Seeking CU Admission Requirements

I've got the University of Colorado Boulder on my college list, but I can't seem to find a solid list of admission requirements. What kind of GPA, standardized test scores, or other criteria should I be hitting? Also, is there anything specific they look for in terms of extracurriculars? Thanks a ton!

The University of Colorado Boulder, often simply referred to as CU Boulder, is a selective public research university. The admissions criteria can depend somewhat on the college or school within CU Boulder that you're applying to, but there are some general guidelines you can follow.

First, academic performance is an important part of the assessment. As of the most recent published class profile, the average high school GPA of incoming freshmen is in the range of 3.66 on a 4.0 scale. However, this is just an average, and there can certainly be exceptions to this on either end.

With regards to standardized tests, for the 2024-2025 application cycle, CU Boulder is test-optional, meaning it's up to you whether you want to submit them. While there isn't a specified minimum score, the middle 50% scores for previously admitted students were 1160-1390 for the SAT and 26-32 for the ACT. If you do well on these tests and you think they accurately reflect your academic abilities, it may be beneficial to include them. However, remember that these are averages and there may be exceptions on either end, albeit less than for the GPA.

As for extracurricular activities, the university values both breadth and depth of involvement. While engaged participation in several different areas can reflect a well-rounded applicant, showing deep involvement and responsibility in one or two areas, also known as a “spike,” can demonstrate significant commitment and passion. Activities such as being a club leader, participating in community service projects, or winning awards at competitions can be advantageous.

Finally, make sure to write a strong essay that showcases your interests, the perspective you bring, and your potential for growth. This is a great opportunity to show the admissions committee more about who you are as an individual, beyond just your academic stats. Remember to avoid cliche topics like sports victories or working hard in a challenging class unless you can provide a unique or personal perspective on them.

All in all, hitting these criteria will make you a competitive applicant, but remember that admissions are not an exact science. The admissions committee will evaluate you holistically, so it's important to be authentic and show them who you truly are. Good luck!