Carnegie Mellon University

Essay prompts (3)

1. academic interest2026-27300 words

   Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that's developed over time — what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study?

   This is the 2025-26 wording, carried over: Carnegie Mellon University has not republished this prompt for 2026-27 yet. Schools usually post updates around the Common App opening on August 1; we re-check after that and change this text only against an official source.

   source

2. short answer2026-27300 words

   Many students pursue college for a specific degree, career opportunity or personal goal. Whichever it may be, learning will be critical to achieve your ultimate goal. As you think ahead to the process of learning during your college years, how will you define a successful college experience?

   This is the 2025-26 wording, carried over: Carnegie Mellon University has not republished this prompt for 2026-27 yet. Schools usually post updates around the Common App opening on August 1; we re-check after that and change this text only against an official source.

   source

3. short answer2026-27300 words

   Consider your application as a whole. What do you personally want to emphasize about your application for the admission committee's consideration? Highlight something that's important to you or something you haven't had a chance to share. Tell us, don't show us (no websites please).

   This is the 2025-26 wording, carried over: Carnegie Mellon University has not republished this prompt for 2026-27 yet. Schools usually post updates around the Common App opening on August 1; we re-check after that and change this text only against an official source.

   source

CMU says AI should never replace an applicant's unique voice, experiences and personal expression and, if used at all, should only serve as a supplementary tool to enhance writing (e.g., grammar and spelling checks, suggested structural or vocabulary improvements). Applicants are cautioned about the risk of unintentional plagiarism and expected to submit genuine, authentic application materials.

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