CSU is one of the colleges I’m thinking of applying to next year, but I’ve been hearing a lot of different things. Does anyone know the actual acceptance rate and what type of applicants they lean towards?
The acceptance rate at Colorado State University, as per the most recent official admissions statistics, is around 90%. This can, of course, vary slightly between years and cohort sizes.
In terms of admissions criteria, Colorado State University tends to value a strong academic performance. While it's not the only factor considered, academic potential displayed through GPA and course rigor are important. This includes the level of courses you've taken in high school (like APs, IB, or other honors courses) and your grades in them.
Like many universities, CSU also looks at the full range of your high school experiences and achievements. Quality extracurriculars and leadership roles can play a key part. Remember - it's generally better to show deep involvement and impact in a few areas than to spread yourself thin in many. Highly involved participation in a club, holding a leadership position, being involved in community service, or membership in honor societies are examples of attractive extracurricular activities.
It's worth noting that CSU became test-blind for Fall 2023, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not considered at all during admissions review. Therefore, focusing on academics and extracurriculars is your best bet.
Good luck with your application journey!
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