Class of 2026: Top 10 CS Universities In the US

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in computer science at a top U.S. university is the start of an exciting journey where curiosity meets innovation and ambition fuels impact. With access to leading research, expert faculty, and strong industry connections, students are empowered to shape the future of technology. Whether you aim to solve global challenges or build the next big tech company—like Steve Wozniak (UC Berkeley) or Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin (Stanford)—this path offers the foundation to turn bold ideas into reality.

To stand out in the highly competitive admissions process for top computer science programs, students should focus on building a strong, well-rounded profile. Here are key tips to enhance your application:

• Excel Academically: Maintain a high GPA (3.7-4.0 unweighted) with a focus on rigorous math and science courses, such as AP/IB Calculus, Physics, and Computer Science. Top universities prioritize students who challenge themselves with advanced coursework.

• Standardized Tests: Although many universities have made SAT/ACT scores optional, strong scores (e.g., 1450+ SAT or 32+ ACT) can bolster your application, especially for mandatory test schools like MIT or Georgia Tech. If submitting scores, aim for the 75th percentile of admitted students.

• Showcase Passion Through Extracurriculars: Participate in CS-related activities such as coding clubs, hackathons, robotics teams, or app development projects. Leadership roles in these activities demonstrate initiative and teamwork. For example, creating a mobile app or contributing to open-source projects can highlight your technical skills.

• Pursue Research and Internships: Seek opportunities to conduct research under a mentor or intern at tech companies, startups, or university labs. These experiences show your ability to apply CS concepts in real-world settings and can lead to strong recommendation letters.

• Craft Compelling Essays: Write authentic essays that reflect your passion for computer science and your unique story. For instance, describe how a personal project (e.g., building a website) sparked your interest in CS or how you aim to use technology to solve societal problems.

• Secure Strong Recommendations: Request letters from teachers (especially in math or science) or mentors who can speak to your academic abilities and CS-related achievements. Provide them with specific examples of your work to make their letters impactful.

• Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your coding projects, such as websites, games, or algorithms, hosted on platforms like GitHub. This demonstrates your technical proficiency and dedication to the field.

• Leverage Location: If possible, choose a university near tech hubs like Silicon Valley (Stanford, UC Berkeley) or Seattle (University of Washington) for better access to internships and networking opportunities.

• Demonstrate Impact: Highlight activities where you’ve made a difference, such as teaching coding to younger students or developing a tool to address a community need. Universities value applicants who use CS for positive impact.

  
  

This table talks about top CS universities with the entry level salaries and companies that hire these graduates. Let’s delve deeper into the world of CS universities.

US News Ranking	University Name	Acceptance Rate	SAT/ACT  Scores	Entry Level Salary (Payscale)	Hiring Companies
1	Stanford University	4%	Test Required	$138,100	Goldman Sachs, Microsoft, Google, Oracle, Space, Lockheed Martin
2	Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)	11%	Test Optional	$129,900	Accenture, Adobe, Amazon, Apple, Deloitte, Deutsche Bank, Salesforce, Spotify
2	MIT	5%	Test Required	$118,000	Google, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, McKinsey, BCG
2	UC Berkeley	12%	Test Blind	$136,200	Google, Apple, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft
5	Princeton University	4%	Test Optional	$135,500	Microsoft, Google, Facebook, Schlumberger, Merck, Boeing, Lockheed-Martin, Intel, Space X, Tesla, Ford
5	UIUC	44%	Test Optional	$105,900	Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, Meta, IBM, Tesla, Cisco, Dropbox, NetApp, Adobe
7	Cornell University	8%	Test Required	$116,900	Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Apple, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase
7	Georgia Tech	16%	Test Required	$109,400	Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Facebook, NVIDIA, Coca-Cola
7	University of Washington	43%	Test Optional	$105,600	Amazon Microsoft Google, Inc. SpaceX Apple Inc. Databricks
10	California Institute of Technology (CalTech)	3%	Test Required	$116,200	Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Intel, and Apple, Meta, IBM

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in computer science at one of the top U.S. universities opens doors to a world of innovation, research, and career opportunities in the ever-evolving tech industry. By building a strong academic foundation, engaging in meaningful extracurriculars, and crafting a compelling application, aspiring students can position themselves for success in these competitive programs. With dedication and a passion for technology, you can join the next generation of innovators shaping the future of computer science.

EZScholar is an expert university admissions consultant and test prep organization which works with bright and ambitious students seeking admissions to Ivy Leagues, Oxbridge, Stanford, MIT, UC Berkeley, University of Toronto and other top global universities. Our experts have helped thousands of students with their profile building, research papers, extracurriculars, co-curriculars, test prep and admissions essays.

Need Additional Info:

a. Click here for Admission Support, Essays and SOP

b. Click here for SAT Prep

c. Click here for Research Papers