University of Colorado Boulder

Getting in is the hard part. University of Colorado Boulder admitted 78.1% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 1240–1430 on the SAT and 29–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of Colorado Boulder actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

CU Boulder offers many academic programs designed to inspire, challenge and prepare you for success, empowering you to customize your path and get involved through hands-on experience.

Students may customize their education by combining majors, minors and certificates.

• Undergraduate Degree Programsspecialize in a specific area of study
• Undergraduate Minorsadditional skills and knowledge to accompany a major
• Undergraduate Certificatesadditional skill and knowledge alongside a major

Verified from colorado.edu and colorado.edu and colorado.edu and colorado.edu and colorado.edu and colorado.edu and colorado.edu and colorado.edu.

• Testingoptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from https://www.colorado.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.

• What do you hope to study, and why, at CU Boulder? Or if you don't know quite yet, think about your studies so far, extracurricular/after-school activities, jobs, volunteering, future goals or anything else that has shaped your interests.

  Up to 250 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.colorado.edu.

The sticker price is about $37,684, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $25,346.

CU Boulder offers a variety of options to fund your education, and encourages you to apply for any available scholarships and financial aid.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $69,738.

Verified from https://www.colorado.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

“You’ll find opportunity in the classroom, meeting peers and mentors who can open new doors, and in our extraordinary environment, inspiring you to explore and grow.”

The campus environment inspires you to explore and grow.

Is University of Colorado Boulder test-optional?

For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at University of Colorado Boulder is optional.

How hard is it to get into University of Colorado Boulder?

Very hard. University of Colorado Boulder admits 78.1% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1240 to 1430 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.

How much does University of Colorado Boulder cost?

The list price is about $37,684, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $25,346.

Is University of Colorado Boulder worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $69,738 ten years after enrolling, and 75% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.