If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering whether or not your child has a shot at getting into the University of Pittsburgh. While there’s no copy-and-paste format for a successful application to the University of Pittsburgh (or to any school, for that matter), we’re going to dive into some of the features that unite the students who gain admission to the University of Pittsburgh. But first, let’s look at what sets the University of Pittsburgh apart from other schools.

About the University of Pittsburgh

Pitt (not to be confused with the HBO show The Pitt, even if the two share a city) is a large public research university. It’s in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh, the academic and healthcare center right along the Monongahela River. The University of Pittsburgh has over 25,000 undergraduates, meaning it’s large but not quite as mammoth as Big Ten schools, so you won’t have to worry about your son or daughter slipping through the cracks. The University of Pittsburgh houses the Cathedral of Learning, the tallest educational building in the Western Hemisphere and the second-tallest university building in the world. 

The University of Pittsburgh’s acceptance rate is 58%, meaning it’s a great choice for families looking for a less competitive but still well-resourced university to send their kid to. 

The University of Pittsburgh Admissions Requirements

Obviously, GPA, standardized testing scores, and extracurricular achievements are the key components of a successful application to the University of Pittsburgh  and to any school. That being said, what do these components actually look like for Pitt admits? Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Kind of GPA Is Necessary To Get Into the University of Pittsburgh?

We at Ivy Coach have gathered the numbers for Pittsburgh’s most recently admitted class. The following is the GPA breakdown of the members of the University of Pittsburgh Class of 2029:

GPA	Percentage of University of Pittsburgh Class of 2029
4.0	61%
3.75-3.99	20%
3.5-3.74	12%
3.25-3.49	5%
3.0-3.24	1%
2.5-2.99	1%
2.0-2.49	0%
1.0-1.99	0%

What Kind of SAT or ACT Scores Are Needed To Get Into the University of Pittsburgh?  

The average SAT score for the University of Pittsburgh Class of 2029 was a 1480, and the average ACT score was a 34. These scores look so high because Pitt is test-optional and only 44% of applicants submitted scores. Even with that in mind, we at Ivy Coach believe that not submitting test scores can only ever hurt an applicant’s chances, even to supposedly test-optional schools. 

What Classes Do Students Need to Take to Get Into UPitt?

The University of Pittsburgh lists the following as their minimum academic requirements to be considered for admission:

• 4 years English
• 3 years Math
• 3 years Science
• 2 years Social Science
• 2 years foreign language
• 3 years elective courses

Of course, we at Ivy Coach would never recommend merely three years of preparation in any subject. We know that schools like Pitt want to see students excelling in each core subject (English, history, math, science, and foreign language) all four years of high school. In fact, they expect to see five years for foreign language since most students begin their first level of foreign language in eighth grade.

What Kinds of Extracurriculars Does the University of Pittsburgh Like To See?

We’re going to clear up a common misunderstanding: highly selective colleges are not looking for well-rounded students. They’re looking for a well-rounded student body comprised of students who are each singularly talented. 

In terms of extracurriculars, that means the University of Pittsburgh is looking for depth over breadth. If you’re a member of the debate team, the robotics team, the field hockey team, and the drama department…well, then, you’re merely a member of those groups. You don’t stand out in any of these pursuits. Pitt would much rather accept a nationally ranked debate champ than a kid who spent an hour or two on debate a week because he spent the rest forgetting Shakespeare lines and fumbling the ball in football practice. 

The University of Pittsburgh Application Requirements

The University of Pittsburgh accepts the Common App. They do not consider letters of recommendation in their review process, nor do they ask any supplemental questions. 

Does UPitt Require an Interview? 

The University of Pittsburgh does not require an interview, and, in fact, they don’t even offer one!

What Are UPitt’s Application Deadlines? 

Applications to the University of Pittsburgh are considered on a rolling basis, but Pitt recommends applying by December 15th. 

How Ivy Coach Helps Students Get Into the University of Pittsburgh 

If you’re interested in discerning if your child has a shot of getting into the University of Pittsburgh, we recommend setting up Ivy Coach’s Strategy Session. Not only will you find out if your child has a chance of getting into Pitt, but you’ll receive a game plan of how your child can optimize their admission to the best school possible.