cu boulder essay requirements

Boulder, Colorado

University of colorado boulder | cu boulder.

  • Cost & scholarships
  • Admission requirements
  • Essay prompts

Want to see your chances of admission at University of Colorado Boulder | CU Boulder?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

University of Colorado Boulder | CU Boulder’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Why this major short response.

What do you hope to study, and why, at CU Boulder? Or if you don‘t know quite yet, think about your studies so far, extracurricular/after-school activities, jobs, volunteering, future goals, or anything else that has shaped your interests.

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Duke University

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

cu boulder essay requirements

How to Write the University of Colorado Boulder Essay 2018-2019

cu boulder essay requirements

University of Colorado Boulder, also known as CU Boulder, is the flagship university of the University of Colorado system and one of the oldest public universities in the Southwest. UC Boulder is a large university, with more than 30,000 undergraduate students enrolled every year. Founded in 1876, the university has been home to 12 Nobel laureates and 20 astronauts. In addition to its academic prestige, their athletic teams have won numerous national championships, most notably in skiing.

Accepted students had an average SAT of between 1140 and 1370 and an ACT of 25-30. While CU Boulder is a less selective university, with an acceptance rate of 77%, the essay still plays a role in admissions. With the following guide, CollegeVine is here to help provide some tips on how to tackle this essay.

CU Boulder Application Essay Prompt

CU Boulder’s supplementary essay requires a response of between 250-650 words. This is a pretty wide berth, but overall it is best to stick to the longer end, in order to include as much detail in your response as possible.

As a vibrant community of learners dedicated to inclusive excellence, the students, faculty and staff at the University of Colorado Boulder seek to be open and respectful of contrasting beliefs and opinions. Every student has a unique life experience and a set of circumstances by which they are shaped and influenced. Your background may have been shaped by family history, cultural traditions, race, ethnicity, religion, politics, income, ideology, gender identity or sexual orientation.

Reflect on your unique background and tell us about a time when you had to relate to someone whose life experience was very different from your own. how did you approach the difference if put in a similar situation again today, would you respond differently if so, how.

There are three main points you want to get across in your response for this prompt: 1) how your background is unique, 2) how you related to someone else who is different from you and how you handled the situation, and 3) how you would react to the same situation today. Since the most important part of your response is the interaction between you and the other person, the bulk of your essay should be spent on points two and three.

However, it is still necessary to inform the admissions council of your unique background by devoting around a paragraph to discussing it. It is even more essential to convey the story you choose to tell effectively, and to end it with a brief, but comprehensive, overview of your current thoughts on your previous interaction.

cu boulder essay requirements

Here, it is a good idea to comment on your growth as a person. Maybe you were inspired to interact with more people of different backgrounds through a service trip or time spent abroad. Talk about what you would have done differently in the situation you choose to describe, but also show how you’ve changed and matured since that encounter. Lastly, make sure to tie this into how you interact with others today, and how this will benefit you at UC Boulder.

How to structure your essay response:

  • Point 1: Your Unique Background — this shouldn’t be just one characteristic, but a plethora of things that have culminated in your upbringing and development.
  • Examples: You were adopted, your parents are significantly older than those of your friends, you have a disability, you’ve lived in the same house for all your life, you’ve moved often, or you had a full-time job all throughout high school.
  • Point 2: The Story — discuss your interaction with someone different from you.
  • Examples: “ I volunteered at my town’s local living center, and befriended an 88-year-old woman,” “During my sophomore year of high school, I participated in a student-exchange program, and spent a semester at a school in Warsaw,” “When I started babysitting my neighbor’s 11-year-old daughter, I had no idea that I would learn as much from her as she would from me.”
  • Point 3: Personal Growth — reflect on the story from point two, focusing on what you would have done differently, and how the experience changed you.
  • Examples: “I would have asked her more questions. What did she think the future would be like? What was her take on the war?,” “After that day, I decided I wanted to learn more about the immigration process. I signed up to help out at a refugee assistance center, helping recent immigrants improve their English skills.”
  • Conclusion — tie your narrative to something specific at CU Boulder.
  • Examples: “My time spent abroad, speaking a different language and really becoming integrated into the community, furthered my desire to study intercultural relations and inspired me to publish my own scholarship. The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program at CU will help make this possible,” “INVST Community Studies will give me concrete skills that can help me further help out the community around me.”

Final Comments

CU Boulder takes great pride in really making an effort to get to know its students. It provides holistic and comprehensive academic advising in order to personalize undergraduate students’ schedules. This commitment toward individual support means that CU Boulder faculty and staff really care about getting to know each student.

Your essay should show the admissions committee some of what distinguishes you from everyone else. It should also convey your passion, drive, and strength of character. In commenting on your growth, discuss what your plans are for the future. In writing of the interaction between you and another person, show your strengths and how you make up for your weaknesses. Infuse your essay response with details that will make the admissions committee want to get to know you better.

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

cu boulder essay requirements

Need help with your college applications?

We’ve helped thousands of students write amazing college essays and successfully apply to college! Learn more about how our Applications Program can help your chances of admission.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

cu boulder essay requirements

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

PrepScholar SAT

University of Colorado Boulder Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are University of Colorado Boulder's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

  • GPA requirements
  • Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
  • Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into University of Colorado Boulder and build a strong application.

School location: Boulder, CO

This school is also known as: Colorado

Admissions Rate: 79.6%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at University of Colorado Boulder is 79.6% . For every 100 applicants, 80 are admitted.

image description

This means the school is lightly selective . The school will have their expected requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores. If you meet their requirements, you're almost certain to get an offer of admission. But if you don't meet University of Colorado Boulder's requirements, you'll be one of the unlucky few people who gets rejected.

image description

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Get Into Your Top Choice School

University of Colorado Boulder GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.68

The average GPA at University of Colorado Boulder is 3.68 .

image description

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.68, University of Colorado Boulder requires you to be above average in your high school class. You'll need at least a mix of A's and B's, with more A's than B's. You can compensate for a lower GPA with harder classes, like AP or IB classes. This will show that you're able to handle more difficult academics than the average high school student.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.68, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

University of Colorado Boulder hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to University of Colorado Boulder will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

University of Colorado Boulder SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1251

The average SAT score composite at University of Colorado Boulder is a 1251 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes University of Colorado Boulder Competitive for SAT test scores.

image description

University of Colorado Boulder SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1180, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1380. In other words, a 1180 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1380 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

University of Colorado Boulder has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, University of Colorado Boulder will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and University of Colorado Boulder forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1180, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

image description

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Get eBook: 5 Tips for 160+ Points

University of Colorado Boulder ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, University of Colorado Boulder likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 28

The average ACT score at University of Colorado Boulder is 28. This score makes University of Colorado Boulder Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

image description

The 25th percentile ACT score is 25, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 31.

Even though University of Colorado Boulder likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 25 or below, you'll have a harder time getting in, unless you have something else impressive in your application.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 25 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

However, in our research, we found that University of Colorado Boulder does in fact offer an ACT superscore policy . To quote their Admissions Office:

Your highest scores are used in the admission decision. If you take the same test more than once, we combine your scores on each subsection to give you the highest overall score.

Superscoring is powerful to your testing strategy, and you need to make sure you plan your testing accordingly. Of all the scores that University of Colorado Boulder receives, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all ACT test dates you submit .

For example, say you submit the following 4 test scores:

Even though the highest ACT composite you scored on any one test date was 20, University of Colorado Boulder will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 20 to 32 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and University of Colorado Boulder forms your Superscore, you can take the ACT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your ACT score is currently below a 25, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the ACT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the ACT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

image description

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Free eBook: 5 Tips to 4+ Points on the ACT

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

University of Colorado Boulder considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is lightly selective, you have a great shot at getting in, as long as you don't fall well below average . Aim for a 1180 SAT or a 25 ACT or higher, and you'll almost certainly get an offer of admission. As long as you meet the rest of the application requirements below, you'll be a shoo-in.

But if you score below our recommended target score, you may be one of the very few unlucky people to get rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

  • 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
  • 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
  • 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
  • 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
  • 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

  • PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
  • We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
  • Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
  • We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

SAT Free Signup

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of University of Colorado Boulder here.

Application Requirements Overview

  • Common Application Accepted, supplemental forms required
  • Electronic Application Available
  • Essay or Personal Statement Required for all freshmen
  • Letters of Recommendation 1
  • Interview Not required
  • Application Fee $70
  • Fee Waiver Available? Available
  • Other Notes Audition for music program recommended for some freshmen

Testing Requirements

  • SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
  • SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
  • SAT Subject Tests
  • Scores Due in Office January 15

Coursework Requirements

  • Subject Required Years
  • Foreign Language 3
  • Social Studies 3

Deadlines and Early Admissions

  • Offered? Deadline Notification
  • Yes January 15 April 1
  • Yes November 15 February 1

Admissions Office Information

  • Address: 3100 Boulder, CO 80309
  • Phone: (303) 492-6301
  • Fax: (303) 492-7115
  • Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in University of Colorado Boulder, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to University of Colorado Boulder.

image description

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than University of Colorado Boulder. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

image description

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for University of Colorado Boulder, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

image description

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for University of Colorado Boulder, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If University of Colorado Boulder is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

If You Liked Our Advice...

Our experts have written hundreds of useful articles on improving your SAT score and getting into college. You'll definitely find something useful here.

Subscribe to our newsletter to get FREE strategies and guides sent to your email. Learn how to ace the SAT with exclusive tips and insights that we share with our private newsletter subscribers.

You should definitely follow us on social media . You'll get updates on our latest articles right on your feed. Follow us on all of our social networks:

Facebook

University of Colorado Boulder 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 15

You Have: 

University of Colorado Boulder 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essays of 250 words  

Supplemental Essay Type(s):   Why

What do you hope to study, and why, at CU Boulder? Or if you don’t know quite yet, think about your studies so far, extracurricular/after-school activities, jobs, volunteering, future goals, or anything else that has shaped your interests.

This prompt is asking you to: describe what you want to study, explain why you like it so much, and address how you cultivated this interest. The admissions officer reviewing your application will expect you to connect your intended major to some prior experience and/or passion. In other words, tell a story. Lucky for you, we would have advised you to start with an anecdote anyway. The essays that stick with us are the ones that jump off the page with concrete descriptions from real life. What interests you and why? How have you gone about learning more about your major? When did your interest begin? What will this degree allow you to do? How have you already explored your inclination? While you don’t need to narrow in on the exact moment you became interested in geology or music education, try to focus on one significant experience. And if you’re going in undecided, take some time to explore CU Boulder’s academic offerings and choose a few to highlight in your response. Admissions doesn’t expect you to have your whole life figured out just yet–but they do expect you to put time and energy into your response.  

About Kat Stubing

View all posts by Kat Stubing »

Ivy Divider

We thought you might.

Contact us for information on rates and more!

  • I am a * Student Parent Potential Partner School Counselor Private College Counselor
  • Name * First Last
  • Phone Type Mobile Landline
  • Street Address
  • Address City State / Province / Region Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
  • Which best describes you (or your child)? High school senior High school junior College student College grad Other
  • How did you find CEA? Internet Search New York Times Guidance counselor/school Social Media YouTube Friend Special Event Delehey College Consulting Other
  • Common App and Coalition Essays
  • Supplemental Essays
  • University of California Essays
  • University of Texas Essays
  • Resume Review
  • Post-Grad Essays
  • Specialized Services
  • Waitlist Letters
  • School list with priorities noted:
  • Anything else we should know?
  • Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • Agnes Scott College
  • Alvernia University
  • American University
  • Amherst College
  • Babson College
  • Bard College
  • Barnard College
  • Baylor University
  • Bennington College
  • Bentley University
  • Berry College
  • Bethany College
  • Bishop’s University
  • Boston College
  • Boston University (BU)
  • Bowdoin College
  • Brandeis University
  • Brown University
  • Bryn Mawr College
  • Bucknell University
  • Butler University
  • California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
  • California Lutheran University
  • Capitol Technology University
  • Carleton College
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Catawba College
  • Centre College
  • Chapman University
  • Claremont McKenna College
  • Clark University
  • College of Mount Saint Vincent
  • College of William and Mary
  • College of Wooster
  • Colorado College
  • Colorado School of Mines
  • Columbia University
  • Cornell University
  • Culver-Stockton College
  • D'Youville University
  • Dartmouth College
  • Davidson College
  • Drexel University
  • Duke University
  • Earlham College
  • Elon University
  • Emerson College
  • Emory University
  • Flagler College
  • Fordham University
  • George Mason University
  • Georgetown University
  • Georgia State University
  • Georgia Tech
  • Gonzaga University
  • Harvard University
  • Harvey Mudd College
  • Haverford College
  • Hillsdale College
  • Hofstra University
  • Illinois Institute of Technology
  • Illinois Wesleyan University
  • Indiana University Bloomington
  • Ithaca College
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Kalamazoo College
  • Lafayette College
  • Lehigh University
  • Lewis and Clark College
  • Linfield University
  • Loyola Marymount University (LMU)
  • Lynn University
  • Macalester College
  • Malone University
  • Manchester University
  • Marist College
  • Mary Baldwin University
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  • Meredith College
  • Monmouth College
  • Moravian University
  • Morehouse College
  • Mount Holyoke College
  • New York University (NYU)
  • North Park University
  • Northwestern University
  • Occidental College
  • Oklahoma City University
  • Olin College of Engineering
  • Pepperdine University
  • Pitzer College
  • Pomona College
  • Princeton University
  • Providence College
  • Purdue University
  • Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
  • Rice University
  • Saint Elizabeth University
  • Santa Clara University
  • Sarah Lawrence College
  • Scripps College
  • Seattle Pacific University
  • Smith College
  • Soka University of America
  • Southern Methodist University
  • St. John’s College
  • Stanford University
  • Stonehill College
  • Swarthmore College
  • Syracuse University
  • Texas A&M University
  • Texas Christian University
  • The College of Idaho
  • The George Washington University
  • The New School
  • Trinity College
  • Tufts University
  • Tulane University
  • University of California
  • University of Central Florida (UCF)
  • University of Chicago
  • University of Cincinnati
  • University of Colorado Boulder
  • University of Florida
  • University of Georgia
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • University of Maryland
  • University of Massachusetts Amherst
  • University of Miami
  • University of Michigan
  • University of Minnesota
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
  • University of North Carolina at Charlotte
  • University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  • University of Notre Dame
  • University of Oklahoma
  • University of Oregon
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Pittsburgh
  • University of Richmond
  • University of San Diego
  • University of San Francisco
  • University of Southern California (USC)
  • University of Texas at Austin
  • University of Tulsa
  • University of Vermont
  • University of Virginia (UVA)
  • University of Washington
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • Vanderbilt University
  • Vassar College
  • Villanova University
  • Virginia Tech
  • Wake Forest University
  • Washington and Lee University
  • Washington University in St. Louis
  • Wellesley College
  • Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)
  • Yale University

Email

Want free stuff?

We thought so. Sign up for free instructional videos, guides, worksheets and more!

cu boulder essay requirements

One-On-One Advising

Common App Essay Guide

Common App Essay Prompt Guide

Common App Essay Guide

Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

YouTube Tutorials

  • YouTube Tutorials
  • Our Approach & Team
  • Undergraduate Testimonials
  • Postgraduate Testimonials
  • Where Our Students Get In
  • CEA Gives Back
  • Undergraduate Admissions
  • Graduate Admissions
  • Private School Admissions
  • International Student Admissions
  • Common App Essay Guide
  • Supplemental Essay Guides
  • Coalition App Guide
  • The CEA Podcast
  • Admissions Stats
  • Notification Trackers
  • Deadline Databases
  • College Essay Examples
  • Academy and Worksheets
  • Get Started
  • Quick Links
  • Campus Directory
  • Events Calendar
  • Human Resources
  • Student Services
  • Auraria Library
  • Emergency Management & Campus Safety
  • University Policies
  • Public Health Resources

Schools & Colleges

  • College of Architecture and Planning
  • College of Arts & Media
  • Business School
  • School of Education & Human Development
  • College of Engineering, Design and Computing
  • College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  • School of Public Affairs

Campus Affiliates

  • CU Anschutz Medical Campus
  • CU Colorado Springs

Undergraduate Admissions

First-year students, first-year admission requirements.

​Our students are among the best and brightest - motivated individuals who are driven to pursue their passion. The middle 50% of our admitted freshmen had between a 3.23 and 3.93 GPA and scored between a 1070 and 1260 on the SAT, 21-27 on the ACT. CU Denver students are some of the most academically talented in the state.  Learn more about what it will take to join their ranks as a CU Denver student .

Please note:  Submitting test scores is optional, and won't negatively impact your application.  Review our FAQ  for more information.

Not sure if you should apply as a first-year or transfer student ? Let's start with this. Have you previously taken college classes? You may have heard the term concurrent enrollment. If your only college coursework was taken concurrently, which means while you were still enrolled in high school before you graduated, you're in the right place. Your application will be evaluated for admission as a first-year student.

General Admission

General admission applies to programs in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), the School of Public Affairs (SPA), and the College of Arts & Media (CAM), except for music.

Several criteria indicate you're a strong candidate for general admission.

  • Your GPA and test scores fall into or above our middle 50%
  • You've completed all HEAR requirements
  • You have no more than two MAPS unit deficiencies

Higher Education Admission Requirements (HEAR)

The state of Colorado Higher Education Admission Requirements (HEAR) apply to students graduating from high school in 2008 or later. The HEAR requirements are specific courses or units that applicants for admission should have completed by the time they graduate from high school. College courses taken while still in high school may be considered toward fulfilling these requirements.

High school course or unit requirements are different depending on graduation year.

Class of 2008 or 2009 

  • Four years of English
  • Three years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher)
  • Three years of social studies (including one year of U.S or World History)
  • Three years of natural science (two of which are lab-based)
  • Two years of academic elective

Class of 2010 or Later

  • Four years of mathematics (three of which must be Algebra I or higher)
  • Three years of social studies (including one year of U.S. or World History)
  • One year of a single foreign language

​Minimum Academic Preparation Standards (MAPS)

The University of Colorado Minimum Academic Preparation Standards (MAPS) apply to students who graduated from high school in 1988 or later. Though completion of most MAPS requirements is expected by high school graduation, units not completed may be made up by taking specific CU Denver courses.

  • Four years of English (at least two years of composition)
  • Three years of mathematics (four years for business and engineering students)
  • Three years of natural science
  • Two years of social science
  • Two years of foreign language (same language)
  • One year of academic elective​

Still have questions? Admissions counselors have answers.

Appointments are strongly encouraged to ensure guaranteed time with an admission counselor. Walk-Ins are available during business hours, subject to admission counselor availability.

Monday through Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm

Ready to apply?

Student Commons Building

1201 Larimer Street

Denver, CO 80204

[email protected]

303-315-2601

  • Digital Education
  • Disability Resources
  • Financial Aid & Scholarships
  • International Affairs
  • Veterans & Military
  • Anschutz Medical Campus
  • College of Architecture & Planning
  • College of Engineering, Design & Computing
  • College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

cu boulder essay requirements

John N. Williams

Constant customer Assistance

  • Article Sample
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy

Margurite J. Perez

Testimonials

cu boulder essay requirements

Who are your essay writers?

Can i pay someone to write my essay.

Time does not stand still and the service is being modernized at an incredible speed. Now the customer can delegate any service and it will be carried out in the best possible way.

Writing essays, abstracts and scientific papers also falls into this category and can be done by another person. In order to use this service, the client needs to ask the professor about the topic of the text, special design preferences, fonts and keywords. Then the person contacts the essay writing site, where the managers tell him about the details of cooperation. You agree on a certain amount that you are ready to give for the work of a professional writer.

A big bonus of such companies is that you don't have to pay money when ordering. You first receive a ready-made version of the essay, check it for errors, plagiarism and the accuracy of the information, and only then transfer funds to a bank card. This allows users not to worry about the site not fulfilling the agreements.

Go to the website and choose the option you need to get the ideal job, and in the future, the best mark and teacher's admiration.

Finished Papers

Customer Reviews

Finished Papers

cu boulder essay requirements

  • Skip to Content
  • Catalog Home
  • Institution Home

University of Colorado Boulder

  • Undergraduate Catalog /
  • Admissions /

Higher Education Admission Recommendations

General coursework details, world/foreign language.

First-year and transfer students applying to undergraduate programs are strongly encouraged to meet the following Higher Education Admission Recommendations (HEAR) when applying to any Colorado four-year public college or university. Students with enrollments prior to Summer 2023 will be held to the previous CU Boulder MAPS requirements. Please consult the catalog of your first enrollment term for the MAPS requirements of the college/school/program in which you are earning your degree. (See catalog archive .)

CU Boulder's Recommendations to Meet HEAR

  • One year of a high school course or one semester of a college course equals one unit.
  • Grades of C- or better are preferred. Grades of D, F or P (pass) may not be competitive in a selective admission environment.
  • Students not meeting HEAR may be considered for admission on an individual basis based on the rigor of units completed as well as other admission criteria (e.g., test scores [optional], GPA and world language proficiency). ​

Unrelated to the admissions process, students will need to fulfill certain courses to meet CU Boulder’s graduation requirements. 

In order to have the world/foreign language graduation requirement satisfied through high school coursework, students are strongly encouraged to take three consecutive years of the same world/foreign language and up to third level proficiency in high school regardless of what major they are applying to. 

If a student has only taken one or two consecutive years of the same world/foreign language in high school, the third year must be taken once enrolled at CU Boulder and the credit hours will be applied towards graduation.

The graduation requirement in world/foreign language for the following colleges, schools and programs may be found below:

​Third-Level Proficiency

  • College of Arts & Sciences
  • College of Media, Communication & Information
  • College of Music - BA
  • School of Education
  • College of Engineering & Applied Science
  • College of Music - BM and BME
  • Leeds School of Business
  • Program in Environmental Design

Print Options

Print this page.

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

The PDF will include all pages of the 2023-24 CU Boulder Catalog.

Avail our cheap essay writer service in just 4 simple steps

What's the minimum time you need to complete my order.

We use cookies. By browsing the site, you agree to it. Read more »

Customer Reviews

Remember, the longer the due date, the lower the price. Place your order in advance for a discussion post with our paper writing services to save money!

Customer Reviews

Allene W. Leflore

cu boulder essay requirements

Finished Papers

Check your email for notifications. Once your essay is complete, double-check it to see if it falls under your expectations and if satisfied-release the funds to your writer. Keep in mind that our essay writing service has a free revisions policy.

Skip to Content

Other ways to search:

  • Events Calendar

Apply for the 2024 term

How to Transfer     Transfer Application

At CU Boulder, we believe in opportunity. It signals possibility, a moment that allows you to fulfill your potential. Here, you can find opportunity in your community by meeting people who can help you open new doors. You can find opportunity in your environment because our campus is a place that provides inspiration and encourages you to explore and grow. Finally, you’ll find opportunity in your education because CU Boulder allows you to customize your education and be involved in hands-on, faculty research. And this path is the foundation for your future.

Here at CU Boulder, opportunity is everywhere.

Interested in learning more about CU Boulder?

Request Undergraduate Info   Request Graduate Info

first year students

First-Year Students

You are considered a first-year student if you have not enrolled at another college or university since graduating from high school.

  • First-Year Admissions
  • How to Apply as a First-Year Student
  • Next Steps for First-Year Students

transfer students

Transfer Students

You are considered a transfer student if you have enrolled at another college or university since graduating from high school.

  • Follow the Transfer Timeline
  • Learn More about Transfer Credits
  • How to Apply as a Transfer
  • Next Steps for Transfer Students

Student in lab

Graduate Students

You are considered a graduate student if you have earned a bachelor's degree and are pursuing an advanced degree in a specific field.

  • Graduate Admissions
  • How to Apply as a Graduate Student
  • Next Steps for Graduate Students

Applying as an international student?

If you need a visa to be in the U.S., you are considered an international student. U.S. passport and green card holders should apply as U.S. students. Either way, we recommend that you start your exploration of CU Boulder by choosing one of the student types above. This information is applicable to all students. Below, you will find any additional resources that you may need as an international applicant.

Learn More About International Admissions

Discover What's Here

Visit CU Boulder and experience for yourself our spectacular surroundings and the extraordinary opportunities our campus provides. No matter which way you choose—a quick spin around the virtual tour, a campus tour one morning or afternoon, or a whole day visit program—just make sure to take some time to experience one of the best places to live in America.

Browse visit programs

Explore from your home.

Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder

Connect with Us

Your CU Boulder admission counselor will be your primary point of contact with the Office of Admissions. They are here to help you through the application and answer any questions that may arise during the admission process. Reach out to your admission counselor, browse our latest blog content, find out when we will be visiting your area and connect with us @FutureBuffs on social.

Counselor and student with storm troopers surrounding the coffee maker

Find Your Counselor

Student looking at a computer

Read Our Blog

Student taking a selfie with Ralphie

Connect on Social

The University of Colorado does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, political affiliation, or political philosophy. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. You may  view the list of ADA and Title IX coordinators  and  review the Regent policy .

As a student or prospective student at CU Boulder, you have a right to certain information pertaining to financial aid programs, the Clery Act, crime and safety, graduation rates, athletics and other general information such as the costs associated with attending CU Boulder. To view this information visit  colorado.edu/your-right-know .

Apply for Admission

Visit Campus

Support CU Boulder

  • Safety & Health Services
  • COVID-19 Information
  • Campus Communications
  • Emergency Alert System
  • New Student & Family Programs

Getting Around

  • Campus Events
  • Parking & Transportation
  • Visit Information

Information for

  • Faculty & Staff
  • Journalists

Initiatives

  • Business & Industry Collaborations
  • Diversity & Community Engagement
  • Free Speech
  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship
  • Public & Outreach Programs
  • Sustainability
  • Understanding Your Cost of Attendance

IMAGES

  1. Get a Great CU Boulder Application Essay From Our Pros Today!

    cu boulder essay requirements

  2. Get a Great CU Boulder Application Essay From Our Pros Today!

    cu boulder essay requirements

  3. Cu Boulder Supplemental Essay 2023

    cu boulder essay requirements

  4. How To Write The Cu Boulder Supplemental Essay

    cu boulder essay requirements

  5. How You Can Respond to Your CU Boulder Essay Prompt Questions

    cu boulder essay requirements

  6. How To Write The Cu Boulder Supplemental Essay

    cu boulder essay requirements

VIDEO

  1. 10 Lines Essay on Ideal Student in English

  2. Regulation W

  3. Preschool in Hawaii: Higher costs, fewer programs?

  4. 2023.11.14 Council

  5. 2023 ACI Excellence Awards

COMMENTS

  1. First Year How to Apply

    1. Application 2. Application fee 3. Essays 4. Letter of recommendation 5. High school or secondary school transcripts Optional 1. SAT or ACT score Additional Required Materials College of Music Applicants Undocumented Student Applicants Readmit Applicants Questions about applying to CU Boulder? Review FAQs

  2. How to Write the University of Colorado Boulder Essay 2023-2024

    Stretch less here. If your major doesn't relate to your career goals, focus on your passion for your major and your past experiences with your major. When applying to CU Boulder, you likely have academic interests that you are passionate about. Dig into those as you write this essay and let your excitement shine through.

  3. Application Process < University of Colorado Boulder

    Law - Master of Studies in Law (MSL) Law - Juris Doctor of Laws (JD) American Indian Law - Graduate Certificate Civil Rights and Racial Justice - Graduate Certificate Entrepreneurial Law - Graduate Certificate Environmental, Natural Resources and Energy Law - Graduate Certificate Health Law and Policy - Graduate Certificate

  4. What We Look for in Your Application

    First, let's be clear. The core of our review is academics. Why? We are an academic institution after all, and we want to ensure that you are going to be successful here if you're admitted. It's also important to know that we review all applications with their environment and educational context in mind.

  5. Admission Requirements < University of Colorado Boulder

    High school students being recruited as prospective student-athletes are evaluated for admission to CU Boulder based on a minimum high school GPA of 2.50 and projected NCAA Qualifier Status. Transfer students being recruited as prospective student-athletes are evaluated for admissions to CU Boulder utilizing a holistic review process.

  6. Ready? Set. Apply! Your need-to-know guide for the 2024 application

    Students are now require to submit the Common Application Essay (word limit: 250-650) and a short-answer academic interest question (word limit: 250).

  7. How to Write the University of Colorado Boulder Supplemental Essays

    TABLE OF CONTENTS (click to skip ahead) What are the University of Colorado Boulder supplemental essay prompts? How to write each supplemental essay prompt for CU Boulder Prompt #1: "Why major + Why us" essay Want to get a better sense of what CU Boulder is looking for?

  8. University of Colorado Boulder

    Required 650 words The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores?

  9. How to Write the University of Colorado Boulder Essay 2018-2019

    While CU Boulder is a less selective university, with an acceptance rate of 77%, the essay still plays a role in admissions. With the following guide, CollegeVine is here to help provide some tips on how to tackle this essay. CU Boulder Application Essay Prompt. CU Boulder's supplementary essay requires a response of between 250-650 words.

  10. PDF ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

    ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS First-Year Students Students are first-year applicants if they are currently enrolled in high school, or if they have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent and have not enrolled in a college or university since graduation. Admission Criteria

  11. First-Year Student Selection Process

    Grades The grades you have earned while in high school or secondary school play the most important role in determining your competitiveness for admission to the University of Colorado Boulder. Learn more about grades Class Selection Academic rigor in your course selection is also a primary factor that we consider.

  12. University of Colorado Boulder Admission Requirements

    With a GPA of 3.68, University of Colorado Boulder requires you to be above average in your high school class. You'll need at least a mix of A's and B's, with more A's than B's. You can compensate for a lower GPA with harder classes, like AP or IB classes.

  13. 2023-24 University of Colorado Boulder Supplemental Essay Guide

    No Time To Lose! The University of Colorado Boulder Deadline Countdown is on: Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 15 We can help you draft in time for submission! University of Colorado Boulder 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations The Requirements: 1 essays of 250 words Supplemental Essay Type (s): Why

  14. First-Year Admission Requirements

    High school course or unit requirements are different depending on graduation year. Class of 2008 or 2009. Four years of English. Three years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher) Three years of social studies (including one year of U.S or World History) Three years of natural science (two of which are lab-based) Two years of academic elective.

  15. Cu Boulder Essay Requirements

    Cu Boulder Essay Requirements, Bernstein Critique Essay J Judgment Pragmatism Richard, Medical Case Report Sample, Thesis Cashiering System, Cover Letter Pro Forma, Modelos De Curriculum Vitae Em Portugues Word, Apa Format Annotated Bibliography Internet Sources

  16. Cu Boulder Essay Requirements

    Cu Boulder Essay Requirements, Analytical Research Paper Questions, Cover Letter Mckinsey Pdf, 9th Class Essay 2 Paper 2019, Blanche A Streetcar Named Desire Essay, Cover Letter For Internship In Drdo, Research Paper On Electrical Motors

  17. Apply to Graduate School at CU Boulder

    Step 1 Review the minimum admission requirements. Step 2 Learn about the application deadline for your program of interest. Application deadlines differ by program. Step 3 Prepare and gather all required application materials, including standardized test scores and essays. Step 4 Start your application. Learn About Our Graduate Program Offerings

  18. Cu Boulder Essay Requirements

    All of our writers are dedicated to their job and do their best to produce all types of academic papers of superior quality. We have experts even in very specific fields of study, so you will definitely find a writer who can manage your order. Essay, Discussion Board Post, Questions-Answers, Research paper, Coursework, Case Study, Powerpoint ...

  19. Higher Education Admission Recommendations

    First-year and transfer students applying to undergraduate programs are strongly encouraged to meet the following Higher Education Admission Recommendations (HEAR) when applying to any Colorado four-year public college or university. Students with enrollments prior to Summer 2023 will be held to the previous CU Boulder MAPS requirements.

  20. Cu Boulder Essay Requirements

    Cu Boulder Essay Requirements 7Customer reviews Level: Master's, University, College, PHD, High School, Undergraduate Only a Ph.D. professional can handle such a comprehensive project as a dissertation. The best experts are ready to do your dissertation from scratch and guarantee the best result.

  21. Essay Tips

    Focus on the question or topic requested. Be creative, organized and succinct. Show who you are and how you think. Write what you know. Get feedback on drafts from a trusted mentor. Keep to the word limits. Use your own voice. Proofread, edit, spell and grammar check.

  22. Cu Boulder Essay Requirements

    Cu Boulder Essay Requirements, Dissertation Chair Committee, Top 10 Curriculum Vitae Format, How To Properly Write A Book Title, Sample Curriculum Vitae It Professional, Writing Essays About Literature 8th Edition Pdf, Cheap Home Work Editor Sites For University Johan Wideroos

  23. Admissions

    22 seconds left to apply. Learn More Apply Now Admissions At CU Boulder, we believe in opportunity. It signals possibility, a moment that allows you to fulfill your potential. Here, you can find opportunity in your community by meeting people who can help you open new doors.