Is it worth a shot?

JBStillFlying
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 12:25:13 +0000

@helpless2017 so assuming that your friends had similar ACT/SAT scores to yours, you then know that 800’s will help you get into CMU. Not exactly surprising and it doesn’t mean that NOT having 800’s won’t get you in. It’s a bit frustrating not knowing whether CMU has a subject test score cutoff (we are facing the same question for Tepper/Deitrich) but you can take some comfort in the knowledge that College Board hasn’t modified the score scales to delineate well between a 750 and an 800 for any of the subject tests - especially the STEM tests. Also, as a LOT of applicants have super high test scores and GPA’s, CMU will look closely at everyone’s EC’s and maker portfolios. They also like to see demonstrated interest so try to get out there for a visit or attend a CMU session in your area.

Obviously you should apply because you have a decent chance of being admitted to one of their colleges. The supplemental essays aren’t a big deal and you’ll probably have to do a common app. essay anyway so it’s really not much extra work. RD makes total sense as ED is highly restrictive (can only choose one college, financial aid is awful, etc.) so hopefully they won’t ding you for waiting. Have a backup college (look into Tepper and MCS, for instance) and have backup schools on hand as well in case you don’t get into CMU.

Good luck to you!