I can’t find the early decision acceptance rate for Carnegie Mellon in computer science anywhere; is it even available? If not, could someone tell me how beneficial would it be to early decision carnegie mellon for computer science?
Thanks!
Perhaps repost here? http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/carnegie-mellon-university/
Let’s just move this
Thanks for moving it. I am quite new to college confidential so I am still learning where to post threads.
Anyways, BUMP. I know CMU values interest a lot, so would applying early decision make a big difference?
Any feedback would be appreciated!
@Punisher1998 It definitely would. And the acceptance rate for SCS last year was around 5%. I’m not sure about this year. However, SCS tends to favor mathematical ability above all else. You do not have to know an ounce of code, but you have to be good at math to get in. CMU is one of a very few schools that ask for AMC and AIME scores. People in SCS have an average of a 6 on AIME which is pretty good. A lot of my friends that currently attend SCS and got in SCS this year are all good at math. They mostly showed their mathematical ability through math competitions (county, state, national, and international levels). They like kids who are good at number theory and abstract mathematics, which requires one to critically think. High scores (mostly 800’s) on SAT1 and subjects tests are expected because the nature of the sheer amount of people who get perfect scores on these tests and how robotic they are. Of course, there are exceptions that get into the school, but, still, it is arguably the best CS school in the world.
Oh, thanks for the information! Do you know if they require AMC and AIME scores? I don’t participate in any competitions or anything, but I will be taking Multivariable, Discrete Math, and Linear Algebra my senior year. I also received a 790 on the Math 2 SAT subject test. Would that be enough to show Carnegie Mellon I am good at math, but just not on the competing level?
Will the many computer science courses I have taken help me get in? How much do they value science courses and science competitions (Siemens) when they consider applicants for computer science?
No, AMC and AIME scores are not required. The classes will sure help and I am hesitant to say a 790 on Math Level 2 shows you are good at math compared to other because a high percentage of kids get 800’s and the sheer caliber of students applying to CMU. Did you place in Siemens or Intel? Having research experience is definitely a plus and of course computer science courses will help you. Will it make you get in? I am not sure. But everyone you stated will help you. Do whatever you can control to improve your application.
I am planning to retake the SAT Math 2 exam may. Additionally, I am currently a junior and during this coming summer, I will work under a Post Doctoral student in Stanford and help her do research. For Siemens, I was saying if hypothetically (but hopefully) I were to place semi-finalist, how much would it help? What other specific aspects does Carnegie Mellon SCS look for?
Really appreciate the responses XAtlas! Thanks!
I do not think u necessarily need to retake the exam for a 790 to a 800 but just in case i guess. And placing in Siemens would definitely help you for every college u apply to. I am not sure how much weight SCS would put into it but it would definitely help you. However, the entire school itself is very math oriented, so if you can do something math related it would help.
Since you’re thinking about applying Early Decision to CMU, it’s good that you’ve established your interest early on. CMU is one of the schools that track how much interest you’ve placed in it (i.e college visits, interviews) and considers applicant interest “strongly” according to their Common Data Sheets.
You’re on the right track! Best wishes 
Thanks for your insight and suggestions guys!