See what Students are Posting about Case Western Reserve University

Merit Scholarships

Generous merit scholarships are a major draw. Many students report receiving significant offers that make CWRU one of their most affordable private school options, sometimes dramatically undercutting sticker prices at other privates.

Cost-conscious students frequently frame CWRU as a high-value option when considering debt load and long-term ROI.

Location in Cleveland

Cleveland's pros and cons are discussed. Students appreciate the access to healthcare institutions, museums, and low cost of living, but some express concern about limited entertainment options compared to bigger cities.

Safety and public transportation around campus also come up in a few decision discussions, though rarely as major dealbreakers.

Pre-Med Strength

CWRU is frequently praised for its strong preparation in pre-med and health sciences. Students cite the connection to nearby hospitals, abundant research opportunities, and a supportive environment for building strong med school applications.

Many view CWRU as offering an easier path to a high GPA compared to ultra-competitive pre-med environments at larger research universities.

Social Life Fit

Social life at CWRU is described as quieter compared to larger or more urban schools. Students mention that while there are activities and student groups, the campus is not dominated by Greek life or a heavy party scene.

Some posts suggest CWRU is a good fit for students who prioritize academics and smaller social circles over a large, high-energy environment.

Waitlist Experiences

Some students share uncertainty around being waitlisted at CWRU and at competing schools. Posts reflect strategic decision-making around securing strong financial packages and having a reliable admit at CWRU while waiting on other results.

Career Outcomes

Career and graduate school outcomes are cited positively. Students highlight strong placement into med schools, research labs, and regional tech and engineering companies.

Conversations often focus on CWRU's ability to deliver good ROI for healthcare, engineering, and research-focused students.

Prestige and Reputation

CWRU's prestige is seen as strong within healthcare, engineering, and academia circles but not as widely recognized among the general public compared to Ivies or large publics.

Students weighing reputation often frame CWRU as a strategic, practical choice rather than a pure name-brand play.

Engineering and STEM

Engineering, computer science, and biomedical engineering programs are strong points. Students recognize that while CWRU's programs are less famous than those at top engineering powerhouses, outcomes for internships and job placements remain very competitive.

Several posts discuss CWRU's ABET accreditation and internship pipelines, particularly for students looking to stay connected to the Midwest or East Coast job markets.