This college guide uses the most recent data available provided by the U.S. Department of Education. This information was last updated on April 25th, 2023.
University of Colorado Boulder Admission Requirements Guide
Whether you’re just starting to consider University of Colorado Boulder as an option or are well into the application process, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the University of Colorado Boulder undergraduate admission requirements. After reading this guide, you will understand what needs to be done to maximize your chances of being admitted to this institution’s undergraduate program.
University of Colorado Boulder Acceptance Rate
The University of Colorado Boulder admission rate was 79.58% for the most recent class. While this college isn’t as hard to get into as the ivy league schools, substantial effort is still required for your application. If you ensure all of your required application materials are submitted to 79.58%, then you should have a decent chance of being accepted. (given that your academic profile measures up to the average metrics we are about to cover)
University of Colorado Boulder GPA Requirements
Every high school has its own method of constructing students’ grade point averages (GPA). Some secondary schools use a weighted GPA system, where they take into account the rigor of honors courses and weigh them more heavily, and others use an unweighted GPA system, in which letter grades all carry the same weight regardless of the course’s difficulty.
To level the playing field, schools often compare applicants through their unweighted GPA and consider the number of honors and advanced courses separately. This is how University of Colorado Boulder typically conducts its college application review process.
University of Colorado Boulder Average GPA
When looking at undergraduate students who were most recently admitted, the University of Colorado Boulder average GPA is 3.6. Although there are no GPA requirements for admission, it is strongly recommended that prospective students aim for at least a 3.6 to give themselves an adequate chance of being accepted into University of Colorado Boulder.
University of Colorado Boulder SAT Score Requirements
The SAT is a standardized test that measures college readiness and educational foundation. The SAT has been used for nearly 100 years to test prospective students in mathematics, reading, writing, and language. Here are the SAT metrics to take into account when applying to University of Colorado Boulder.
University of Colorado Boulder Average SAT Scores
When looking at the undergraduate students who were in the most recently admitted class, the average University of Colorado Boulder SAT Score was 1292.
Does University of Colorado Boulder Require SAT Test Results?
Several major colleges have placed less emphasis on requiring SAT test scores; some are not weighing them as heavily when making admission decisions. On the other hand, the majority of large universities still require applicants to send in their SAT results. Many schools waived the requirement for students impacted by the pandemic, making this question even more convoluted. Thus, is University of Colorado Boulder currently requiring the submission of SAT test results to be considered for admission?
University of Colorado Boulder does not require SAT test results, according to our latest data. However, keep in mind that this policy could change with little notice. We still encourage students to submit their SAT scores as part of their application.
University of Colorado Boulder ACT Score Requirements
The ACT was founded in 1969 and serves as another college readiness measurement tool. The four subject areas are: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Here are the details regarding University of Colorado Boulder’s ACT Requirements.
University of Colorado Boulder Average ACT Scores
When examining the most recently accepted undergraduate class, the median ACT Score for University of Colorado Boulder is 28.
Here is an updated range of University of Colorado Boulder ACT scores segmented by the three sections of the exam: English, Math, and Writing.
ACT Scores of Undergraduate Students Recently Admitted to University of Colorado Boulder: | |||
| 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | |
| English | 24 | 29 | 33 |
| Math | 24 | 27 | 30 |
| Writing | |||
Does University of Colorado Boulder Require ACT Test Results?
University of Colorado Boulder is not requiring applicants to submit ACT test scores. Although standardized tests are not required for their current admissions period, it is strongly recommended to submit your ACT results. Admissions counselors are looking at the applicant holistically, and a good score can add weight to your application.
University of Colorado Boulder Application Requirements
University of Colorado Boulder has a solid undergraduate program. University of Colorado Boulder’s admissions team extends offers to many students, although it’s not a cakewalk to achieve admission. The college’s application requirements need to be completed in a timely manner; here’s what you need to know.
Does University of Colorado Boulder Use the Common App?
Like most major U.S. schools, University of Colorado Boulder does use the Common Application for their admissions process. The Common App is a unified application that prospective students use to apply to undergraduate colleges and universities. It allows applicants to use a single application that can be sent to as many colleges as they apply to, instead of repeatedly inputting the same demographic and academic information per school. University of Colorado Boulder may request additional materials, such as supplemental essays and questions, but the primary application structure remains the same.
Does University of Colorado Boulder Require Letters of Recommendation?
University of Colorado Boulder does not require a letter of recommendation from a teacher. Even though it’s not required, you are allowed to submit a teacher recommendation letter as supplemental material in your application. It is highly recommended that you do so, especially if you have a strong relationship with a teacher who is willing to attest to your academic and interpersonal skills.
A recommendation letter from a school counselor or guidance counselor is required to apply to University of Colorado Boulder. High school counselors are constantly writing letters of recommendation for students, so asking them to create one for you is a fairly straightforward process. Ensure that they are at least somewhat familiar with your character and goals, as the purpose of this letter is to show University of Colorado Boulder that you are a comprehensively complete applicant.
University of Colorado Boulder Application Checklist
See our application checklist for University of Colorado Boulder below to ensure you complete and submit the proper materials.
Required Application Materials:
- Completed Common App
- 1 Letter of Recommendation from a School Counselor
- Personal Statement (College Essay)
- University of Colorado Boulder Application Fee or Fee Waiver
- Academic Transcripts (at the time of submission and when senior year first semester grades are released)
Optional Application Materials:
- Standardized Test Scores, such as the SAT or ACT
- Additional Recommendation Letters (Teacher Evaluations)
Does University of Colorado Boulder Accept AP Credit?
University of Colorado Boulder accepts Advanced Placement (AP) credits, but not all scores will be accepted for college credits. Your AP score typically must be at least a “5” to be considered for college credit. Depending on the subject area, the scores may count towards as many as 12 course credits. For some subjects, University of Colorado Boulder will not convert the scores to any college credit. This is something to keep in mind when enrolling for AP courses during high school. It’s also important to note that colleges change their AP credit policies on a near annual basis.
University of Colorado Boulder Facts & Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Colorado Boulder Public or Private?
University of Colorado Boulder is a public university. This institution primarily receives funding from CO state taxes and student tuition. Public colleges also tend to designate substantially different tuition rates for in-state students as compared to out-of-state students.
How Many Students Does University of Colorado Boulder Have?
University of Colorado Boulder has a large student body made up of 30414 undergraduate degree-seeking students, according to our latest data. With a massive campus population, there are plenty of opportunities to try new things and meet new people.
How do I apply to University of Colorado Boulder?
Make sure you have all of the required application materials we covered on hand. You can learn more about the application process for this particular institution at University of Colorado Boulder’s Website.
Where is University of Colorado Boulder?
University of Colorado Boulder is located in Boulder, CO. To visualize where University of Colorado Boulder’s campus is based in relation to Boulder’s downtown area and landmarks, take a look at the interactive map below.
University of Colorado Boulder Campus Map
Final Thoughts on Applying to University of Colorado Boulder
Hopefully this guide helped you to learn more about the admissions requirements for University of Colorado Boulder. When applying to colleges, remember to keep in mind that not every school will be a good fit. Take the time to evaluate what’s most important to you, such as the school’s academic opportunities, financial aid benefits, and location. All of the application components we covered are important – take your time to put your best foot forward. The College Grid team wishes you the best of luck on your college applications!
Sydney Janssen
As a valedictorian in high school, I developed a strong passion for learning and pushing myself to achieve academic success. Now, as a first-generation college graduate, I'm excited to share my experiences and insights with others who may be navigating similar paths through College Grid.