2023 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

• Colorado Springs, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  784 reviews

Sophomore: I like Colorado College, and the block plan and small size really intrigued me into coming here, even though I'm not a native Coloradan. It's definitely a great location if you love the outdoors. Those are the main reasons I chose this school. I quickly learned that I could fit in here! However, from being here for two months, I have noticed some of the struggles the area and the school has, including housing and crime. Many cities have these issues, but CC in the Greater Colorado Springs area has tried to fix them to a degree, but there's clearly still work to be done... Not to be too pessimistic, however, I will say though that I've met many really nice people on CC's campus, especially the students, although I do tend to see the liberal and privileged side of things in a simple classroom environment often. I would say for this school to truly be diverse as they say, CC needs more diverse viewpoints as a whole. For now, CC has an amazing mathematics department, and that's my major.... Read 784 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $27,319

• SAT range —

• Usaf Academy, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  281 reviews

Alum: What an amazing experience I do not want to repeat! Just like many experiences in the military, the time at the Academy is one of the most fun and unique experiences you never want to have again. From the application process, USAFA (among the other service academies) is set apart from a regular public university. Requiring congressional nominations to high SAT/ACT requirements, above-average GPA is a must, physical fitness, and leadership and community involvement are highly emphasized. The academics at USAFA is not only the top tier, but the faculty is of the highest caliber. Most classes have less than 20 cadets, allowing instructors/professors to devote a significant amount of attention to each student, they are exceptional in terms of availability and assistance. The Air Force Academy cadets and professors are heavily involved with research, heavily involved with AF partners across different industries in space and aerospace systems amongst others. Truly top tier!... Read 281 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price —

• SAT range 1220-1430

• Golden, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  944 reviews

Freshman: Colorado School of Mines is a perfect school for those who are seeking to learn from others, are inspired by innovation and technology, and are driven to achieve. Yes, it is a very academically rigorous school but there are so many fun events, great resources, and support offered and the community is so supportive. I love going to a smaller school and being able to get involved in my school community and get a substantial amount of professional and career advice already just as a first-year undergrad!... Read 944 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 55%

• Net price $27,675

• SAT range 1270-1440

• Denver, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  2,029 reviews

Alum: Oh man, I’m disheartened to see so many negative reviews! Granted, I graduated a few years before COVID so didn’t have to deal with online learning. My four years at DU were the best years of my life. I agree with others that many students are white, rich, and privileged; I came from a very urban, very diverse neighborhood and though at times I really felt the divide between me and my richer friends, it didn’t stop me from having a good time. At least when I attended in 2012, as a social sciences student, everyone in my classes was super chill. I had a great experience with the Criminology department. Loved all my classes and professors. Campus is stunning. Though the undergrad population is small, I never felt like campus itself was small. As for nightlife, I got away with four years of college never having a fake ID. We went to the Stad senior year, but otherwise, house parties were the way to go. By junior year, downtown Denver was a quick light rail or Uber ride away.... Read 2,029 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $38,322

• SAT range 1170-1360

• Denver, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  1,825 reviews

Graduate Student: The University of Colorado Denver has a uniquely diverse and community-oriented campus that is made up of many cultures, backgrounds and orientations with a dedicated drive to engage everyone with one another for a satisfying college journey. There are various fields and areas of studies to choose from and passionate professors and advisors that will excel at guiding you towards the right direction of your education and fundamentally, career path. I got my undergrad degree and now pursuing my graduate degree from the same campus. I feel like I have emotionally, physically, critically and most importantly, professionally grown with the university and utilized the many resources that come with the experience. It is one of the best investments I've made and recommend anybody that is considering this university to go for it! You will not regret it.... Read 1,825 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $15,585

• SAT range 1000-1210

• Grand Junction, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,284 reviews

Sophomore: I've had a great experience with CMU in my time there! Of all the professors I've met, I have yet to have a bad experience; most have been very helpful and have shown a clear interest and passion in what they are teaching. When switching majors, the department heads were very informative in helping me decide on what to switch to. When it came time to choose classes, counselors and advisors were always very helpful and knowledgeable on what classes I needed to take to fulfill requirements and how to plan out future schedules. Overall a good experience!... Read 1,284 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $15,327

• SAT range 930-1170

• Denver, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,135 reviews

Sophomore: I am loving everything about Regis University so far! The professors are very knowledgeable and passionate about their area of focus. There are tons of helpful resources for student, some of which includes free tutoring and career counseling. Everyone is very welcoming and friendly!... Read 1,135 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $27,785

• SAT range 1000-1220

• Boulder, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  3,026 reviews

Freshman: I was a part of Boulders Pre-Colligarte Program which involved Juniors in Highschool to come down to a university and experience the life of a college student. The academics were amazing and easy to follow, the food tasted great, something new every week! Since Colorado was in its heat wave era, the dorms were extremely hot, fans were needed since air conditioning was not provided. Overall very safe, amazing area to have fun and relax with friends. Plenty of security in the area doing sweeps, even at night, and overall nice people.... Read 3,026 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $21,198

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Fort Collins, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  4,161 reviews

Senior: Overall, I have greatly enjoyed my time at Colorado State! There is an incredible community of supportive people and excellent opportunities, especially within the Warner College of Natural Resources. I have grown so much as a person here, and experienced so many great opportunities, although you definitely get out what you put in. There is such a wide array of groups to become involved in, and there are so many interesting and niche classes you have the opportunity to take. The vast majority of my professors have been passionate, knowledgeable, and understanding. I have yet to meet someone who doesn't absolutely feel satisfied in their choice to attend CSU. Additionally, the Ft. Collins area is very welcoming to students, and you will never be bored between the great nightlife and beautiful options for outdoor activities.... Read 4,161 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $17,609

• SAT range 1070-1280

• Denver, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,011 reviews

Senior: MSU Denver is a great, affordable full university. I'm an undergrad, but I've heard great things about their full graduate school, too. It has a great reputation locally and it seems to be growing regionally and in various industries, expecially aviation and aerospace. Professors and instructors care about your success and many of them are incredibly well-connected. It's a commuter college and it's very diverse and inclusive, so you may not have the archetypical college experience, but it will be a great experience if you make the most of it. Food trucks even stop by the King Center every week!... Read 3,011 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $13,563

• SAT range 870-1090

• Greeley, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  2,252 reviews

Junior: UNCO is an excellent school with a strong sense of community. Students are friendly with each other, there are ample clubs and groups to join on campus, and many of the professors are happy to work with students individually and provide resources and help. There are many dorm halls so students won't have to worry about being unable to find housing. The dining hall food is average at best, but luckily there are other dining options such as Einstein's Bagels, Subway, Starbucks, and more being constructed. The campus is walkable too, with lots of green areas and even a frisbee golf course. Personally, I'm having a lot of fun in my classes and have made lots of friends, so I'm excited to complete my degree here!... Read 2,252 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $16,510

• SAT range 980-1200

• Colorado Springs, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,919 reviews

Freshman: Overall, a great school! UCCS offered me a great way to start my four-year degree at a higher level than a community college, without spending a fortune on tuition. My experience with the faculty/campus services has been excellent, and there are lots of resources available to students from any background. However, these resources can sometimes be difficult to find and access. Otherwise, an excellent school to dip your toes into the first-year college experience, possibly as a launchpad to transfer to another school later in your degree.... Read 1,919 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $15,852

• SAT range 1020-1230

• Gunnison, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  391 reviews

Sophomore: I love WCU, my freshman year was better than I could've wished for. Western has given me quality education and all my best friends. Through Western I have been granted endless support in all aspects, mentally, academically, athletically and socially. I am a proud mountaineer and I am so blessed to represent Western as apart of their swim team, elementary education program as well as honors program... Read 391 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $16,951

• SAT range 1000-1190

• Durango, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,160 reviews

Senior: I'm so happy I chose FLC! The community is diverse and accepting, the campus is beautiful, the classes are manageable, and the faculty and staff are amazing. It's really like a family here on campus. My department has supported me in both academic and personal areas, and I've gown very close with several faculty members. Throughout my degree the administration has helped me construct my schedule so that I can graduate with a double-major on time, and has made sure I've always had what I needed. I'm proud to soon be a Fort Lewis graduate and I'll miss it for sure.... Read 1,160 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $15,723

• SAT range 950-1170

• Pueblo, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,029 reviews

Junior: I'm in the wildlife and natural resources program. Im a junior and I've enjoyed my time studying here and am excited to learn more. The professors care a lot about the students and make sure you're grasping the concepts, and will offer help if you need it. Highly reccomend!... Read 1,029 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $13,388

• SAT range 910-1110

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  276 reviews

Graduate Student: I returned to college in my late 40s; I am so glad I chose Colorado State University-Global because they have an excellent support system for students to succeed and graduate! Since the terms are eight weeks and not the traditional 16 weeks, the terms are intense and require good time management and dedication to your studies. The professors at CSU Global are phenomenal. They know that most of their students are juggling their work, home, and personal lives while pursuing their education. The professors take the time to work with students that are struggling to balance it all.... Read 276 reviews

• grade unavailable

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $14,024

• SAT range 920-1170

• Alamosa, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.45 out of 5  591 reviews

Freshman: The environment is very nice, everybody is very welcoming and friendly. Everybody pushes you to be better and have a good time . Makes sure you’re on task and do good!... Read 591 reviews

• grade C

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,193

• SAT range 890-1090

• Lakewood, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,315 reviews

Alum: Colorado Christian University was by far the best college! They had a great teaching program which actively got you into the classroom starting your freshman year. I transferred in my junior year and was blessed by how much effort and kindness they showed me. Although the chapel requirements seemed lengthy, they were not and easily obtainable. I would highly recommend Colorado Christian University as a college as a whole but particularly for a teaching pursuit.... Read 1,315 reviews

• grade B

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $25,882

• SAT range —

• Colorado Springs, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  1,531 reviews

Freshman: am doing ALL of my classes on- line, which is very convenient. We all have success coaches. Financial aid is very supportive. I am in the process of working on my bachelor's degree in Science of Business Administration with three concentrations. I have already received my associate's degree from Colorado Technical university. They are supportive if you are sick or if life just happens. As long as you let them know what is going on in your life they will work with you about your classes. Colorado Technical university- global campus offers fast track classes. If you are curious what Fast track classes are- they are classes you can take at predetermined times that you can schedule to take, and if you pass that class, you will not have to pay for that class! To me that is Awesome! All the professors are truly willing to help if you have any questions. They offer tutoring free of charge. There is library resources and a social meeting place for students. Good luck to all... Read 1,531 reviews

• grade C

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,048

• SAT range —

• Lakewood, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  361 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a student of the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design; for years I have dreamt of going and experiencing an Art College, as life took its course, and to the current day I find myself immersed in the collective learning categories altogether. Ranging from the warm kindness of classmates and mentors, the helpful critique, to a paced passion for creativity. It is a refreshingly inspirational College that I was blessed to be accepted into. I couldn't ask for more! I am always eagerly excited to continue my creative expressiveness upon a multitude of canvases. Learning these techniques and terms has opened my eyes to what my talent and love for art are truly worth. No matter your doubt that your creative skill isn't good enough, you truly learn that it in fact is special in its own way, and will always be outstanding. Confidence is key! And learning how to wield your passion, comes with such satisfaction.... Read 361 reviews

• grade C+

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $18,511

• SAT range —

• Glenwood Springs, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  340 reviews

Freshman: I did classes at CMC to earn a associates degree before transferring to a larger university to get my bachelors. The community is great! The teachers are supper supportive and understanding creating a good learning environment in and out of the class room. I found it super useful that I could get my associates for very cheap and still get a good basic education, there are tons of classes at different times so it’s very flexible and easy to get started and keep up with even as a dual enrollment or part time student.... Read 340 reviews

• grade C+

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,784

• SAT range —

• Denver, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.45 out of 5  94 reviews

Alum: Aspen University is an institution that makes learning accessible to everyone. It is affordable and provides a unique opportunity for many students to graduate with no loans. Study structure is good and also very challenging preparing you for the job market as well as personal development. You study at your pace but once you start a course, it must be completed in about 2months with a weekly submission of papers and contributions to the discussion board. You must work hard. I love Aspen University and I recommend it to everyone trying to pursue a quality education.... Read 94 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,779

• SAT range —

• Aurora, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  69 reviews

Freshman: I appreciate that many of our instructors are currently also working in the nursing field and many others are currently pursuing their Masters or Doctoral Degrees. While the tuition is a bit higher than other BSN programs, their process for transfer credits was simple and their financial aid team is spectacular. The administrative team takes time to engage with all students and requests course feedback at the end of each quarter. The pace is fast being an accelerated program, but there are many resources available to students and the faculty goes the extra mile to make themselves available to assist. The smaller classes (less than 25 students per cohort) makes it so that everyone gets one on one instruction and offers ample time to address questions and concerns.... Read 69 reviews

• grade B+

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $41,735

• SAT range —

• Boulder, CO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  119 reviews

Alum: My experience at Naropa was truly life changing. This is where the alchemy of my very being took place. I was able to dive into all of my passions (environmental studies, peace studies, yoga, and so much more). The professors here are incredible mentors and teachers. The community is one I miss so much after graduating. I made so many amazing friends and memories at Naropa.... Read 119 reviews

• grade C

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $30,725

• SAT range —