A straight answer: 81.1% acceptance rate.
This means for every 100 applicants, only 81 actually get in. No guessing. University of Colorado Boulder is a UNIV institution located in Boulder, CO — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.
Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)
Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:
Men
Women
If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.
Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters
This is where the reality hits:
Yield Rate: N/A
This shows how many admitted students choose University of Colorado Boulder. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.
What Scores Do You Need?
If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Acceptance Rate at University of Colorado Boulder
The acceptance rate at University of Colorado Boulder is often one of the first numbers students notice when researching admissions. While it provides a snapshot of selectivity, it’s not designed to answer personal questions about chances or outcomes.
An acceptance rate of 81.1% reflects how many applicants were admitted overall—not how competitive individual programs are or how different applicant profiles perform. Understanding that distinction helps students avoid common misconceptions.
Why Acceptance Rates Don’t Tell the Whole Story
Acceptance rates are shaped by who applies. Universities that attract a large number of applicants with varying levels of preparation often report higher acceptance rates without necessarily being easier to succeed at academically.
At University of Colorado Boulder, certain programs may receive significantly more applications than others, creating uneven competition across majors. That means the effective acceptance rate can differ depending on what and how a student applies.
Using Acceptance Rate Data More Strategically
Rather than focusing on the acceptance rate alone, applicants should use it as one data point among many. Academic fit, intended major, and course rigor often have a greater impact on admissions decisions than the headline number.
For students researching the University of Colorado Boulder acceptance rate, the most productive approach is to combine that information with a realistic assessment of their own academic profile. Doing so turns a simple statistic into a useful planning tool.
Admissions Insight
Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?
Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.
Your Chances of Getting Into University of Colorado Boulder
Let’s keep it real:
- ✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
- 🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
- ❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles
If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.
What's my real shot?
Acceptance Odds Estimator
Estimate your admission probability at University of Colorado Boulder based on your unique profile.
Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.
Try Right Fit MatcherHow Students Should Use Admissions Information Going Forward
After reviewing admissions data, many students feel pressure to draw firm conclusions. But college admissions rarely reward certainty — they reward preparation and thoughtful decision-making.
Admissions outcomes are influenced by shifting factors: applicant interest, program capacity, and institutional priorities. That’s why the same university can feel approachable to one student and competitive to another.
Turning Research into Strategy
The best applicants use admissions information to shape their approach, not limit their options. They ask where they are competitive, where they may need stronger positioning, and how each school fits into their overall goals.
If University of Colorado Boulder aligns with your academic direction and expectations, then admissions data should help you plan — not second-guess yourself. Strategy, not speculation, leads to better outcomes.
Should You Apply to University of Colorado Boulder?
If 81.1% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.
- Will I be a standout here?
- Do I like the vibe?
- Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
- Is this my best-fit major here?
Explore University of Colorado Boulder
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs About University of Colorado Boulder Acceptance Rate
Is CU Boulder test optional for admissions?
Yes, CU Boulder is test optional, meaning that SAT or ACT scores are not required for admissions.
Can I self-report SAT or ACT scores to CU Boulder?
Yes, you can self-report your SAT or ACT scores to CU Boulder if you choose to submit them.
What ACT sections are not considered at CU Boulder?
CU Boulder does not consider the ACT Writing and Science sections for admissions as of April 2025.
How do I submit test scores if I choose to?
If you choose to submit test scores, you can self-report them, or you may provide official scores through the appropriate testing agency.
Can transfer students submit test scores?
Yes, transfer students may submit optional self-reported test scores as part of their application to CU Boulder.
Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual
University of Colorado Boulder isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.
Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.
Unlock Your Best Shot with Orbit
Everything you need to maximize your college application success