First-Year Admission Requirements

As one of the most academically accomplished student bodies in the state, CU Denver offers an environment where ambition thrives. ​Our students are among the best and brightest - motivated individuals who are driven to pursue their passion. The middle 50% of our admitted freshmen had between a 3.23 and 3.93 GPA and scored between a 1070 and 1260 on the SAT, 21-27 on the ACT. CU Denver students are some of the most academically talented in the state. Learn more about what it will take to join their ranks as a CU Denver student.

Please note: Submitting test scores is optional, and won’t negatively impact your application. Review our FAQ for more information.

Not sure if you should apply as a first-year or transfer student? Let’s start with this. Have you previously taken college classes? You may have heard the term concurrent enrollment. If your only college coursework was taken concurrently, which means while you were still enrolled in high school before you graduated, you’re in the right place. Your application will be evaluated for admission as a first-year student.

General Admission

General admission applies to programs in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), the School of Public Affairs, the College of Arts and Media (excluding audition-based majors), the Business School, the School of Education and Human Development, and the College of Architecture and Planning. Please note admission to the College of Engineering, Design, and Computing is more competitive than general admission, with particular emphasis on strength in math coursework.

Several criteria indicate if you are a strong candidate for general admission:

• Your GPA and test scores fall into or above our middle 50%

General Educational Development (GED)

If you did not graduate from high school, request official GED test scores be sent directly from the certifying agency to the CU Denver Office of Admissions. CU Denver’s minimum GED consideration threshold is a 145 total score and a 145 in each of the four content areas.

Still have questions? Admissions counselors have answers.

Appointments are strongly encouraged to ensure guaranteed time with an admissions counselor.
Walk-ins are available during business hours, subject to admission counselor availability.

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.