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2019 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.

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  1. United States Air Force Academy

    • 4 Year
    • USAFA, CO
    • 247
    1 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Freshman: The United States Air Force Academy is not for everyone. It's for those who like a challenge, who like to push their selves, those who constantly strive for greatness and most importantly desire to serve their country. The well-rounded program here has and undoubtedly will produce leaders of character motivated to serve the USA by means of the USAF.
    Read 247 Reviews

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

  2. Colorado College

    • 4 Year
    • Colorado Springs, CO
    • 723
    2 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 723 Reviews

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

  3. Colorado School of Mines

    • 4 Year
    • Golden, CO
    • 819
    3 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Freshman: Colorado school of Mines is a home. The engineering academics are unrivaled by any other public university, the environment is comfortable and beautiful, it’s the perfect place for any engineer major looking for a real challenge while still making the best of life. The amount of clubs and activities offered is unreal and unmatched. The campus is picture perfect, the admin are kind and really try their best to make sure you’re coming in prepared and are willing to help with any issues. The athletic teams are excellent and a good time. It’s an amazing place to be if you’re looking to be an engineer
    Read 819 Reviews

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

    Colorado State University

    • 4 Year
    • Fort Collins, CO
    • 3,643

    Alum: For the most part, I love CSU. Most of the professors are really supportive, intersting, and caring. Parking and financial aid are an absolute joke. It's outrageous I have to pay 600 more a year to park my car and you aren't even guaranteed a spot! Financial aid told me "I need to wake up and realize I can't afford to go to school." If it weren't for the amazing professors and student community and beautiful campus, parking and financial aid would ruin CSU.
    Read 3,643 Reviews

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

  5. University of Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 1,877
    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 1,877 Reviews

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

  6. Regis University

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 993
    5 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Sophomore: I absolutely loved Regis the students and faculty there are amazing! The class sizes are relatively small which allows one to easily connect to their professors, classmates, and comprehend the material easier. The atmosphere is great it’s a small campus and has a very close knit community!
    Read 993 Reviews

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

  7. University of Colorado - Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 1,576
    6 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Junior: UC Denver is not what you would typically consider a University. Auraria Campus is at the heart of Denver right by the popular 16th Street Mall. Being in the middle of Downtown Denver, the school has a sort of non-traditional set up having shared the space that it occupies with two other schools: Denver Metropolitan State University and Community College of Colorado. Expect to be commuting a fair bit between buildings strewn across the Auraria Campus area.

    Because of it's non-traditional set-up downtown, there is not much to be considered "on-campus housing" nor does the school currently have a very prominent Greek Life/fraternity scene save for some specific student organizations.

    The atmosphere of the University itself is great, however. The student body is diverse, the classes make you feel comfortable attending, and the on-campus feeling of safety is reasonable despite it basically sharing that trait with that of Downtown Denver as a whole.
    Read 1,576 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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  9. University of Colorado - Boulder

    • 4 Year
    • Boulder, CO
    • 2,625
    7 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Alum: It is called Boulderland for a reason. It is a little slice of heaven on earth. I 100% recommend joining a sorority/fraternity. I am so blessed that CU has helped me make life long friends. It is a very social setting and right off the bat you will make friends if you are willing to put yourself out there. The school itself is magical to walk through everyday to class and the town is a true college town. Most of the students live on the "hill" and you are literally next door neighbors with all your friends. I am from in-state and out my close friend group of 75 people, mostly everyone is from out of state so it doesn't really feel like a state school. Whenever students visit from other schools on gamedays, they wish they would have gone to CU. It is definitely a work hard play hard environment. I have just graduated, and it is unbelievable how large the Buffs network is. It has helped me tremendously with finding a job right after graduation. GO BUFFS!
    Read 2,625 Reviews

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

  10. Metropolitan State University of Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 2,682
    8 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 2,682 Reviews

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

  11. Adams State University

    • 4 Year
    • Alamosa, CO
    • 522
    9 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
    • C+
      Academics
    • 64% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,888 Net Price
    • 853-1050 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. Colorado State University

    • 4 Year
    • Fort Collins, CO
    • 3,643
    10 Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Colorado

    Alum: For the most part, I love CSU. Most of the professors are really supportive, intersting, and caring. Parking and financial aid are an absolute joke. It's outrageous I have to pay 600 more a year to park my car and you aren't even guaranteed a spot! Financial aid told me "I need to wake up and realize I can't afford to go to school." If it weren't for the amazing professors and student community and beautiful campus, parking and financial aid would ruin CSU.
    Read 3,643 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
    • 1,106

    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 1,106 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
    • 2,035

    Freshman: My name is Lauren Espinoza and it is my first year at the University of Northern Colorado and so far it has been blissful! Coming into college is a big step up, which can be stressful, scary and exciting all at once. UNC, does an extraordinary job at welcoming incoming students. From exposing you to all activities, clubs, etc. that are provided to filling you with important information necessary to help you transition. I enjoy very much how I feel like I am at home at UNC. Everyone, is very helpful, joyful, energetic and funny. I know that I can count on anybody around campus even though I may not know them. There is a variety of places for one to eat, find resources and places to study and do homework. All races, ethnicities, and cultures are presented throughout the country, allowing us to share and experience from one another.Definitely, a perfect match for me and would not want to change a thing.
    Read 2,035 Reviews

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

  18. University of Colorado - Colorado Springs

    • 4 Year
    • Colorado Springs, CO
    • 1,697

    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 1,697 Reviews

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

  19. Fort Lewis College

    • 4 Year
    • Durango, CO
    • 1,028

    Freshman: The scenery itself is beautiful! This made me feel right at home. I love how classes are just right there. Walking distance is about 10-15 minute walk, depending on where your classes are located. It has just the right amount of students who applied here as year, if you compare it to another college, or say university their population is much more than Durango.
    Read 1,028 Reviews

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

  20. Johnson & Wales University - Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 410

    Niche User: The visit I had to Johnson and Wales Denver just a couple days ago was phenomenal. I am a potential recruit for their mens soccer program. I met the coach, Andy Kohel, and was taken on a campus tour with a free lunch included at the student cafeteria. The food was actually good, with great chefs on staff. The tour was led by a student on the Lacrosse team. He was very nice and friendly, with great knowledge on pretty much everything there is to know on campus. The facilities were clean and secure. It'd be really great if I could attend the Denver campus of Johnson and Wales.
    Read 410 Reviews

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

  21. Western Colorado University

    • 4 Year
    • Gunnison, CO
    • 347

    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 347 Reviews

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

  22. Colorado State University - Pueblo

    • 4 Year
    • Pueblo, CO
    • 923

    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 923 Reviews

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

  25. Colorado Christian University

    • 4 Year
    • Lakewood, CO
    • 1,098

    Freshman: My experience with Colorado Christian University can be summarized by the statement that I would highly recommend attending the university! I have only completed a few courses, but my experience has been nothing but positive. From the moment I received my first call from an admissions counselor all the way through enrolling and getting back in the groove of classes, all staff members and professors have been nothing but caring and helpful. I especially admire how the school incorporates a “Biblical Perspective” into every class, relating how that class related to a biblical worldview. If you are seeking a top education with high Christian values, then this school is perfect.
    Read 1,098 Reviews

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

  26. 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?

  27. Red Rocks Community College

    • 4 Year
    • Lakewood, CO
    • 669

    Sophomore: Red Rocks Community College has been a great experience and really helped me get back into the swing of being an adult student. I am thankful for every staff member, professor and administrator as well as every student for making this campus friendly, safe and a way to get an amazing education at a killer price. I will be sad to transfer at the end of this semester!
    Read 669 Reviews

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

  28. Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design

    • 4 Year
    • Lakewood, CO
    • 179

    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 179 Reviews

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

  29. Colorado Technical University - Colorado Springs

    • 4 Year
    • Colorado Springs, CO
    • 1,164

    Junior: What I love about Colorado Technical University is the entire online experience! I was a nervous wreck before applying to this university. However after a rather long deliberation I decided to give them a call. And to my surprise, I have been here for three years now and I am still here today! What I would like to see changed (hopefully soon) is more financial resources provided for the minority students. I really feel like there should be more available, especially for the student whom are excelling in school. I, for one would be completely devastated should I not be able to complete my bachelor’s degree here at CTU due to a shortage on cash.
    Read 1,164 Reviews

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

  32. Colorado Mountain College

    • 4 Year
    • Glenwood Springs, CO
    • 280

    Sophomore: At the Colorado Mountain College in Steamboat Springs, CO, the chance to have a life enhancing experience is obtainable. Being a diverse and active college, there are opportunities to do things that other places may not provide. For example, because this college is in a mountain town, there are a lot of outside activities that one can do to pass the time. Some things that one can do while attending is joining a club, going hiking, swimming, fishing, camping, skiing, snowboarding, biking, and etc. It is located in a beautiful area and the people are friendly. Apart from being affordable, this college also provides not only students, but also people from the community the opportunity to further their education. If you're the type of person who enjoys being outside and wants to obtain a degree, Colorado Mountain College is definitely for you.
    Read 280 Reviews

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

  33. Pueblo Community College

    • 4 Year
    • Pueblo, CO
    • 371

    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 371 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C-
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,744 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  34. Community College of Denver

    • 4 Year
    • Denver, CO
    • 868

    Senior: Really enjoyable school! They help keep you on track to fulfill your ultimate goal! Really nice and friendly people (students and staff). Discussions in classes can get hard at times but everyone seems to be able to respect one another, the overall hardness of the class really depends on your participation and attendance.
    Read 868 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • C-
      Academics
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $8,038 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  35. Sponsored

    Fort Lewis College

    • 4 Year
    • Durango, CO
    • 1,028

    Freshman: The scenery itself is beautiful! This made me feel right at home. I love how classes are just right there. Walking distance is about 10-15 minute walk, depending on where your classes are located. It has just the right amount of students who applied here as year, if you compare it to another college, or say university their population is much more than Durango.
    Read 1,028 Reviews

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

    Colorado Mesa University

    • 4 Year
    • Grand Junction, CO
    • 1,106

    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 1,106 Reviews

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