# Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy

Game design and programming intensive at CMU. Learn game development from CMU faculty.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Carnegie Mellon University |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | $6,500 |
| Deadline | 2027-03-01 |
| Eligibility | Grades 10–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Pittsburgh, PA |
| Apply | https://www.cmu.edu/pre-college/academic-programs/game-academy.html |

## About this program

The **Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy** is a pre-college program for students interested in the full process of game development, from initial concept to playable prototype. Taught by **Carnegie Mellon University** faculty and industry-experienced instructors, the program combines **game design, programming, art, and sound** to help students understand how multidisciplinary teams create interactive experiences. Participants typically work in small teams to build original games, gaining exposure to tools and workflows used in professional and academic settings.

This program is well suited for high school students who:
- Enjoy **coding**, **digital art**, **game design**, or **interactive storytelling**
- Are considering college majors in **computer science**, **game design**, **human-computer interaction**, or related STEM fields  
- Want structured, project-based experience to explore whether game development is a good fit

Students leave with completed projects that can strengthen **college applications** and portfolios, especially for programs in computing, interactive media, or design. In addition to technical and creative skills, participants gain experience in **teamwork**, **iteration**, and **problem-solving** under deadlines—skills that admissions offices and future teachers value. The program also offers a preview of academic expectations at a research university and insight into potential career paths in games and interactive media. For current details on curriculum, eligibility, and application requirements, visit the program website.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy cost?

Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy costs $6,500. Many paid programs offer need-based financial aid or fee waivers — check the official site before ruling it out.

### What is the application deadline for Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy?

The application deadline is March 1, 2027. Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy?

Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy is open to high school students in grades 10–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy online or in person?

Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy is an in-person program based in Pittsburgh, PA.

### How do I apply to Carnegie Mellon National High School Game Academy?

Apply directly through Carnegie Mellon University's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-05.
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