Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO

65.0%

Acceptance Rate

1150

Avg SAT

Avg ACT

3.25

Avg GPA

Colorado State University represents one of America's premier land-grant research institutions, combining world-class academics with an unparalleled quality of life in Fort Collins, one of the nation's most desirable college towns. Founded in 1870, CSU has grown from an agricultural college into a comprehensive research university that addresses global challenges while maintaining the welcoming community atmosphere that defines the Colorado experience. CSU enrolls approximately 34,000 students, including 27,000 undergraduates pursuing degrees across eight colleges. The university attracts students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries, drawn by academic excellence, outdoor recreation opportunities, and the vibrant Fort Collins community. This diverse student body creates a dynamic learning environment where perspectives from around the world enrich classroom discussions and research collaborations. As a Carnegie Classification Research I university, CSU ranks among the nation's leading research institutions with annual research expenditures exceeding $475 million. Faculty and students conduct groundbreaking investigations in atmospheric science, infectious disease, clean energy, cancer research, and numerous other fields. The university's research enterprise creates opportunities for undergraduate involvement that distinguish CSU from peer institutions. Colorado State's commitment to sustainability reflects its location in one of America's most environmentally conscious states. The university has achieved significant reductions in carbon emissions while pursuing ambitious goals for renewable energy and waste reduction. Campus sustainability initiatives provide learning opportunities that prepare students to address environmental challenges in their future careers.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate: 65.0%
SAT Range: 1050–1250
ACT Range: N/A
Avg GPA: 3.25

Campus & Students

Size: N/A
Type: N/A
Student:Faculty: N/A
Setting: N/A

Outcomes & Cost

Graduation Rate: N/A
Retention Rate: N/A
Tuition (In-State): N/A
Tuition (Int'l): N/A

Student Life & Environment

Campus life at CSU balances academic rigor with Colorado's outdoor culture. Football Saturdays at Canvas Stadium bring tens of thousands to campus, with tailgating that starts hours before kickoff. Basketball games pack Moby Arena with students who know the fight song and chants. But recreational sports may matter more to the average student than spectating. The Student Recreation Center ranks among the nation's finest, with climbing walls, pools, fitness equipment, and courts for every interest. The intramural program serves thousands of students in everything from soccer to inner-tube water polo. Campus housing accommodates freshmen in traditional residence halls while upperclassmen typically move to off-campus apartments. The area surrounding campus offers restaurants, coffee shops, and bars that cater to student budgets and tastes. Greek life exists without dominating social culture. Student organizations number in the hundreds, covering interests from sustainability advocacy to professional development. The campus atmosphere leans progressive on environmental and social issues, reflecting both Colorado culture and university research priorities. Mental health services and counseling support students through difficulties that inevitably arise. The overall vibe combines academic seriousness with appreciation for life beyond the classroom.

Location & Surroundings

Fort Collins sits at the northern edge of Colorado's Front Range, about 65 miles north of Denver along Interstate 25. The city of 170,000 has developed its own identity distinct from Denver, with a downtown district that preserves historic character while hosting breweries, restaurants, and local shops. The craft beer scene rivals anywhere in America, anchored by New Belgium and Odell breweries alongside dozens of smaller operations. Horsetooth Reservoir provides water recreation minutes from campus, while Rocky Mountain National Park lies an hour to the west. Hiking and mountain biking trails extend directly from the city into surrounding foothills. Skiing at Eldora, Loveland, and other resorts takes about 90 minutes. The climate delivers over 300 sunny days annually, with cold, dry winters and warm summers. Snow falls regularly from November through April but often melts within days. The altitude, around 5,000 feet, takes adjustment for students from sea level. Denver International Airport serves as the gateway for students flying from other states. The city's economy mixes university employment with technology companies, healthcare, and service industries. Fort Collins consistently ranks among America's happiest, healthiest cities.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Tuition for Colorado residents runs around $12,000 annually for undergraduates, while out-of-state students pay roughly $32,000. Room and board add approximately $14,000 depending on housing choices and meal plan selections. Total cost of attendance thus ranges from about $27,000 for in-state residents to $47,000 for out-of-state students. Merit scholarships reduce these costs for students with strong academic records, while need-based aid supports qualifying families. Graduate assistantships fund many doctoral students. The return on investment proves strong for graduates who leverage CSU's reputation in their fields. Engineering graduates command strong starting salaries in Colorado's technology sector. Veterinary medicine leads to careers throughout the region and beyond. Natural resources graduates find positions with federal and state agencies, conservation organizations, and consulting firms. Business graduates enter companies in Denver and across the mountain west. Career services provides resume reviews, interview preparation, and job fairs that bring employers to campus. The alumni network numbers over 250,000 worldwide, with particularly strong connections throughout Colorado. Graduate school acceptance rates run high for students with solid undergraduate records and research experience.