Student Body ↓

About

About University of Colorado Boulder

public research universitystem focused programsaccessible admissionslarge campus community

University of Colorado Boulder is a public research university in Boulder, CO, known for its stem focused programs, accessible admissions, and large campus community. With an acceptance rate of 81%, Boulder is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 7,106 students each year. Boulder is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1180–1390, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Boulder offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $11,380 per year; the sticker price of $58,213 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

University of Colorado Boulder acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

81%
Overall Accept Rate
3.75
Typical Admitted GPA
1285
Median Admitted SAT
GPATypical admitted range: 3.50 – 4.00 unweighted

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SATSubmitted score range: 1180 – 1390 (test optional)

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ACTScore range: 27 – 33

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to University of Colorado Boulder

Essay Strategy
CU Boulder weighs essays as a meaningful part of its review, so use the personal statement to show a genuine connection to Colorado or the outdoors, sustainability, or research culture on campus. Admissions readers respond well to applicants who can articulate why Boulder specifically fits their academic and personal goals.
Application Strategy
CU Boulder uses a school and college based admissions process, meaning your application is reviewed by the specific college you apply to, such as Engineering, Leeds School of Business, or Arts and Sciences. Research the specific college requirements and tailor your activities and essay language to that program directly.

Financial Aid & Cost

What University of Colorado Boulder actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$58k/yr$14.2k
30k-48k~$58k/yr$14.4k
48k-75k~$58k/yr$18.8k
75k-110k~$58k/yr$26.9k
110k+~$58k/yr$34.8k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

75%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$55k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
18:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
29,951
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

67%White
14%Hispanic
7%Two or More Races
6%Asian
3%International
2%Black / African American
1%Unknown / Unreported
0%American Indian / AK Native
0%Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Gender53% Men · 47% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status97% Citizens and Immigrants · 3% International
Boulder, Boulder Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch