Overview
University of Colorado Boulder is a accessible public four-year institution in Boulder, Colorado. The school accepts 80.7% of applicants and enrolls 31,578 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 80.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,275
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,160–1,390
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 29
- Total Enrollment
- 31,578
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
University of Colorado Boulder uses the Common Application with a December 15 priority deadline for fall admission, though you can apply through January 15. You'll need to submit your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and a personal statement. Colorado residents pay significantly less tuition than out-of-state students.
Engineering programs at CU Boulder are much more competitive than the university's overall admission process. Computer science, aerospace engineering, and other engineering majors have additional requirements and limited spots. Apply early if you're interested in these programs, as they can fill up quickly.
The Boulder campus sits at 5,300 feet elevation, which affects some students initially. Bring layers and expect weather changes throughout the day. The city has strict noise ordinances that impact off-campus housing, and many students find apartments fill up early in the spring for the following academic year.
New Student Orientation happens during the summer before your first semester. You'll register for classes during orientation, so research your degree requirements beforehand. The university requires all freshmen under 20 to live on campus unless they live with family within 25 miles.
CU Boulder's location offers easy access to hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities, but the cost of living in Boulder is higher than many college towns. Factor this into your budget for off-campus dining and entertainment.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $21,480/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $16,430
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $41,943
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 75.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $69,738/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 89.2%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Colorado Boulder require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
University of Colorado Boulder has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for University of Colorado Boulder?
The priority application deadline for University of Colorado Boulder is January 15 for fall admission. Applications received after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Does University of Colorado Boulder offer early decision or early action?
University of Colorado Boulder offers early action with a deadline of November 15. This is a non-binding option that provides an admission decision by mid-February.
Can I transfer to University of Colorado Boulder from another college?
University of Colorado Boulder accepts transfer students who have completed at least 12 credit hours at another institution. Transfer applicants must have a minimum 2.7 GPA from all previous college coursework.