UNITED STATES · PITTSBURGH
Carnegie Mellon University
private · Founded 1900 · Languages: English
In short
Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, renowned for its top-ranked programs in computer science, AI, and engineering. It offers extensive interdisciplinary opportunities and strong career outcomes for its approximately 15,000 students.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1900
- Students
- 12,500
- International students
- 6,000
- Acceptance rate
- 13%
- Tuition (intl)
- €45–52k/yr
- Languages
- ENGLISH
- Location
- Pittsburgh, United States
Carnegie Mellon University is a private R1 research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, founded in 1900 by Andrew Carnegie. It enrolls ~15,000 students across seven schools and colleges, with particular global renown for computer science, robotics, artificial intelligence, and engineering. CMU's seven colleges collaborate across boundaries, producing graduates who consistently rank among the most employable in the world. The university runs 100% on renewable electricity and maintains campuses and research partnerships on six continents.
Why study here
- #1 AI and top-2 computer science programme in the US (US News) — unmatched depth in ML, robotics, and HCI.
- Interdisciplinary culture: joint degrees across arts, engineering, business, and public policy are the norm.
- Outstanding employment outcomes — graduates hired at Google, Meta, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, McKinsey and more.
- Pittsburgh's booming tech and healthcare sectors create rich internship and research opportunities on campus's doorstep.
- Small class sizes, research-active faculty, and direct mentorship from faculty who are world leaders in their fields.
Student life
CMU's Pittsburgh campus is compact and walkable, blending Beaux-Arts architecture with modern research facilities. The Carnegie Museum complex sits adjacent to campus, and the vibrant Squirrel Hill and Oakland neighborhoods offer diverse dining, arts, and nightlife. Over 350 student organisations span everything from the award-winning Drama department to hackathon clubs, consulting groups, and cultural associations. Graduate students in the Robotics Institute describe an open, social culture of frequent lab outings and collaborative problem-solving. The university's NCAA Division III athletics and extensive intramural sports provide balance to a rigorous academic environment.
Fees
InternationalMaster's tuition ranges from approximately $52,300 to $60,900 per academic year (2026-27, programme-dependent).
HomeSame tuition rates apply to domestic and international students at CMU.
LivingEstimated annual living costs in Pittsburgh: housing ~$14,750, food ~$8,700, books & supplies ~$2,200, personal ~$4,100, travel ~$1,800.
Full-time PhD students in most programmes receive full tuition support and a living stipend. Professional Master's students typically pay full tuition. Health insurance cost is determined annually.
Admissions
Application PlatformCommon Application (undergraduate); programme-specific portal (graduate).
Official TranscriptsFrom all previously attended colleges/universities.
Statement of Purpose1–2 pages describing research interests, relevant experience, and objectives.
CV / ResumeRequired in PDF format.
Letters of RecommendationThree letters, at least two from faculty or recent employers.
GRE ScoresStrongly recommended for MSCS; optional or waived for many other programmes.
TOEFLRequired for F-1/J-1 visa applicants whose native language is not English
IELTSAccepted in lieu of TOEFL
Duolingo English TestAccepted in lieu of TOEFL
Rankings
QS World University Rankings52
US News & World Report (National Universities)22
US News Computer Science2
US News Artificial Intelligence1
Times Higher Education World University Rankings28
University scholarships
Rales Fellowship ProgramFull funding for outstanding STEM graduate students
CyberCorps Scholarship for Service (SFS)Full tuition + $34,000 annual stipend for cybersecurity students
PhD Full Funding PackageFull tuition + living stipend (most PhD programmes)
Carnegie Bosch Institute Fellowship2-year postdoctoral fellowship with research budget
Accreditation
Carnegie Mellon University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Engineering programmes are ABET-accredited; business programmes hold AACSB accreditation. CMU is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU).
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionCarnegie Mellon University · United States
2025 Fellows - Carnegie Mellon University
The "2025 Fellows" program at Carnegie Mellon University highlights doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers engaged in cutting-edge innovation and commercialization. These individuals are deeply involved in advanced research across various disciplines, including robotics, artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, electrical and computer engineering, chemistry, materials science, and mechanical engineering. Many fellows are simultaneously developing startups based on their research, aiming to translate academic discoveries into real-world applications and solutions. The program showcases a commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and driving technological advancements from within the university's research community.
PhD
Level
€45k
Tuition
—
Duration
Carnegie Mellon University · United States
Accelerated Master's Programs at the Information Networking Institute (INI)
Carnegie Mellon University's Information Networking Institute (INI) offers a unique opportunity for highly qualified current CMU undergraduate students to accelerate their graduate studies. Through these accelerated programs, you can earn a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in as little as two semesters (one academic year) after completing your bachelor's degree. This pathway allows for a seamless transition from undergraduate to postgraduate work within INI's specialized, interdisciplinary curriculum. The INI's master's programs are designed to provide deep technical knowledge and foster interdisciplinary learning. You will have the flexibility to draw upon coursework and research opportunities from across the university, including the College of Engineering, School of Computer Science, Tepper School of Business, and Heinz College, allowing you to tailor your education to your specific interests. This program is ideal for CMU undergraduates looking to gain advanced expertise in areas such as information networking, security, mobile and IoT engineering, or AI engineering with a focus on security. The INI provides a supportive learning environment with dedicated advising and career services to help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
Master's
Level
€52k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Carnegie Mellon University · United States
Automated Science: Biological Experimentation (MSAS)
The Master of Science in Automated Science: Biological Experimentation (MSAS) at Carnegie Mellon University is a specialized program designed for students interested in the intersection of artificial intelligence and laboratory automation. This program prepares you to become a leader in the rapidly evolving field of automated scientific discovery, particularly within biological experimentation. The curriculum uniquely blends cutting-edge AI techniques with practical laboratory automation, equipping you with the skills to design, conduct, and analyze experiments using automated systems. You will delve into concepts like spectroscopic series, crystal field splitting, electron configurations in complexes, and orbital energy diagrams, all within the context of automated biological and chemical processes. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for roles in industry or for advanced doctoral studies, contributing to the development of new scientific methodologies through automation.
Master's
Level
€52k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Carnegie Mellon University · United States
Bachelor of Computer Science and Arts (BCSA)
The Bachelor of Computer Science and Arts (BCSA) is an intercollege program designed for students who wish to combine rigorous study in computer science with creative work in the fine arts. This program is ideal for those who aim to create the tools and technologies used in artistic expression. It blends academic work from the School of Computer Science (SCS) with creative practice from the College of Fine Arts (CFA). Students will fulfill requirements for general education, a concentration in computer science, and a concentration within one of CFA's schools: Architecture, Art, Design, Drama, or Music. Additional free electives can be used to broaden or deepen study in either the arts or computer science.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Carnegie Mellon University · United States
Dipole Moments
This program explores the experimental determination of molecular dipole moments, a fundamental property influencing how molecules interact with electric fields. You will learn how to measure dipole moments using laboratory experiments based on electrical capacitance. The course covers the theoretical underpinnings, including how capacitance changes when molecules with dipoles are placed between charged plates and how thermal motion affects this alignment. You'll also delve into Peter Debye's clever method for determining dipole moments by analyzing the temperature dependence of measured capacitance, providing a practical application of physical chemistry principles.
Master's
Level
€52k
Tuition
—
Duration
Carnegie Mellon University · United States
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is a research-intensive program designed to equip students with the skills to become independent researchers and contribute groundbreaking solutions to global challenges in areas like health, sustainability, and energy. Students will delve into captivating research at the intersection of technology and society, completing their degree in approximately four to five years. This program prepares graduates for impactful careers in academia, industry, or government research, fostering an environment of collaboration and cross-disciplinary study. Students will work alongside world-renowned faculty, conducting original research that culminates in a substantive Ph.D. thesis.
PhD
Level
€45k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated living costs for international students at Carnegie Mellon University?
+
Estimated annual living costs in Pittsburgh include approximately $14,750 for housing, $8,700 for food, $2,200 for books and supplies, $4,100 for personal expenses, and $1,800 for travel.
What are the tuition fees for Master's programs at Carnegie Mellon University for international students?
+
Master's tuition at Carnegie Mellon University typically ranges from approximately $52,300 to $60,900 per academic year for the 2026-27 cycle, depending on the program. Full-time PhD students in most programs receive full tuition support and a living stipend.
Does Carnegie Mellon University offer scholarships or funding for international students?
+
Yes, Carnegie Mellon University offers several funding opportunities, including the Rales Fellowship Program for STEM graduate students, the CyberCorps Scholarship for Service, and full tuition and living stipends for most PhD programs. The Carnegie Bosch Institute also offers a postdoctoral fellowship.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants whose native language is not English are required to provide scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or the Duolingo English Test. The School of Computer Science does not issue English proficiency waivers for non-native speakers.
What makes Carnegie Mellon University a unique place to study Computer Science and AI?
+
Carnegie Mellon University is ranked #1 in AI and top-2 in Computer Science in the US, offering unmatched depth in machine learning, robotics, and human-computer interaction. Its interdisciplinary culture allows for joint degrees across various fields, and graduates are highly sought after by leading tech and finance companies.
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