University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, United States • Founded 1876 • QS 2027 #320 =
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Founded in 1876, the University of Colorado Boulder is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Boulder (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Colorado.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is a very large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 148-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
CU Boulder also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
University of Colorado Boulder's on-the-ground location and digital channels to engage with the institution. Library access for prospective students is often arranged separately through the main library team.
Academic Details
University of Colorado Boulder's student-to-faculty composition and recognition standing are listed below. Student support staff (advisers, counsellors) are typically separate from academic staff and often uncounted here.
Academic Structures
Below: how University of Colorado Boulder organises its faculties and constituent units. Distance learning programmes often sit in a separate division from on-campus teaching, with different administration.
Unit 8 items
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Engineering and Applied Science
- College of Media, Communication and Information
- College of Music
- Leeds School of Business
- Program in Environmental Design
- School of Education
- School of Law
Programs Offered
The programmes available at University of Colorado Boulder are organised by level. Most institutions cluster intake decisions by faculty, so application timelines often run in waves through the year.
225 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 68 programmes
Showing 10 of 68.
Master's Degree 75 programmes
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Doctorate 59 programmes
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Professional Doctorate 2 programmes
Certificate 21 programmes
Showing 10 of 21.
How to apply to University of Colorado Boulder
Step-by-step guidance for applying to University of Colorado Boulder, covering the typical sequence from programme selection to admissions follow-up.
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1
Research programmes at University of Colorado Boulder
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. University of Colorado Boulder offers 225 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Review admissions criteria
Each programme at University of Colorado Boulder has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Lodge your application
Apply directly via University of Colorado Boulder's online portal at www.colorado.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Confirm receipt and track progress
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (303) 492 1411. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Colorado Boulder
Frequently asked questions about University of Colorado Boulder, covering the institutional basics most prospective applicants want to confirm first.
When did University of Colorado Boulder open?
University of Colorado Boulder traces its founding to 1876 (approximately 150 years ago).
In which city is University of Colorado Boulder?
University of Colorado Boulder is based in Boulder, United States.
Is University of Colorado Boulder a public or private institution?
University of Colorado Boulder operates as a public institution.
How many students study at University of Colorado Boulder?
University of Colorado Boulder has approximately 31,939 students.
Where does University of Colorado Boulder stand in university rankings?
University of Colorado Boulder is ranked QS 2027 #320 =.
How is University of Colorado Boulder organised academically?
The institution comprises 8 academic units.
Is University of Colorado Boulder accredited?
Yes, University of Colorado Boulder is recognised by Higher Learning Commission.
How do I find University of Colorado Boulder online?
The institution's website is www.colorado.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Selectivity at the top the United States universities sets admissions baseline expectations for students applying to University of Colorado Boulder. The selectivity gap between University of Colorado Boulder and the leaders below tells you about admissions context.
Members of Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)
These universities are also members of Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA).
Faculties at nearby universities
These universities are located near University of Colorado Boulder, listed below for students comparing options by location.
Where Else to Study Linguistics & Language Studies
Universities in the United States with Linguistics & Language Studies programmes appear below, alongside University of Colorado Boulder.
Universities Compared with University of Colorado Boulder
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Studying in United States: guides and resources
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