
1100 North Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501-3122, USA


Colorado Mesa University holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards for academic quality and institutional integrity. This accreditation is a critical factor for prospective students, as it signifies that the university provides recognized and reputable higher education credentials.
The university also maintains various program-specific accreditations that validate the quality and rigor of individual academic departments and professional programs. These specialized accreditations can enhance the value of certain degrees and may be particularly important for students pursuing careers in fields that require professional certification or licensure.
For students considering Colorado Mesa University, understanding its regional and programmatic accreditation status provides assurance that their educational investment is supported by an institution committed to sustained quality improvement and accountability.
Colorado Mesa University requires prospective students to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent high school diploma. Submission of a secondary school record and maintaining a minimum secondary school GPA are mandatory, while providing a secondary school rank is recommended but not compulsory. Although the university does not have an open admission policy, it does accept dual credit and Advanced Placement (AP) credits to count toward degree requirements.
The university does not require applicants to have their own computer; however, computer leasing options may be available. English language proficiency is essential, as demonstrated by a required TOEFL score. Other standardized tests, while not mandatory, are recommended to support the application. The university encourages demonstration of relevant competencies, although they are not strictly required.
The acceptance rate at Colorado Mesa University stands at approximately 81%, which reflects an average level of selectivity. Applicants typically present standardized test scores near the lower end nationally, with a mean SAT score of 1074 and an average ACT composite score of 23. These scores place enrolled students mostly in the bottom 30 to 40 percentiles nationally. The university sees a balanced application pool in terms of gender, and admits a majority of those who apply, reflecting its moderately accessible admissions process.
Colorado Mesa University charges a standard application fee for prospective students submitting their admissions materials. However, the university offers fee waivers to eligible applicants to reduce financial barriers. Fee waivers are typically available for students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria set by the admissions office. To request a waiver, applicants usually need to provide documentation or complete a formal request process as outlined by the university.
Colorado Mesa University does not host any Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs directly on its campus. Prospective students interested in participating in ROTC activities typically need to enroll in such programs through partnerships with nearby institutions or military branches. This means that while students at Colorado Mesa University can pursue military training and leadership development opportunities, the formal ROTC instruction is accessed externally rather than through offerings physically located at the university itself.
Colorado Mesa University accepts transfer students for multiple terms, including fall, spring, and summer, providing flexibility for those planning to continue their education at different points in the academic year. The university welcomes transfer credits and recognizes standardized credit exams such as CLEP subject tests and DANTES, which can facilitate the transfer process for eligible courses. Additionally, the institution accepts recommendations, supporting students who seek to transfer based on prior academic performance and external assessments.
Colorado Mesa University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich the academic and cultural experiences of its students. These programs allow students to engage with diverse global perspectives while earning credits toward their degree. The university supports both faculty-led trips and partnerships with international institutions, providing flexibility in duration and location to suit different academic interests and schedules.
Students can participate in short-term programs typically lasting a few weeks during the semester breaks, as well as semester-long exchanges. These options include immersive language study, cultural immersion, and field-based research in various countries. Programs are often coordinated to complement students' majors or minors, particularly in fields such as business, environmental science, and humanities.
Colorado Mesa University also encourages experiential learning through internships and service-learning projects abroad, which combine practical work experience with cultural understanding. These opportunities aim to develop students' global competencies and professional skills simultaneously.
The university provides support through pre-departure orientations, on-site assistance, and integration back into campus life after the program concludes. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to help offset costs, making study abroad a viable option for a broader range of students.
Median composite SAT score
1074Median composite ACT score
23High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer