Quick Summary
Based in Boulder, United States, University of Colorado Boulder is a public with roots dating back to 1876. Ranked #148 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 37153 students including 9% from outside United States. Known for strengths in Aerospace Engineering, Geosciences, Physics, it maintains an acceptance rate of 79%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Top-tier research opportunities, stunning location at the foot of the Flatirons, and a strong culture of innovation and athletic excellence.
Subject Strengths
Aerospace EngineeringGeosciencesPhysicsAtmospheric ScienceEnvironmental StudiesLawMusic
Founded1876
TypePublic
Total Students37153
Intl Students9%
Faculty Ratio18:1
CampusUrban
Campus Size600 acres
Affiliated HospitalsNot Available
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (HLC)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#148
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#151-175
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#151-200
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate,Graduate,Doctorate,Professional Certification
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Available
Online Programs
Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP),JILA,BioFrontiers Institute,CIRES
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate79%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL75
Min GPA3
GREOptional (Varies by program)
GMATOptional (Varies by program)
SATOptional
ACTOptional
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 15
SPRINGApplication Deadline · October 1
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Emphasize personal character and resilience in the 'personal statement'. Strong focus on math and science prep is recommended for Engineering and Business applicants.
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Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$42,670/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$19,500/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$36,100/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$70
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$62,170/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$5,500
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate,Graduate,Doctorate,Professional Certification programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineering | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Business Administration | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Psychology | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Computer Science | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Integrative Physiology | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$68,000
Average Salary After Graduation
91%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementHigh placement through Career Services and Handshake portal.
Industry Connections
Strong links with NASALockheed MartinBall Aerospaceand various tech startups in the Boulder/Denver corridor.
Notable Alumni
Matt Stone (South Park Creator),Trey Parker (South Park Creator),Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Nobel Peace Prize winner),Scott Carpenter (Astronaut)
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Folsom Field, CU Events Center, Recreation Center with ice rink and 'Buff' shaped pool.
Student Clubs
500+
Library Resources
University Libraries system including Norlin Library and specialized branches for Music and Engineering.
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available