Overview
Colorado School of Mines is a moderately selective public four-year institution in Golden, Colorado. The school accepts 58.0% of applicants and enrolls 5,801 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 58.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,409
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,330–1,488
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 32
- Total Enrollment
- 5,801
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Colorado School of Mines requires demonstrated interest in STEM fields, so your application needs concrete evidence of scientific curiosity beyond just good grades. The admissions committee wants to see hands-on experience through internships, research projects, or technical competitions like FIRST Robotics or Science Olympiad.
Your essays should highlight specific programs that draw you to Mines. The school's unique Applied Computational Mathematics degree combines programming with advanced math for industries like aerospace and finance. The Petroleum Engineering program includes field camps where you work on actual drilling sites. Computer Science students can pursue the Humanitarian Engineering minor, applying technology to global challenges like clean water access.
Mines uses rolling admissions starting October 1st, so apply early for better housing options and scholarship consideration. The school requires two essays: one about your interest in STEM and another about overcoming challenges. Address the collaborative nature of engineering work in your responses, since Mines emphasizes team-based learning through its Cornerstone design courses.
The campus culture centers on problem-solving and practical application rather than theoretical study. Students call themselves "Orediggers" and participate in traditions like the annual Human-Powered Vehicle Challenge, where teams design and race custom bicycles. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social life. The outdoor recreation program takes advantage of Colorado's mountains for skiing, hiking, and rock climbing.
You'll fit well if you prefer learning by doing over memorizing formulas. The workload is demanding, with group projects starting freshman year. Students typically study together rather than compete against each other. The small class sizes mean professors know your name, but also notice when you skip.
Submit your application with strong math and science grades, particularly in calculus and physics. The school weighs course rigor heavily, so take AP or IB courses if available. Your recommendation letters should come from STEM teachers who can speak to your analytical thinking and persistence through difficult problems.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $29,240/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $21,186
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $44,376
- Students Receiving Aid
- 13%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 79.4%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $97,335/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 93.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Colorado School of Mines require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Colorado School of Mines requires either SAT or ACT scores for all first-year applicants. The school does not have a test-optional policy.
What is the application deadline for Colorado School of Mines?
Colorado School of Mines has a regular decision deadline of January 15. The school also offers early action with a November 1 deadline.
Can you transfer to Colorado School of Mines from another college?
Yes, Colorado School of Mines accepts transfer students. Transfer applicants must have completed at least 12 college credit hours and maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA.
Does Colorado School of Mines offer early decision or early action?
Colorado School of Mines offers early action with a November 1 deadline. The school does not have an early decision option.