CU Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder · Boulder, Colorado · Public
CU Boulder admitted 71% of 73,180 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1130–1370 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 75% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at CU Boulder
Enter a score to see whether CU Boulder is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (71%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more.
Early decision and early action
CU Boulder offers early action but didn’t report its early admit rate.
6,367 students were offered a spot on the waitlist, 1,189 took it, and 92 were admitted from it.
What admissions weighs
How CU Boulder rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- GPA
Important
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Activities
- Talent or ability
- Character
Considered
- Class rank
- Test scores
- First generation
- Where you live
- State residency
- Volunteering
- Work experience
Not considered
- Interview
- Legacy
- Religion
- Showing interest
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.77 GPA. 26% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $37,684 in-state and $63,197 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $22,640 on average (in-state).
Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:
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