Colorado State University-Fort Collins
The Vibe Check
Colorado State University pulses with a laid-back, adventurous spirit rooted in its 'Fort Fun' location, blending rigorous academics with a deep connection to the outdoors. The campus buzzes with school spirit, particularly around Division I athletics, while maintaining a welcoming, collaborative atmosphere where students support each other's success.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1185
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 26
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
CSU is a national leader in atmospheric science, biology, and agriculture, supported by its land-grant mission and cutting-edge research facilities like the Powerhouse Energy Campus. Professors are known for being accessible and focused on hands-on learning, with abundant undergraduate research opportunities through programs like the Office of Undergraduate Research and Artistry.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Fort Collins
Fort Collins is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with students frequently biking to Horsetooth Reservoir, hiking in the foothills, or skiing in the nearby Rockies. The vibrant downtown 'Old Town' district offers a lively scene with craft breweries, coffee shops, live music venues, and the annual NewWestFest, all within a walkable, bike-friendly community.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($60,543):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
CSU has a dedicated on-campus police force and offers a robust campus-wide alert system, fostering a secure environment. Fort Collins is consistently ranked as one of America's safest cities, with a low crime rate relative to its size.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong research reputation in STEM and agriculture with undergraduate access
- ✓ Prime location in Fort Collins offers an ideal blend of college town energy and outdoor recreation
- ✓ High retention rate (84.8%) indicates strong student satisfaction and support systems
- ✓ Robust career network with major employers in engineering, tech, and agriculture
Cons
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher than in-state, creating a financial barrier
- ✗ Large enrollment (25,000+) means some introductory classes can be crowded
- ✗ Winters can be long and snowy, which may not appeal to all students
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
CSU is nationally recognized for its cutting-edge research and education in atmospheric science, biology, engineering, and agriculture. It is a land-grant university with a strong commitment to sustainability and hands-on learning, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and a highly collaborative faculty.
With an acceptance rate of 89.59%, CSU is considered moderately selective, making it accessible to a broad range of applicants. While it's not as competitive as some elite institutions, a strong GPA, a well-rounded application, and meeting the priority deadline will strengthen your chances of admission and scholarship consideration.
Campus life is vibrant and active, defined by a strong sense of Rams pride, a thriving Greek system, and over 400 student organizations. Students are deeply connected to the outdoors, balancing academic responsibilities with hiking, biking, and exploring the scenic surroundings of Fort Collins and the Rocky Mountains.
For in-state students, CSU represents an outstanding value, with low tuition and strong post-graduation earnings that ensure a positive return on investment. For out-of-state students, the value is still compelling, particularly for its top-tier programs in engineering and business, which lead to high-paying careers in growing industries.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 27,893
- In-State Tuition $12,896
- Out-of-State $33,751
- Zip Code 80523
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, CSU offers exceptional value with tuition under $13,000 and a 10-year median earnings of over $60,000, making the return on investment very strong. Out-of-state students pay a premium, but the university's robust career services and strong regional reputation can help justify the cost, especially for high-demand majors like engineering and business.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.