UC Boulder Admission Requirements

Hey guys, I'm really interested in applying to the University of Boulder! Can anyone give me an idea of what the admission requirements are? What are they looking for in a well-rounded applicant? Thanks in advance!

Hello! It's always exciting to consider new colleges! The University of Colorado Boulder (often referred to as CU Boulder) has a holistic admissions process, so they'll be looking at various factors of your application to evaluate your candidacy. Here are some admission requirements and what CU Boulder generally looks for in strong applicants:

1. High school coursework: CU Boulder will expect a solid high school curriculum that includes English, math, natural science, social sciences, and foreign language courses. Completing AP and/or IB coursework can also demonstrate intellectual curiosity and academic rigor.

2. Grades/GPA: Admissions officers will want to see consistent performance in your classes. While they don't have a specific GPA cutoff, strong applicants typically have a GPA around or above the average admitted student GPA of 3.6 (unweighted).

3. Test scores: CU Boulder is currently test-optional for the 2023-2024 application cycle. You can choose to submit your SAT or ACT scores if you believe they will add value to your application. The middle 50% range for admitted students' SAT scores is 1150 to 1370, and for ACT, it's 25 to 31.

4. Extracurricular activities: Get involved in your high school and local community through clubs, sports teams, volunteer work, or other activities that showcase your passion and commitment. It's better to focus on a few activities where you can make a valuable impact, rather than joining numerous clubs for the sake of ticking a box.

5. Essays: CU Boulder requires applicants to write a personal statement and choose one other CU Boulder-specific prompt. Use these essays to highlight your character, achievements, and unique qualities that don't show up elsewhere in your application. This is a great opportunity for you to share your story, interests, or future aspirations.

6. Letters of recommendation: CU Boulder requires one letter of recommendation from an academic teacher, counselor, or principal. Try to get a letter from someone who knows you well and can speak to your academic abilities, personal strengths, and potential for success in college.

7. Additional factors: Although not officially mentioned in the admission requirements, CU Boulder may also consider factors like demographic background, leadership qualities, compelling personal story, and geographic diversity.

Being a well-rounded applicant involves demonstrating strong academic performance, showcasing leadership in extracurricular activities, and presenting a compelling personal narrative. CU Boulder admissions officers want to understand who you are, what motivates you, and how you would contribute to their campus community.

Best of luck with your application to CU Boulder!