US University · Ranked #80
University of Denver: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
University of Denver is an accessible university in Denver, Colorado with an acceptance rate of roughly 65%, meaning most qualified applicants are admitted. Ranked #80 nationally in our dataset, it is a strong choice for a likely or safety school: meeting the published academic minimums and applying before the deadline puts most students in good standing.
The University of Denver is Colorado's oldest private university, known for its international studies program, strong business school, and access to Rocky Mountain recreation.
This guide breaks down University of Denver's admission requirements, the academic profile of admitted students, how its application deadlines should shape your strategy, and the programs it is best known for — followed by answers to the questions applicants ask most.
University of Denver admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 65%
- SAT range
- 1160–1350
- Average GPA
- 3.6
- In-state
- $58,284
- Out-of-state
- $58,284
- Enrollment
- 5,849
- Type
- Private
- Location
- Denver, Colorado
How hard is it to get into University of Denver?
An acceptance rate of 65% makes University of Denver an accessible school where most qualified applicants are offered admission. For students who meet the published academic minimums, this functions as a likely or safety option. The priority is a complete, accurate, on-time application rather than a polished competitive narrative.
University of Denver is a sensible likely or safety school. Confirm you meet the stated minimums, submit your application early in the cycle, and keep it clean and complete.
Academic profile of admitted students
Admitted students at University of Denver typically score between 1160 and 1350 on the SAT — this is the middle 50% range, so a quarter of enrolled students scored below 1160 and a quarter above 1350. A score at or above 1350 is competitive even at the more selective end of the pool. Alongside test scores, the average GPA of admitted students is approximately 3.6 on a 4.0 scale, indicating that successful applicants generally earned mostly A's in a rigorous course load.
As a planning benchmark, aim for an SAT around 1255 or higher and a GPA at or near 3.6. Scores meaningfully below the 25th percentile (1160) are not disqualifying on their own, but they put more weight on the rest of the application to compensate.
University of Denverapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Early Action: Nov 1
- • Regular Decision: Jan 15
University of Denver offers a non-binding Early Action deadline of Nov 1, with Regular Decision closing Jan 15. Early Action lets you submit early and receive a decision sooner without any obligation to enroll, so there is little downside to applying EA if your application is genuinely ready by Nov 1 — a rushed early application is worse than a strong regular one.
Whichever round you choose, give recommenders at least three to four weeks of notice and budget time for essay revisions — the strongest applications are rarely written in the final week before Jan 15.
Notable programs at University of Denver
- International Studies — a discipline that pairs well with the school's research and internship networks.
- Business — often admitted directly into a named school with its own requirements.
- Engineering — typically a more selective track with specific math and science prerequisites.
- Law — a strong pre-professional and graduate strength for this institution.
- Psychology — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
University of Denver is particularly known for International Studies, Business, Engineering, Law, and Psychology.
Strong programs matter for admissions because many schools admit by college or major, and a credible, specific interest in one of these areas — reflected in your coursework, activities, and essays — is far more persuasive than a generic application.
Cost of attending University of Denver
As a private institution with a single tuition rate for all students, University of Denver charges the same tuition regardless of residency — approximately $58,284 per year. The sticker price is high, but private schools at this level often have substantial need-based aid, so the net price for many families is considerably lower; run the school's net price calculator before ruling it out on cost alone.
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University of Denver: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at University of Denver?
- University of Denver has an acceptance rate of 65%, which makes it accessible. University of Denver is a sensible likely or safety school. Confirm you meet the stated minimums, submit your application early in the cycle, and keep it clean and complete.
- What SAT score do you need for University of Denver?
- Admitted students at University of Denver typically score between 1160 and 1350 on the SAT (the middle 50%). Aiming for 1350 or above makes you competitive, while a score below 1160 puts more weight on the rest of your application.
- What GPA do you need to get into University of Denver?
- The average GPA of admitted students at University of Denver is approximately 3.6 on a 4.0 scale. Competitive applicants generally have mostly A's in a rigorous course load; a GPA at or near 3.6 is the practical target.
- What is the application deadline for University of Denver?
- University of Denver's application deadlines: Early Action is Nov 1 (non-binding); Regular Decision is Jan 15. Submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal problems.
- Is University of Denver a public or private university?
- University of Denver is a private university. Tuition is the same regardless of residency, but need-based aid can substantially lower the net price.
- How much does it cost to attend University of Denver?
- As a private institution with a single tuition rate for all students, University of Denver charges the same tuition regardless of residency — approximately $58,284 per year. The sticker price is high, but private schools at this level often have substantial need-based aid, so the net price for many families is considerably lower; run the school's net price calculator before ruling it out on cost alone.