The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) is based in Denver, Colorado, and was founded in 1973 as a separate campus of the University of Colorado system. It is in the center of downtown Denver, where students have exposure to a wide range of career opportunities, cultural experiences, and a dynamic business center. It is a leading public university with rigorous academic programs and research. With locations in Boulder, Denver, Anschutz, and Colorado Springs, CU offers intimate classes, professional faculty, and cooperative learning. The students are exposed to hands-on experience, research opportunities, and leadership skills to prepare them for the challenges of the real world.

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Did You Know Facts About University of Colorado? 

• Established in 1876: The University of Colorado (CU) was founded the same year Colorado achieved statehood.
• Four Campuses: CU operates campuses in Boulder, Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, and Colorado Springs, each of which focuses on different academic disciplines.
• Research Powerhouse: CU is an R1 research university, churning out innovative breakthroughs in aerospace, health sciences, and environmental sustainability.
• NASA Links: CU Boulder has launched more than 20 astronauts into space and is among the top space-researching universities.
• Strong Athletics: CU Boulder's Colorado Buffaloes play in the Pac-12 Conference and enjoy a fervent sports fan base.

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University of Colorado has an integrative admissions policy, taking into account academic record, test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. Here is a summary of the major admission requirements:

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The University of Colorado, Colorado University as applied to, under a test-optional policy, gives the choice to a student about whether or not to submit SAT/ACT scores as part of the application process. The applicant should include test scores when they feel that the scores will complement their application, but they are also able to withhold their scores if they feel that their results do not exactly reflect their academic stature. Colorado University employs a holistic application process. 

University of Colorado Average SAT Scores 

If you do choose to report your SAT scores, it's informative to see the middle 50% of the admitted students' scores. Scores in or above this band will help strengthen your application; however, keep in mind that Colorado University uses holistic and "consider many things in the student admission process.

University of Colorado SAT Scores Distribution

The University of Colorado SAT score distribution varies by campus, with the middle 50% range typically between 1070-1260. Boulder has the highest SAT expectations (1070-1260), while Denver and Colorado Springs have slightly lower ranges. Here is the SAT score range for students admitted to the University of Colorado:

Composite Score 1190-1390. Check SAT Scores for Ivy Leagues.

University of Colorado Schools That Accept SAT Scores

There are several campuses of the University of Colorado system. Therefore, understand the University of Colorado admissions process below: 

• Test-Optional Policy: All but most University of Colorado campuses have a test-optional policy, so scores on the SAT are not needed but may be sent in to enhance an application.
• Competitive Programs: Certain competitive programs (e.g., business, engineering) might take into account SAT scores within a comprehensive review process.
• Scholarship consideration: Providing solid SAT scores may qualify applicants for merit-based scholarships.

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The University of Colorado is test-optional, and students are allowed to decide if they want to submit ACT scores or not.

University of Colorado ACT Scores Distribution

The "Middle 50%" means that 25% of admitted students scored below this range, and 25% scored above it. 

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Superscoring means that if you take the SAT or ACT multiple times, the university will consider your highest section scores across all test dates to create the best possible composite score.

Superscoring Policy by Campus:

Why Does Superscoring Matter?

• Assists in increasing your overall application score by looking at your best score for each section.
• Can increase your admission chances if your scores are better on subsequent test attempts.
• Can assist with the eligibility of scholarship because most scholarships rely on standardized test scores.

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The University of Colorado seeks students of academic excellence who also have good leadership abilities and a commitment to service for their communities. One of the major points considered under holistic review is GPA, and this institution will favor students who have challenged themselves in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or Honors work.

University of Colorado Average GPA of Admitted Students

Average GPAs in the middle 50% 3.5-4.0. GPAs in this range suggest very well-prepared students who took demanding courses in high school. However, because Colorado University uses a holistic review process, slightly weaker students may be competitive along other dimensions-leadership or extraCurricular involvement, for example.

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The University of Colorado's acceptance rate differs by campus. The University of Colorado Denver acceptance rate is about 66%. However, the Denver and Colorado Springs campuses are slightly more open, with acceptance rates of about 85% to 90%, offering a chance for a wide variety of students. Although admission is available, good academic standing, extracurricular activities, and a balanced application can increase your chances.

University of Colorado Scholarships 

The University of Colorado provides a host of scholarships to students on merit, need, and on account of special student backgrounds. They are:

• Chancellor's Achievement Scholarship: Awarded to meritorious students with high grades.
• Esteemed Scholars Program: Merit-based scholarships for Colorado residents with high GPA and SAT/ACT scores.
• First-Generation Grant: For students who are the first in their family to pursue a college education.
• Departmental & Private Scholarships: Provided by individual colleges and private individuals.

Even though Colorado University is highly selective when it comes to admitting students, it does utilize a holistic assessment of students. Even though a stellar academic performance is definitely important, Colorado University also seeks out students who have exhibited leadership and community service along with personal development. If invited for review, having good SAT/ACT scores accompanied by an equilibrated application that proves extraCurricular depth and thoughtful personal statement can actually make a difference in differentiating you during the application process.

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