PROGRAM OVERVIEW
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Imagine yourself living and studying in a college environment that will push you to become the best version of yourself. Carnegie Mellon's Pre-College Programs offer the same undergraduate experience to high school juniors and seniors, allowing them to explore their passions and interests under the guidance of acclaimed Carnegie Mellon faculty and staff. The program provides a comprehensive student experience that fosters both academic and personal growth inside and outside the classroom, preparing students for their future endeavors. By living and learning in a college setting, you'll be challenged to discover your true potential and emerge as your best self.
Learn from renowned CMU faculty, just like our undergrads.
Be immersed in a highly interdisciplinary environment.
Meet mentors from the residential staff, all of whom are CMU students.
Take a deep dive into a field of study.
Make memories with new friends from across the globe.
Share your passion for learning with like-minded peers.
Get inspired by exciting events on and off-campus.
Explore Pittsburgh's friendly neighborhoods and cultural treasures.
Visit the city's many museums with our Pre-College Arts Pass.
Experience authentic college life that will help you prepare for your future.
High school juniors and seniors.
Opening Day: Saturday, June 22, 2024
Orientation Day: Sunday, June 23, 2024
First Day of Classes: Monday, June 24, 2024
3-Week Program Classes End: Friday, July 12, 2024 (Residential Move-Out: Saturday, July 13)
4-Week Program Classes End: Friday, July 19, 2024 (Residential Move-Out: Saturday, July 20)
5-Week Program Classes End: Friday, July 26, 2024 (Residential Move-Out: Saturday, July 27)
6-Week Program Classes End: Friday, August 2, 2024 (Residential Move-Out: Saturday, August 3)
Please note:
• Opening Day is the primary move-in day for residential students. Early Arrival is approved on an individual basis.
• Orientation Day is required for both residential and commuter students, providing students with important program and campus life information.
• International students arrive on Thursday, June 20, with International Orientation on Friday, June 21.
• ALL residential students must vacate the dorms by 2:00 pm on the Saturday following the close of their program.
Early Decision Applications: February 1, 2024
Scholarship Applications: March 1, 2024
AIS, CSS, and SAMS* Applications: March 1, 2024
Regular Decision Applications: March 1, 2024
Please visit the Admission page for further details.
*AI Scholars (AIS), Computer Science Scholars (CSS), Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)
Please note for APPLICATIONS:
Scholarship applications are NOT considered under the Early Decision deadline. Applications seeking scholarship must follow the Scholarship deadline timeline below.
Applications with AI Scholars, CS Scholars, and/or the Summer Academy for Math and Science as a first, second, and/or third choice selection will NOT be considered under Early Decision and will follow the AI Scholars, CS Scholars, and Summer Academy for Math and Science timeline below.
An Early Decision is not binding as it can be in the undergraduate process. We do, however, encourage applying as early as possible for your best chance at admittance into your program of choice. Some programs fill to capacity prior to the application deadline and may be closed to new applicants.
Please note for SCHOLARSHIP:
Students must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) to be eligible for scholarship consideration.
Scholarship applications are NOT considered for Early Decision or on rolling admission.
Applicants seeking scholarship must follow the Scholarship deadline timeline listed above.
Within the online application, you will be asked to submit a combination of biographical, parent/guardian, and academic information. In addition, you will select up to three programs for application consideration in order of preference. Although second and third choice programs are not required, they are highly recommended.
Please note that as individual programs reach their enrollment and waitlist capacity, they will no longer be available as a program choice. Please apply as early as possible for your best chance at securing a spot in your first, second, or third choice programs.
Additionally, your application will not be considered complete until we receive your Letter(s) of Recommendation. We cannot review your application until these letters have been received by our office. Please plan ahead and request your recommendation letter(s) through our online application process in time for us to receive them by the application deadline.
PLEASE NOTE: If you wish to be considered for Computer Science Scholars, Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS), or AI4All @ Carnegie Mellon, you must select the program as your first choice. These three programs are not offered as second and third choice options.
LETTER(S) OF RECOMMENDATION: Your application will not be considered complete until we receive your Letter(s) of Recommendation. We cannot review your application until these letters have been received by our office.To request your Letter(s) of Recommendation within our online application, you will be required to enter your recommender's email address. Once this is entered, an email will be automatically sent to the recommender. They will be directed to an online portal where they will complete the recommendation form and submit their letter of recommendation.In general, recommendation letters should be submitted by a counselor or teacher who can speak to your readiness to attend a pre-college program that includes college-level work, independent living, and cooperation in group situations.It is important that you plan ahead and request your recommendation letter(s) through our online application process in time for us to receive them by the application deadline.
UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT: Your most recent Unofficial Transcript must be submitted with your online application. Transcripts must include your name and all grades and courses you have completed. Official transcripts (submitted via sealed envelope or directly from the school) are NOT required for our application.
STANDARDIZED TEST SCORES (OPTIONAL): Standardized tests scores are NOT required for application. However, you are welcome to submit your test scores if you feel they will strengthen your application submission. Please note that these test scores will be only one part of our holistic review process. If you choose to submit your Standardized Tests Scores, please upload the test score report of your most recent PSAT, SAT, PreACT or ACT.
ESSAY REQUIREMENTS: Essay requirements vary by program. Please reference the Academic Program pages for more information. Essay prompts will be listed. Responses to the essay prompts should be uploaded through the online application in a PDF or Word format.
SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS (IF APPLICABLE): Depending on your program(s) of interest, supplemental materials (such as a video audition or images of your unique work) may be required to complete your application. Please reference the Academic Program pages for more information
The following is a list of Carnegie's Academic Programs:
AI Scholars
Architecture
Art
Computational Biology
CS Scholars
Design
Drama
Music
National High School Game Academy
Summer Academy for Math and Science
Summer Session
Writing & Culture
*Please check the program's website for accuracy of Academic Programs
EARLY DECISION: February 29, 2024
AI Scholars, CS Scholars, and Summer Academy for Math and Science: April 5, 2024
Regular Applications: April 12, 2024
Scholarship Applications: April 5, 2024