About

About Colorado State University-Fort Collins

public research universityhigh acceptance ratestem focused programsland grant institutionfort collins colorado

Colorado State University-Fort Collins is a public research university in Fort Collins, CO, known for its high acceptance rate, stem focused programs, and land grant institution. With an acceptance rate of 91%, CSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 5,573 students each year. CSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1080–1280, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. CSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $9,765 per year; the sticker price of $47,485 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Colorado State University-Fort Collins acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

91%
Overall Accept Rate
3.50
Typical Admitted GPA
1180
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1080 – 1280 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Application Strategy
CSU Fort Collins admits over 90 percent of applicants, so your GPA and course rigor in high school are the strongest factors driving your admission decision. Make sure your transcript shows a solid upward trend or consistent performance in college prep courses.
Essay Strategy
CSU treats essays as a secondary factor, so keep your writing genuine and clear rather than overly polished. Use your essay to connect your interests to a specific CSU program or resource like the Warner College of Natural Resources or the Engines and Energy Conversion Lab if those align with your goals.

Financial Aid & Cost

What Colorado State University-Fort Collins actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$47k/yr$13.3k
30k-48k~$47k/yr$14.5k
48k-75k~$47k/yr$15.9k
75k-110k~$47k/yr$21.9k
110k+~$47k/yr$29.8k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

67%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$50k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
23,045
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

70%White
16%Hispanic
5%Two or More Races
3%Asian
3%Black / African American
2%International
1%Unknown / Unreported
1%American Indian / AK Native
0%Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Gender45% Men · 55% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status98% Citizens and Immigrants · 2% International
CSU, Fort Collins Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch