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University of Colorado Boulder

Boulder, 🇺🇸 United States Public
#97 National #299 QS World #159 THE #201 ARWU
University of Colorado Boulder campus
38,808 students 7% international Suburban $35k - $58k/yr

About University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is a distinguished public research university nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains in Boulder, Colorado. As a Tier 1 research institution and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, CU Boulder offers a world-class education with a strong emphasis on innovation and research. It is a vibrant academic community committed to addressing global challenges and fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

Academics


CU Boulder offers over 150 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs across its nine colleges and schools, many of which are highly ranked globally. Notable programs include aerospace engineering, physics, environmental sciences, and computer science, with strong research ties to institutions like NASA and NOAA. The university emphasizes a hands-on, student-centered approach, encouraging interdisciplinary studies and providing opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research. For instance, the College of Engineering and Applied Science is recognized for its robust co-op opportunities, allowing students to alternate between full-time work and academics.

International Students


CU Boulder is home to a diverse international student body, with over 3,000 international students from more than 100 countries. International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides comprehensive support, including immigration advising, assistance with cultural adjustment, and resources for employment and training options. While specific diversity statistics beyond the overall international student population are not readily available, the university is committed to fostering an inclusive environment. The International English Center (IEC) offers non-degree programs for English as a Second Language, providing academic language training and cultural insights.

Campus & Location


Located in Boulder, consistently ranked as one of the top college towns in the U.S., the campus offers a vibrant and active student life with the Rocky Mountains as a stunning backdrop. The campus features numerous clubs, organizations, intramural sports, and facilities like the University Memorial Center (UMC) and the Center for Community (C4C) with diverse dining options. Boulder provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing, alongside a lively downtown area with shopping and nightlife. The university's commitment to sustainability is also reflected in its campus environment.

Career Outcomes


CU Boulder graduates demonstrate strong employability, with the university maintaining connections with top employers and industries. Career Services assists international students in navigating the U.S. job market, offering resources for job and internship searches, and guidance on work authorization questions. Engineering and computer-related degrees often lead to higher earning potentials, with electrical engineering, computer science, and basic developmental & remedial education being popular degrees among international students. The university also fosters a strong startup culture, with programs like Startup Colorado and the Catalyst for Innovative Design nurturing student entrepreneurs.

Highlights

  • Tier 1 research institution
  • Stunning Rocky Mountain location
  • Strong aerospace and physics programs
  • Diverse international student body
  • Top-ranked college town

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available

Photos

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Programs Offered at University of Colorado Boulder (27)

Offers programs in:

Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science Engineering Humanities Linguistics & Literature Medicine & Health Natural Sciences Physics & Chemistry Social Sciences

Bachelor Programs (8)

Film Studies

Arts

Arts
artsbabachelorbachelor'sbs
48 months English Full-time

$29,000/yr

Biochemistry

STEM

Biochemistry

Health & Medicine
bachelorbiochemistryhealthmedicineunited states
48 months English Full-time

$13,000/yr

Business Administration

Business

Business
english taught bsc business in united statesinternational student bachelor businessbachelor business in united statesstudy business in united statesbusiness administration degree
48 months English Full-time

$13,000/yr

Computer Science

STEM

Computer Science

Computer Science
babachelorbengboulderbs
48 months English Full-time

$13,000/yr

Aerospace Engineering Sciences

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
Engineering programstudy Engineeringbachelor in Engineeringundergraduate Engineeringbachelor of Engineering
48 months English Full-time

$13,000/yr

Environmental Studies

Environmental Science

Environmental Science
bachelor in environmental sciencebachelor's in environmental sciencestudy environmental science in united statesbachelor environmental science in united statesbachelor environmental science in boulder
48 months English Full-time

$13,000/yr

Political Science

Political Science

Political Science
bachelor in political sciencebachelor political sciencestudy political science in united statesbachelor political science in united statespolitical science program in boulder
48 months English Full-time

$13,000/yr

Psychology

Psychology

Psychology
bachelor's psychology in boulderpsychology degreebachelor's psychologybsc psychologyclinical psychology career
48 months English Full-time

$13,000/yr

Master Programs (8)

Architecture

STEM

Architecture

Architecture
architecturegraduatemamastermasters
36 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Business Administration (MBA)

Business

Business
master in businessmaster businessmaster's in businessmaster's businessstudy business in united states
21 months English Full-time

$30,000/yr

Data Science

STEM

Computer Science

Computer Science
computer science careercomputer science mastercomputer science program in boulderdata sciencemaster in computer science
24 months English Full-time

$32,000/yr

Creative Writing

Creative Writing

Creative Writing
creativegraduatemamastermba
24 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Electrical Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
masters in engineeringmasters engineering degreestudy engineering in united statesmasters in engineering in united statesengineering program in boulder
24 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Mechanical Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Mechanical Engineering
engineeringgraduatemastermastersmechanical
24 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Journalism

Journalism

Journalism
bouldercoloradograduatejournalismma
24 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Applied Mathematics

STEM

Mathematics

Mathematics
master's in mathematicsstudy mathematics in united statesmaster's mathematics in united statesmathematics program in bouldermsc mathematics
24 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

PhD Programs (11)

Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology

STEM

Biology

Biology
biologycellular,developmentaldoctor of philosophydoctoral
60 months English Full-time

$32,000/yr

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

STEM

Biology

Biology
biologyecologyecology and evolutionary biologyevolutionaryphd
60 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Chemistry

STEM

Chemistry

Chemistry
doctorate chemistrychemistry in united statesuniversity of colorado boulderdoctorate in chemistryphd chemistry
60 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences

STEM

Earth Sciences

Earth Sciences
doctorate earth sciencesatmospheric and oceanic sciencesearth sciences degree abroadphd earth sciences in united statesinternational earth sciences phd program
60 months English Full-time

$32,000/yr

Economics

STEM

Economics

Economics
economicsphdunited states
60 months English Full-time

$30,000/yr

Environmental Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
phd in EngineeringEngineering phd programPhD Engineeringstudy Engineering in United StatesEngineering phd United States
60 months English Full-time

$32,000/yr

Civil Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
civilengineeringphdunited states
60 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Chemical Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
chemicalchemical engineeringengineeringphdunited states
60 months English Full-time

$32,000/yr

Geological Sciences

STEM

Geology

Physical Sciences
doctordoctoraldoctorategeologicalgeology
60 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

History

History

History
phd in Historydoctorate in Historystudy History in United StatesHistory in BoulderHistory United States university
60 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

Physics

STEM

Physics

Physics
doctoraldoctoratemechanicsphdphysics
60 months English Full-time

$18,000/yr

University of Colorado Boulder Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

6.5+ IELTS
75+ TOEFL
110+ Duolingo
3.2+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Open (60%+)
Intakes January, August
Application Deadline January 15
Tuition (per year) $35k - $58k/yr
Application Fee $70
Teaching Language English
Student : Faculty 19:1
Avg Class Size 97
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

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Frequently Asked Questions About University of Colorado Boulder

Common questions from international students considering University of Colorado Boulder.

What is the acceptance rate at University of Colorado Boulder?

University of Colorado Boulder is classified as "Open (60%+)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does University of Colorado Boulder cost for international students?

Tuition at University of Colorado Boulder ranges from $35k - $58k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.

What is University of Colorado Boulder ranked globally?

University of Colorado Boulder holds the following rankings: QS World #299, Times Higher Education #159, ARWU #201, #97 in United States. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

What English language requirements does University of Colorado Boulder have?

University of Colorado Boulder typically requires IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 75+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at University of Colorado Boulder?

Yes, University of Colorado Boulder offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does University of Colorado Boulder start its semesters?

University of Colorado Boulder has intakes starting in January, August. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does University of Colorado Boulder offer?

University of Colorado Boulder offers 27+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is University of Colorado Boulder located?

University of Colorado Boulder is located in Boulder, United States 🇺🇸. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

What programs does University of Colorado Boulder offer?

For specific details about University of Colorado Boulder, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

How do I apply to University of Colorado Boulder?

For specific details about University of Colorado Boulder, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

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