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Colleges in Colorado

2018 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in ColoradoAbout this List

Explore the hardest colleges to get into ranking based on acceptance rates and SAT/ACT test scores using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Compare the most selective colleges with the lowest acceptance rates and highest SAT/ACT test scores. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

Hardest to Get Into
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  1. Colorado Mesa University

    Ad
    • 4 Year
    • Grand Junction, CO
    • 1,085

    Sophomore: Colorado Mesa University was the right choice for me and I'm sure it is for you too. It is a wonderful school with a beautiful camps and great professors. The class sizes are the perfect size, your professor actually get to know your name and they really care about your education. The student life at CMU is great there's never not an activity going on, and if you don't want to stay on campus there many activities just minutes away from the CMU. Weather you like hiking, mountain biking, skiing, paddle boarding you name it then CMU is the right choice for you. And even if you've never done any of those thing CMU has a wonderful Outdoors program that will take you on trips and teach you the basics. Outdoors activites not for you that's okay we have a great rec gym with racquetball courts, basketball courts, rock climbing wall and even a Olympic size swimming pool. So come check out CMU we'd love to have you join our Mavley. GO MAVS!
    Read 1,085 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 83% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,529 Net Price
    • 870-1090 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  2. Colorado College

    • 4 Year
    • Colorado Springs, CO
    • 720
    1 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Junior: I absolutely love everything the Colorado College (CC) has to offer! From amazing professors who take their time to make sure each and every student understands the material, to the amazing programs we offer such as the 3-2 program, plethora of summer research, Priddy Trips, Venture Grants, and yes even great food!

    What I wish would change is the constant racism we see from the students, to the faculty and staff, and even the professors. Unfortunately it is rampant and very hard to deal with as a Native American on campus. Constant micro-aggressions wherever you go make life in general tough to deal with.
    Read 720 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Academics
    • 16% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,812 Net Price
    • 1220-1430 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  3. United States Air Force Academy

    • 4 Year
    • USAFA, CO
    • 239
    2 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Freshman: Usafa is an amazing campus with exemplary people as well. Everyone is friendly, courteous, dedicated, and eager to learn. Usafa is the place to be if you want to challenge yourself and serve your country.
    Read 239 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Academics
    • 15% Acceptance Rate
    • — Net Price
    • 1220-1410 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  4. Colorado School of Mines

    • 4 Year
    • Golden, CO
    • 812
    3 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Sophomore: The professors put great effort into student's learning and understanding the concepts of the class. The work level is difficult but can be doable with some time management This university was a nice change from high school; since the acceptance rate is moderately low, students try more and put more effort into assignments and group work. While the homework and general schooling can take up much of your time, students still have plenty opportunities to have fun. There are several places to hike in the area as well as multiple fun events put on by the school. Overall, it was and still is a wonderful experience.
    Read 812 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Academics
    • 40% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,097 Net Price
    • 1250-1420 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  6. University of Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 1,859
    4 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Freshman: The extra opportunities at DU are fantastic! Not to mention the personable size, phenomenally balanced and experienced professors, and stellar location, the Honors Program and Pioneer Leadership Program add extra communities and "niches," if you will, in the school. I'm a freshman this year, and my expectations were exceeded because of these great programs! I'm so excited for what's to come in these next four years. DU has something for everyone, and responds SO well to self activism.
    Read 1,859 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Academics
    • 53% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,940 Net Price
    • 1110-1310 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  7. Regis University

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 986
    5 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Niche User: Regis University was amazing! The campus is beautiful, the perfect size. The people/students there are so nice and helpful. It is the perfect place to study, in my opinion. I absolutely love everything about Regis. I love the values, the campus, the students, the staff. I love the idea that it is a teaching university only, more time to spend with friends and professors.
    Read 986 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B
      Academics
    • 57% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,505 Net Price
    • 950-1170 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  8. University of Colorado - Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 1,559
    6 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    College Sophomore: My experience at CU Denver has surpassed my expectations. I was terrified when I first started, but today I am completely in love with my classes, my teachers, my friends, and the overall campus! My favorite experiences so far have been the community events organized by the campus. The first week always consists of different activities and events everyday so that students can gather around the campus, get to know others, learn about clubs/activities, and get food and school themed clothes as well. My campus has a block party in Denver since it's right across the street where music and food is provided, along with tables and tents promoting all the clubs and organizations available on campus. These events continue throughout the year and make it fun and exciting to try new things.
    Read 1,559 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B+
      Academics
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,751 Net Price
    • 960-1190 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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  10. University of Colorado - Boulder

    • 4 Year
    • Boulder, CO
    • 2,585
    7 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Sophomore: I love Boulder! Anyone and everyone is welcomed to be themselves regardless of their affiliations! The school does a fantastic job of making students proud of their school with the beautiful campus and enthusiastic culture. You find that CU alumns are all around the country, eager to return your "Go Buffs!" with one of their own. Your college experience is what you make of it. You are free to either party all the time, work-hard, or find a healthy medium. Boulder students know how to get involved in the outdoors so it is not difficult to find someone to bike with, hike with, or relax on lawns in the sunshine with. CU looks massive on paper, but it immediately felt like a second home.
    Read 2,585 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Academics
    • 77% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,727 Net Price
    • 1070-1310 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  11. Adams State University

    • 4 Year
    • Alamosa, CO
    • 522
    8 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Sophomore: Adams State University is a forward-thinking and progressive institution placed in a family-friendly neighborhood. The people that inhabit Adams are very warm beings and the professors are truly helpful and compassionate. As an athlete, the school does a good job of taking good care of us but not placing us above the other students. Though based in a small town, Adams is a great institution for any student looking to further the progression of their dreams and goals for numerous reasons!
    Read 522 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Academics
    • 99% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,888 Net Price
    • 853-1050 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  12. Metropolitan State University of Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 2,641
    9 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Junior: I am currently going to Metro, and my experience as a returning student/single mom has been very rewarding. A variety of ages in a diverse ethnic student population allows for a positive learning environment that is open and accepting. Located within easy walking from the tram station, the college is easily accessible and the Professors are truly excited and dedicated to what they are teaching. The level of education enrichment at this school is far and beyond any college or university I have ever attended!
    Read 2,641 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C+
      Academics
    • 64% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,104 Net Price
    • 880-1100 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  13. Fort Lewis College

    Ad
    • 4 Year
    • Durango, CO
    • 1,018

    College Sophomore: The campus is not all that huge, but i love that about it! The location is in the mountains, where everything is so natural and beautiful. There are deer roaming the campus, and occasionally walk with you to class (not exaggerating). The classes are smaller than universities which makes it easier for the professor to get to know the students and help accommodate to their learning abilities and preferences. Professors and helpful and very open minded. There are a wide variety of courses offered, and since it is a liberal arts school, it is important in the curriculum for there to be a little of every subject, not only to learn about your major, but it is important to be well rounded in all subjects, to know and be able to pertain to all information around you. Most professors even love to be involved in outdoor activities with students in clubs, and also have class outside and not in the classrooms most days. It is a great and immersiable experience here at Fort Lewis College.
    Read 1,018 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 92% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,918 Net Price
    • 940-1120 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. Colorado State University

    • 4 Year
    • Fort Collins, CO
    • 3,590
    10 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Alum: Colorado State University met all my expectations for the college I had always imagined going to for my bachelors degree. Unfortunately for me, at the time I had no clue what I wanted out of life and very little passion for the degree I had chosen to study there which was Journalism. I had no direction, no motivation, and no confidence which quickly led to my demise. Finally, over three years later, I now have realized my path and it has absolutely nothing to do with CSU or politics. I am sure it's a great school with tons to offer if you apply yourself, but to be honest I got very little out of my education there and feel like I may have waisted a lot of time and money during my 7 year stint at Colorado State University. But not regrets, it made me exactly who I am today and for that I couldn't be more grateful!
    Read 3,590 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Academics
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,232 Net Price
    • 1020-1250 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  15. Colorado Mesa University

    • 4 Year
    • Grand Junction, CO
    • 1,085

    Sophomore: Colorado Mesa University was the right choice for me and I'm sure it is for you too. It is a wonderful school with a beautiful camps and great professors. The class sizes are the perfect size, your professor actually get to know your name and they really care about your education. The student life at CMU is great there's never not an activity going on, and if you don't want to stay on campus there many activities just minutes away from the CMU. Weather you like hiking, mountain biking, skiing, paddle boarding you name it then CMU is the right choice for you. And even if you've never done any of those thing CMU has a wonderful Outdoors program that will take you on trips and teach you the basics. Outdoors activites not for you that's okay we have a great rec gym with racquetball courts, basketball courts, rock climbing wall and even a Olympic size swimming pool. So come check out CMU we'd love to have you join our Mavley. GO MAVS!
    Read 1,085 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Academics
    • 83% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,529 Net Price
    • 870-1090 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  16. University of Northern Colorado

    • 4 Year
    • Greeley, CO
    • 2,006

    Alum: UNC is a great undergraduate institution. I enjoyed the four years I spent being able to truly discover who I am, what my morals are, and what I would like to do with my life. The challenging factors of UNC include, primarily, the lack of diversity on the campus. While admissions rates regarding marginalized identity based students is on the rise, UNC fails to harbor safe spaces for those who hold those characteristics. All things considered, I would not trade the four years I spent at UNC for anything. I ultimately made magnificent friends, and learned a lot about myself in the process. UNC is on the up and up, and I cannot wait to see where it goes. Go Bears!
    Read 2,006 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B
      Academics
    • 90% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,065 Net Price
    • 928-1150 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  18. Fort Lewis College

    • 4 Year
    • Durango, CO
    • 1,018

    College Sophomore: The campus is not all that huge, but i love that about it! The location is in the mountains, where everything is so natural and beautiful. There are deer roaming the campus, and occasionally walk with you to class (not exaggerating). The classes are smaller than universities which makes it easier for the professor to get to know the students and help accommodate to their learning abilities and preferences. Professors and helpful and very open minded. There are a wide variety of courses offered, and since it is a liberal arts school, it is important in the curriculum for there to be a little of every subject, not only to learn about your major, but it is important to be well rounded in all subjects, to know and be able to pertain to all information around you. Most professors even love to be involved in outdoor activities with students in clubs, and also have class outside and not in the classrooms most days. It is a great and immersiable experience here at Fort Lewis College.
    Read 1,018 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Academics
    • 92% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,918 Net Price
    • 940-1120 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  19. University of Colorado - Colorado Springs

    • 4 Year
    • Colorado Springs, CO
    • 1,664

    Freshman: The University of Colorado-Colorado Springs is a great school to attend. It is a very green school and sustainability is very important here. The classes aren't very large so the professors will get to know you personally. The rec center is phenomenal. There are always activities going on during the week and weekends on campus. There is also a club for everyone! Because of this, everybody has a place that they can feel comfortable and fit in. The people are also amazing. You make new friends all the time and it is a safe, fun environment.
    Read 1,664 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Academics
    • 93% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,248 Net Price
    • 940-1190 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  20. Johnson & Wales University - Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 407

    Freshman: I really like the community feel of JWU, it's not a huge campus with thousands of people, it's more of a community. The student board hosts tons of campus events to get involved in. The class sizes are small so the professors know who you are and work with you on individualized learning. The athletics are great, especially the soccer program!
    Read 407 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C
      Academics
    • 85% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,765 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  21. Western State Colorado University

    • 4 Year
    • Gunnison, CO
    • 344

    Freshman: Western is Colorado's best kept secret. Even though Gunnison is a small town, it has so much potential for growth and has a true small town feel- where everyone smiles and says hello no matter where you go. Classes are engaging and challenging and professors are personable and helpful. There isn't anywhere else I would rather be honestly!
    Read 344 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Academics
    • 97% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,210 Net Price
    • 910-1140 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  22. Colorado Christian University

    • 4 Year
    • Lakewood, CO
    • 1,076

    Sophomore: Colorado Christian University is a top-notch Christian University. They thrive on keeping Jesus Christ Our Lord and Savior first and a great academic level second. Exceptional administration, staff, financial aid, et... I recommend Colorado Christian University to any student who's looking to have a closer Walk With Jesus. Secondly recommend this college to anyone who wants to learn a degree at an exceptional School.
    God bless everyone!
    Paul C. Burdic
    Read 1,076 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • B-
      Academics
    • 94% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,049 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  25. Colorado State University - Pueblo

    • 4 Year
    • Pueblo, CO
    • 905

    Freshman: I have met so many people and made a lot of new friends, including my roommate. These people weren't just people I sat next to in class, they come from so many different backgrounds, but we all shared the same ambitions. Each of my instructors try to get to know their students in not only a learning stance, but personally too. On that note I enjoyed each class of mine, and they all consisted of a decent amount of learners who for the most part, were all there to earn a higher education. Two things that I would like changed is the amount of attention that is needed between the Advisors and Financial Aid. They both are major aspects to my learning, but I found that they both don’t know anything about each other so there was a lot of back and forth between offices I had to do. But all together I have had some great experiences from CSU-P that I would never change, and I am happy to say I go to Colorado State University- Pueblo!
    Read 905 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C+
      Academics
    • 96% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,887 Net Price
    • 870-1060 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  26. Red Rocks Community College

    • 4 Year
    • Lakewood, CO
    • 658

    Alum: RRCC provided good academics and transition between Highh school into a University as it wa challenging but not intemidating. There was diversity and some excellent professors and It was safe and accommodating to working with schedules. There were ,outlying commuters there so not much social interaction. Wish there could have been more activities to bind students together. Overall, it was a good experience I would recommend to others!
    Read 658 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $7,636 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  27. University of Phoenix - Colorado

    • 4 Year
    • Lone Tree, CO
    • 219

    College Freshman: As an online university, I expected to be treated poorly. I ended up being treated like they had known me for years! It was a pleasant experience going through admissions and financial aid.
    Read 219 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C-
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,695 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  28. Colorado Mountain College

    • 4 Year
    • Glenwood Springs, CO
    • 269

    Sophomore: I would recommend this two year college to any Colorado native, or person interested in the outdoors. Choosing to go to CMC is a financially smart option, and the students are fun and passionate. The classes are hands-on and personalized, especially the classes in the outdoor programs. Why not go rock climbing and rafting while achieving an associates degree?!
    Read 269 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C+
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $9,408 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  29. Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design

    • 4 Year
    • Lakewood, CO
    • 174

    Freshman: I enjoy this school a lot so far. The faculty genuinely care about my learning and they don't want to see anyone left behind not knowing anything. Even in the online program the teachers are in touch with students and give specific feedback for how to improve. I just took a super-tough class about perspective drawing, and got all A's because the teacher explained the topics super well and answered all my questions.

    Also, the online format is surprisingly good for interacting with classmates. There are weekly discussions, which if you participate to your full capacity, will give you a strong sense of camaraderie with your classmates.

    As with any school, you reap from RMCAD what you sow in RMCAD. I've been giving all my passion and energy and drive to each assignment and improved my art skills so much already. If you're serious about a career in arts, but you need a flexible schedule and affordable tuition, RMCAD's online program is what you need!
    Read 174 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C+
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,693 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  32. The Art Institute of Colorado

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 352

    Freshman: AIC has to have the BEST admissions directors that I have ever encountered! They help from every part of admissions to registering us for classes! Any questions we may have, they will answer and if you are having any trouble with financing they are willing to help with a great financing program! I am so excited to be apart of their amazing culinary program. I highly suggest looking into all of the programs that this school has to offer!
    Read 352 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,712 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  33. Colorado Technical University - Colorado Springs

    • 4 Year
    • Colorado Springs, CO
    • 1,133

    Graduate Student: My experience here at CTU has been nothing short of amazing! Every time an issue arose whether it was due to my financial aid or scheduling of a class. The CTU came together to resolve the issue, and because of that I will be graduating with my second degree from this institution (third degree all together) and walking proudly across the stage while my 3 small children get to see yet another accomplishment.
    Read 1,133 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C+
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $19,856 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  34. Pueblo Community College

    • 4 Year
    • Pueblo, CO
    • 359

    Niche User: My Name is Marissa. I'm think about going to Pueblo Community College. I have many family and friends that have attend Pueblo Community College. They have many great think to say about this school. My auntie also has work in the Accounting department and loved working there before they moved out of State. She even got my Uncle to help out with Kids College in the summer. He enjoyed helping out with the kids. I'm every excited! to attend Pueblo Community College, can't wait to see where it takes me.
    Read 359 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,744 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
2018 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado