How to Send SAT Scores to Carnegie Mellon University? A Complete Roadmap with IvyStrides
- Hemant Attray
- Oct 22
- 8 min read
Whether it’s autonomous cars rolling out of the Robotics Institute or machine learning models written in dorm rooms, Carnegie Mellon University doesn’t just admit students; it cultivates inventors, coders, problem-solvers, artists, and analytical thinkers. Each college under its umbrella, from SCS to CFA, has a distinct personality, but all expect one thing: sharp, prepared applicants who can back their ambition with numbers, stories, and structure.
And yes, that includes your SAT scores.
At IvyStrides, we work with students who have their eyes set on CMU for all the right reasons: world-class faculty, deep research access, small-batch innovation labs, and a level of academic intensity that doesn’t leave room for guesswork, not even when it comes to sending test scores. In a process this competitive, how you send your SAT scores can work for you or quietly hold you back.
This blog is your complete roadmap. We’re going to walk you through how to send your SAT scores to Carnegie Mellon University, not just the “where to click” but the timing, the codes, the policies, and the fundamental strategy behind it all. You’ll see how CMU evaluates your results, when to send them (and when not to), and how to make sure your scores get read the way they’re meant to.
Book a 1-on-1 consultation with an IvyStride mentor today!
Understanding Carnegie Mellon’s SAT Score Policy (2026–27 Admissions)
Carnegie Mellon takes a precise view of test scores. If you're applying to Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or Business, submitting official SAT or ACT scores is not just encouraged, it’s expected. These programs are highly competitive, and test results are one of several key signals used in admission decisions.
For other schools like Design or Humanities & Arts, SAT scores are still accepted and can strengthen your application, but they’re not mandatory for all applicants. As of the 2026-27 cycle, most CMU programs lean toward required testing, especially for students applying from U.S. high schools.
CMU does not accept self-reported scores for final review. You must send your scores officially through the College Board.
Does Carnegie Mellon Superscore the SAT?
Yes. CMU will take your highest section scores from multiple SAT dates to calculate your best combined result. For example, if you scored 750 in Math in April and 730 in Reading/Writing in June, CMU will consider those two as your best set.
However, superscoring applies only within the same format. If you’ve taken both the paper-based and digital SAT, the scores can’t be mixed. Superscores are format-specific.
Does CMU Use Score Choice?
Yes, Carnegie Mellon participates in Score Choice, so you can decide which test dates to send, but they also recommend sending all scores if possible.
At IvyStrides, we help our students decide what to send and when, based on what reflects them best and what CMU will see as momentum.
Step-by-Step: How to Send Your SAT Scores to Carnegie Mellon
Once you’ve taken the SAT and reviewed your scores, the next step is to make sure they get to CMU the right way, officially, directly, and on time.
Here’s precisely how to do it:
Step 1 - Sign In to Your College Board Account
Go to collegeboard.org and log in to the account you used to register for the SAT.
Step 2 - Go to ‘Send Scores’
Click on your SAT dashboard, then select ‘Send Your Scores’ from the available options.
Step 3 - Find Carnegie Mellon Using Code 2074
Type Carnegie Mellon University into the search bar or enter the official SAT code: 2074.
Make sure you select the correct campus in Pittsburgh, PA.
Step 4 - Choose the Test Date(s)
Pick which SAT scores to send. If you’ve taken the SAT more than once, decide whether to send all scores or only your highest set.
(Remember, CMU superscores, so more than one date can help.)
Step 5 - Select the Delivery Type
You get four free score reports if you choose them at registration or shortly after the test. If not, you’ll pay a small fee per report.
Need faster delivery? Choose Rush Reporting (additional cost), and your scores will be sent within 1–2 days.
Step 6 - Review and Confirm
Double-check everything: college name, code, test dates. Then submit.
Don’t wait until your deadline. Order your score report at least 3 weeks before your application is due, especially if you're not using rush delivery.
Deadlines and Timing: Plan Your Score Submission Strategically
Getting your scores to Carnegie Mellon on time isn’t just about clicking “send.” It’s about knowing when to test, which dates CMU accepts, and how long delivery takes.
Early Decision Applicants
If you’re applying Early Decision, aim to complete the SAT by October of your senior year.
Last recommended SAT date: October 2026
Send scores no later than: Mid-November 2026
Application deadline: Typically November 1 (confirm with CMU Admissions)
Use rush reporting if you're testing close to the deadline.
Regular Decision Applicants
For Regular Decision, you have a bit more time, but not much.
Last acceptable SAT date: December 2026
Send scores by: Early January 2027
Application deadline: January 3–5 (confirm year to year)
Why the Buffer Matters
Standard score reports can take 7–14 days to reach CMU once submitted. Delays during high-volume months (Oct–Jan) are common.That’s why we always advise our IvyStrides students that if you're applying to a program that expects SAT scores (like SCS or Tepper), take your final SAT no later than October. Use December only if you're retesting to bump a section score and be ready to rush it.
Retaking the SAT: Is It Worth It for CMU?
For most of our students applying to SCS, Engineering, or Tepper, the answer is yes.
If you're sitting in the 1400–1500 range, even a small bump in one section could improve your superscore and push you past a program cutoff.
We’ll help you build a retake timeline that makes sense for CMU’s review process, not just the College Board calendar.
Our common app essay coaching program helps students shape authentic stories that stand out in the most competitive pools, especially at places like CMU.
Troubleshooting: What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
Even with planning, score reports don’t always move smoothly. At IvyStrides, we’ve seen students stress when their SAT scores don’t appear in their CMU application portal right away. The good news? Most issues have simple fixes.
Problem 1: Wrong College Code Used
Carnegie Mellon’s SAT code is 2074. If you typed the wrong code, your scores won’t reach the admissions office.
Solution: Log back into College Board and resend your scores to the correct code. Rush delivery can help if deadlines are near.
Problem 2: SAT Score Report Delays
Standard reports usually take 7–14 days. During busy months (October–January), it can take longer.
Solution: Always order early. If you’re close to the deadline, choose Rush Reporting to cut the wait down to 1–2 days.
Problem 3: Scores Missing from CMU Portal
Sometimes, your College Board account will show “delivered,” but the CMU portal hasn’t updated yet.
Solution: Contact Carnegie Mellon Admissions directly. Confirm that they’ve received your scores and link them to your application file.
Problem 4: Need to Resend Scores
If you canceled a report or need to add a test date, you can resend scores anytime from your College Board account.
Tip: Keep a record of every submission (confirmation email, payment receipt), as it makes follow-ups easier.
Don’t panic if something seems off. These issues happen often, and admissions offices are used to it. The key is to act quickly, keep proof of submission, and if necessary, get on the phone with either the College Board or CMU.
Preparing for Carnegie Mellon the IvyStrides Way
At IvyStrides, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all prep. Every student aiming at Carnegie Mellon needs a plan that respects their strengths, their timeline, and CMU’s specific expectations.
Here’s how we guide our students:
Phase 1 - SAT Readiness
We begin with a diagnostic test. This test shows us your baseline and helps set a clear target. For CMU’s most selective programs, that usually means working toward the 1480–1550 range.
We don’t just look at the total score; we check whether your Math and Reading/Writing balance fits your intended program.
Phase 2 - Score Strategy and Superscore Simulation
With CMU’s superscoring policy, you don’t need perfection in one sitting. We build a plan around sectional improvement:
Mock tests every few weeks to track gains
Section drills where you’re weaker
Superscore simulations that show how multiple attempts can combine into your best set
You’ll know exactly when to try again, and why.
Phase 3 - Score Submission Plan
Once your scores are ready, we map out the submission calendar:
Which test dates to send
When to order standard vs. rush reports
How to avoid last-minute stress before deadlines
By the time you hit “submit” on College Board, everything feels deliberate because it is.
Why Families Choose IvyStrides
We’ve coached students from Texas to California, and from Bengaluru to Boston, who’ve turned SAT preparation into CMU admission letters. What sets us apart?
Personalized prep - tailored strategies, not generic drills
Real-time performance tracking - see exactly where you’re gaining
Mentorship - guidance from experts who know CMU’s standards inside out
With us, your SAT prep isn’t just practice. It’s preparation with purpose.
Final Checklist: Sending Your SAT Scores to Carnegie Mellon
Before you hit submit, pause for a moment. Did you cover everything? Here’s a quick rundown:
Took the SAT and reviewed your scores
Choose the correct test dates to send
Entered Carnegie Mellon’s SAT code: 2074
Ordered reports through your College Board account
Allowed enough time for delivery (or used rush if close to the deadline)
Verified that scores appear in your CMU applicant portal
If each box is checked, your scores are on their way.
Take the Next Step Toward CMU with IvyStrides
Sending scores is essential. Building scores that open doors is even more critical. At IvyStrides, we don’t just prepare students for the SAT; we design CMU-focused strategies that pair the right test plan with the right submission timing. With us, you don’t guess; you stride forward with a clear, structured roadmap.
Ready to turn your CMU goal into an absolute acceptance? Join our SAT fall batch designed for ambitious CMU applicants.
FAQs: Sending SAT Scores to Carnegie Mellon
Can I send SAT scores to CMU after submitting my application?
Yes. Carnegie Mellon will accept scores that arrive shortly after the application deadline, but they must be in before files are reviewed. Send them early to avoid delays.
Does Carnegie Mellon accept ACT scores?
Yes. CMU accepts ACT in place of the SAT. The ACT code for CMU is 3534. The university considers your highest composite score from a single test date.
How can international students send SAT scores to CMU?
International students use the same College Board process. The difference is timing: allow extra days for processing since some international score sends can take longer to post.
What is the cost of sending SAT scores to CMU?
After your four free score reports, each additional report costs around $14 (as of 2026). Rush reporting adds an extra fee.
Can I cancel an SAT score send if I change my mind?
Yes, but only if the order hasn’t been processed. Once the College Board has sent the score, it cannot be withdrawn.
How do I confirm CMU has received my scores?
Check your Carnegie Mellon applicant portal. If scores aren’t showing, contact the admissions office with your College Board confirmation.
Still have questions? Contact us