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Quick Answer
The Carnegie Mellon Tepper MBA class profile summarizes the academic and professional makeup of the latest incoming Tepper MBA cohort, including GMAT and GRE scores, GPA, work experience, demographics, and class size.
Use it to benchmark your competitiveness, understand what “typical” looks like for admitted students, and pinpoint practical ways to strengthen your application if your stats fall below the class averages.
In this guide, we’ll review the significance of this data and discuss how you can strengthen your candidacy for the Tepper MBA program.
Here are the topics we’ll cover:
- Tepper MBA Class Profile at a Glance
- Tepper MBA GMAT and GRE Scores and How to Interpret Them
- Tepper MBA GPA: Academic Background and What Tepper Looks For
- Tepper MBA Work Experience: Industries and Functions Represented
- Tepper MBA Class Size and Demographics
- How to Think About “Fit”
- Tepper Rankings: How Much Should They Influence Your Decision?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What’s Next?
Tepper MBA Class Profile at a Glance
To start, let’s take a look at key stats within the Carnegie Mellon University Tepper MBA Class Profile:
| Metric | Tepper MBA Class Profile |
|---|---|
| Tepper MBA Class Size | 144 |
| GPA: Average, Median, and Middle 80% | 3.33; 3.38; 2.80–3.79 |
| GMAT (10th Edition): Average, Median, and Middle 80% | 707; 710; 700–740 |
| GMAT (Focus Edition): Average, Median, and Middle 80% | 659; 655; 595–715 |
| GRE Quant: Average, Median, and Middle 80% | 163; 164; 156–170 |
| GRE Verbal: Average, Median, and Middle 80% | 159; 159; 152–166 |
| EA: Average, Median, and Middle 80% | 155; 156; 152–158 |
| Work Experience: Average, Median, and Middle 80% | 5.2; 5; 2.7–8.5 |
| Average Age and Middle 80% Range | 29; 25–33 |
| International Citizens | 38% |
| Countries Represented | 21 |
| Military and Veterans | 14% |
| Undergraduate Majors | Engineering: 41% Business/Commerce: 23% Other: 9% Economics: 10% Arts/Humanities: 6% Math/Physical Science: 6% Social Sciences: 5% |
| Pre-MBA Industries | Technology/New Media: 18.98% Financial Services: 16.06% Consulting: 13.87% Government: 11.68% Other: 11.68% Healthcare: 10.22% Manufacturing: 7.3% Consumer Goods and Retail: 2.92% Energy & Clean Tech: 1.46% Consumer Products: 0.73% |
The Tepper MBA class size of 144 students is one of the smallest among top MBA programs. However, this smaller cohort fosters close collaboration, personalized attention, and tight-knit student networks.
KEY FACT:
Tepper’s class size is among the smallest of top MBA programs, but its alumni network has 15,000 grads across the globe.
Tepper MBA GMAT and GRE Scores and How to Interpret Them
The Tepper average GMAT for the class of 2027 is 707 (10th Edition) and 659 (Focus Edition). These average scores are competitive with other similarly ranked top MBA programs.
However, we recommend also taking a look at the middle 80% ranges. For the GMAT (10th Edition), the middle 80% range was 700–740. Additionally, for the GMAT (Focus Edition), the middle 80% range was 595–715.
For the GRE, the Tepper MBA average GRE scores are 163 in the Quant section and 159 in the Verbal section. Further, the middle 80% ranges were 156–170 (Quant) and 152–166 (Verbal). Notably, the strong Quant averages reflect the level of quantitative rigor in Tepper’s MBA program.
Note that Tepper also accepts the Executive Assessment. For the class of 2027, the average EA score was 155, with a middle 80% range of 152–158.
KEY FACT:
Tepper’s strong quant averages signal the level of quantitative rigor in the program.
GMAT vs. GRE for the Tepper MBA
Tepper accepts the GMAT (both editions), the GRE, and the EA, and the admissions team does not have a preference for which test scores you submit. Therefore, we recommend choosing the test that plays to your strengths.
If you’re deciding between the GMAT and the GRE, consider your background. Specifically, candidates with strong verbal scores and less recent quant coursework sometimes prefer the GRE. Alternatively, candidates who are comfortable with Integrated Reasoning and Data Sufficiency may lean toward the GMAT.
Regardless of which test you take, aim to be within the 80% range. However, that alone won’t guarantee admission. To strengthen your candidacy, try to achieve a score at or above the current Tepper MBA Average GMAT or Tepper MBA Average GRE.
If your GMAT is below 700 or your GRE quant is below 156, consider retaking the test. Unfortunately, a low quant score raises questions about your readiness for Tepper’s quant-focused MBA curriculum. For context on how Tepper’s GMAT averages compare to other top programs, check out our guide on GMAT scores for top business schools.
TTP PRO TIP:
Applicants with a GMAT score under 700 or a GRE Quant score below 156 may benefit from retaking the test.
Tepper MBA GPA: Academic Background and What Tepper Looks For
The Tepper School of Business GPA averages 3.33 for the class of 2027, with a median of 3.38 and a middle 80% range of 3.79. Consequently, Tepper admits candidates across a broad spectrum of undergraduate academic performance.
If your GPA is below the average, you won’t automatically be dinged. However, you’ll need to demonstrate your academic readiness in other ways. For example, you could submit a strong GMAT or GRE quant score.
Additionally, you could submit a transcript from supplemental coursework in quant-focused courses, such as statistics, economics, accounting, or finance. Finally, if your career demands quant capabilities, be sure to emphasize the quant-oriented work in your resume and relevant areas of the Tepper application.
Keep in mind that Tepper’s class features students from all types of academic backgrounds, such as engineering and economics, alongside the arts and social sciences. While this diversity of perspectives enriches the cohort, it’s critical that all students can handle the quant rigor of the program.
If you’re applying from a nontraditional academic background, consider supplementing your transcript with quant-focused coursework.
To learn more about how top programs such as Tepper evaluate academic credentials, check out our guide on MBA application requirements.
TTP PRO TIP:
Candidates with nontraditional academic experience may want to consider demonstrating readiness through additional quant coursework.
Tepper MBA Work Experience: Industries and Functions Represented
For Tepper’s class of 2027, the average work experience is 5.2 years, with a median of 5 years and a middle 80% range of 2.7–8.5 years. Interestingly, only 2.7% of the class had less than 1 year of work experience upon matriculation.
According to the CMU Tepper MBA class profile, students from the class of 2027 came from the following industries:
- Technology/New Media: 18.98%
- Financial Services: 16.06%
- Consulting: 13.87%
- Government: 11.68%
- Other: 11.68%
- Healthcare: 10.22%
- Manufacturing: 7.3%
- Consumer Goods and Retail: 2.92%
- Energy & Clean Tech: 1.46%
- Consumer Products: 0.73%
Notably, Tepper has strong networks within tech and engineering. So, if your post-MBA goals align with these industries, the Tepper MBA might be a strong fit.
However, Tepper students come from a range of backgrounds, as illustrated in the class profile. Additionally, Tepper MBA grads pursue roles in a number of industries and functions, which we’ll cover later in this post.
KEY FACT:
Tepper students come from a range of backgrounds and pursue roles in numerous industries and functions.
Tepper MBA Class Size and Demographics
The Tepper MBA class size of 144 students is much smaller than that of many top MBA programs. For example, Kellogg’s class of 2027 has 534 students, whereas Wharton’s class has 888 students.
However, Tepper’s peer MBA programs have similar enrollments. For example, Cornell Johnson’s class of 2027 is on the small side, with 276 students. Additionally, McCombs enrolled 235 students in its class of 2027. Also, Emory Goizueta enrolled 128 students in its most recent class.
Tepper’s smaller cohort means that you’ll get to know each of your classmates personally. Additionally, you can develop closer relationships with faculty.
In terms of demographics, the Carnegie Mellon Tepper MBA class profile shows 38% international students from 21 countries across 6 continents.
Additionally, among U.S. citizens, the demographic breakdown is as follows: 37% White, 29% Asian, 19% Hispanic or Latino, 9% Black or African American, 1% Two or More Races, and 6% unknown/not reported.
Notably, U.S. military and veterans account for 14% of the class. Also, the average age of Tepper’s class of 2027 is 29 (upon enrollment).
TTP PRO TIP:
Tepper’s smaller cohort allows students to build close relationships with both classmates and faculty.
How to Think About “Fit”
Tepper values candidates who have demonstrated academic readiness, leadership, collaboration, analytical capabilities, and community engagement. If you’re someone who seeks a small class size, an intimate environment, and an opportunity to sharpen your analytical capabilities, Tepper could be a strong fit.
You can demonstrate your fit for Tepper in one of your application essays and in your admissions interview.
If you’re someone who seeks a small class size, an intimate environment, and an opportunity to sharpen your analytical capabilities, Tepper could be a strong fit.
Tepper Rankings: How Much Should They Influence Your Decision?
The Carnegie Mellon MBA ranking typically places Tepper in the top 20 of U.S. MBA programs and among the top programs in the world. Historically, the Tepper School of Business ranking has been strong in areas such as analytics and tech management, which reflects the broader strengths of CMU.
While the CMU Tepper ranking provides useful context, rankings should not be the sole driver of your application decision. Additionally, rankings and methodologies change annually. Instead, it’s better to determine whether a program such as Tepper can deliver an MBA education and environment that will help you reach your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a CMU Tepper MBA worth it?
It depends on your career goals, financial situation, and what you’re looking for in an MBA experience. For example, if you’re seeking a career in tech, data analytics, or consulting, Tepper could be an excellent choice.
Tepper’s strengths in quant methods, combined with CMU’s renowned expertise in computer science and engineering, make the program a draw for candidates pursuing tech and related careers. Additionally, Pittsburgh’s tech ecosystem provides an added benefit.
From a financial perspective, weigh the total cost of attendance (including tuition, living expenses, and opportunity cost) against your expected post-MBA salary increases and the incremental value over your career. If your post-MBA goals align with Tepper’s strengths and the program’s offerings and culture fit what you’re looking for, the ROI can be very strong.
Is CMU Tepper a good MBA program?
Yes — Tepper is consistently ranked among the top 20 MBA programs in the U.S. Specifically, Tepper is a strong choice for candidates who are looking for a program with analytical rigor and strong networks in tech and consulting.
Additionally, Tepper’s proximity to other departments within Carnegie Mellon University gives MBA students access to world-class resources in computer science, robotics, AI, machine learning, and data science. For candidates focused in these areas, the program might be unmatched.
Importantly, “good” is relative to your goals. If you’re targeting post-MBA roles in areas such as investment banking, luxury brand management, or the entertainment industry, other programs might be better choices.
How hard is it to get into the Tepper MBA program?
While the Carnegie Mellon MBA acceptance rate is competitive, Tepper is not as selective as programs such as Harvard, Stanford, or Wharton.
The CMU Tepper acceptance rate ranges between 20% and 30%. In other words, roughly 1 in 4 or 5 applicants is admitted to the program.
To be competitive for Tepper, aim for a GMAT score of 659 or higher (Focus Edition), a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and 3–8 years of work experience. Additionally, be prepared to showcase your quant capabilities in your test scores, undergrad record, or supplementary coursework.
For more context, check out our guide on MBA acceptance rates and yield rates of top business schools.
How much does a Tepper MBA cost?
The total cost of a Tepper MBA depends on the current tuition rates, your living situation, and your personal spending habits. For the 2025-26 academic year, tuition costs were roughly $81,000 for the year.
Thankfully, Pittsburgh offers affordable housing options. So, your living and other expenses could average $10,000 per year — not nearly as expensive as major city living.
Finally, factor in the potential to earn merit-based scholarships, which can range from partial tuition coverage to full tuition awards. Additionally, student loans can help close the gaps.
What’s Next?
Learning about the Tepper School of Business Class Profile is an important first step in the application process. However, it’s up to you to build a strong candidacy from here.
If Tepper’s MBA program is among your top choices and you’d like to maximize your chances for admission, we can help! Book a free consultation with one of TTP’s MBA admissions experts.
