University of Colorado Boulder
The Vibe Check
The vibe at CU Boulder is an energetic blend of intellectual curiosity and outdoor adventure, fueled by a collective love for the mountains. You'll feel a palpable spirit of exploration in the air, whether students are heading to a lab or to the Flatirons for a study break. It's a place where ambition meets an active, laid-back lifestyle.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
CU Boulder is a powerhouse for research and innovation, especially in engineering, aerospace, and environmental science, backed by significant federal funding. The university offers a rigorous education with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from access to cutting-edge facilities and renowned faculty who are leaders in their fields.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Boulder
Boulder is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with students regularly hiking, rock climbing, and biking on the nearby Flatirons and extensive trail networks. The vibrant Pearl Street Mall offers a hub of activity with unique shops, diverse restaurants, and street performers. The campus itself buzzes with energy, from Division I sports games to countless student-led events and club activities.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($69,738):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus and surrounding Boulder area are generally considered very safe, with low crime rates compared to other cities of its size. The university offers robust campus safety resources, including a 24/7 escort service and the CU Boulder Safety app for real-time alerts.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unbeatable location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains for endless outdoor recreation.
- ✓ Top-tier research programs, particularly in aerospace engineering, environmental science, and physics.
- ✓ Strong alumni network with strong ties to major tech, aerospace, and energy companies in Colorado and beyond.
- ✓ Vibrant campus spirit centered around NCAA Division I sports, especially football and basketball.
Cons
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher than the national average, creating a financial barrier.
- ✗ The 'party school' reputation can be a distraction for students who are not focused on their academics.
- ✗ Boulder has a high cost of living, which can add a significant burden to a student's budget beyond tuition.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
CU Boulder is nationally renowned for its strong programs in aerospace engineering, environmental science, and physics, partly due to its close ties with federal research labs like NIST and NOAA. The university is also famous for its stunning campus at the base of the Flatirons, its vibrant Greek life, and its status as a top 'party school' with a passionate D1 sports culture.
CU Boulder has an acceptance rate of 83.28%, making it generally accessible, but admission to specific, more competitive programs like Engineering or Business can be much more selective. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score between 1220 and 1430 (or an ACT score of 26-32) and a strong GPA. While the overall rate is high, a complete and compelling application is still essential.
Campus life is a dynamic mix of rigorous academics, school spirit, and outdoor adventure. The student body is known for being active, friendly, and collaborative, with a strong culture of hiking, skiing, and biking built into the weekly routine. You'll find a bustling campus with over 450 student clubs, a lively Greek system, and a strong sense of community centered around cheering on the Buffaloes at Folsom Field.
For in-state students, CU Boulder is an excellent value, offering a prestigious education at a reasonable cost with a strong median earnings outcome of $69,738 after 10 years. For out-of-state students, the investment is substantial, but the university's strong reputation, particularly in STEM and business fields, and its prime location in a thriving job market can provide a significant return on investment. Most students benefit from financial aid, bringing the average net price down to a more manageable figure.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1876
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 34,190
- In-State Tuition $16,430
- Out-of-State $41,943
- Zip Code 80309
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, CU Boulder offers a strong return on investment, with tuition below the national average for public universities and excellent post-graduation earnings. Out-of-state students face a higher price tag, but the university's reputation and the 10-year median earnings of nearly $70,000 can make it a worthwhile investment for those in high-demand fields like engineering and business. The average net price of $21,480, after aid, makes it an accessible option for many families.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.