
3100 Marine Street, Boulder, CO 80309, USA


The University of Colorado Boulder holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting body recognized for ensuring educational quality and institutional effectiveness. This accreditation confirms that the university meets rigorous standards pertinent to its academic programs, faculty qualifications, and student services.
Additionally, specific academic departments and professional programs at the University of Colorado Boulder carry specialized accreditations relevant to their fields. These accreditations validate the quality and integrity of the curricula, ensuring compliance with industry standards and enhancing graduates' professional credibility. Prospective students should consider these accreditations as part of their decision-making process, as they reflect the institution's commitment to maintaining high academic and professional standards.
University of Colorado Boulder requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential or equivalent high school completion. Prospective students must submit their secondary school records and maintain a required grade point average. Additionally, college program completion and letters of recommendation are mandatory parts of the application process. While not compulsory, demonstrating specific competencies and submitting other test scores are recommended to strengthen an application.
Applicants are required to provide TOEFL scores to verify English proficiency, especially for non-native speakers. The university does not operate an open admission policy, nor does it accept dual credit for admission purposes. However, credit and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are recognized once admitted.
The average SAT score for enrolled students is 1280, placing them in roughly the top 20% nationally, with balanced performances in math and writing sections-both averaging 640. The average ACT score is 28, also ranking in the top 25%. The acceptance rate is about 83%, which is considered average and reflects a competitive but accessible admissions environment. Among enrolled students, the distribution of ACT scores shows that the majority score within the 23 to 36 range, with 43% achieving scores below 36.
The University of Colorado Boulder requires an application fee for prospective students submitting their admission materials. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications. However, the university offers fee waivers to eligible applicants to help reduce financial barriers. These waivers may be available for students who demonstrate significant financial need or who meet specific criteria outlined by the institution.
Applicants seeking a fee waiver must typically provide documentation to support their request, ensuring the process remains equitable and accessible. Fee waivers can apply to both undergraduate and graduate applications, though the exact eligibility criteria and application methods may differ between these levels. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the university's admissions website or contact admissions staff directly to verify their eligibility and learn how to submit a fee waiver request properly.
By providing these waivers, the University of Colorado Boulder aims to promote inclusivity and expand access to higher education regardless of an applicant's financial situation.
University of Colorado Boulder hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students the opportunity to participate in Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs. The presence of this unit allows cadets to pursue military training alongside their academic studies, preparing them for leadership roles in the armed forces.
University of Colorado Boulder welcomes transfer applicants for the fall, spring, and summer terms, offering multiple entry points throughout the academic year. The admissions process is considered moderately difficult, reflecting a balanced level of selectivity.
Transfer students can bring in credits from various standardized exams, including CLEP general and subject tests as well as DANTES exams, which the university accepts in its credit evaluation. Additionally, transfer credits are generally accepted, subject to a credit age limit of 10 years, ensuring that coursework remains relevant and current.
The university also allows transfer applicants to submit recommendation letters to support their application, which may help provide a fuller picture of their academic potential and readiness for transfer.
University of Colorado Boulder offers a variety of study abroad options designed to accommodate different academic interests and schedules. Students can participate in semester-long programs, short-term summer sessions, and faculty-led tours that range from a few weeks to an entire term. These programs cover diverse regions around the world, allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultures while earning academic credit.
The university emphasizes programs that integrate rigorous coursework with meaningful cultural experiences. Participants have opportunities to study at partner institutions globally, engage in internships abroad, or participate in research projects. The range of disciplines covered includes the humanities, sciences, business, and engineering, aligning with students' major requirements and career goals.
In addition to traditional exchange programs, University of Colorado Boulder provides customized experiences such as language immersion trips and global service learning projects. These tailored programs aim to enhance students' global competencies and personal development through hands-on involvement in local communities.
Support services for prospective study abroad students include predeparture orientations, academic advising, and scholarship assistance. The university encourages all students to consider international study as a vital part of their education to broaden their perspectives and prepare for global citizenship.
Median composite SAT score
1280Median composite ACT score
28Percent of students submitting ACT scores
9%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
26%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal 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
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent 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
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer