About

About University of Denver

private research universitystrong business programssmall class sizestest optional

University of Denver is a private research university in Denver, CO, known for its private research university, strong business programs, and small class sizes. With an acceptance rate of 78%, DU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 1,638 students each year. DU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1210–1380, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. DU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $37,803 per year; the sticker price of $73,514 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

University of Denver acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

78%
Overall Accept Rate
3.75
Typical Admitted GPA
1295
Median Admitted SAT
GPATypical admitted range: 3.50 – 4.00 unweighted

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SATSubmitted score range: 1210 – 1380 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to University of Denver

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
DU's essay review carries meaningful weight in their process, so use your personal statement to show genuine curiosity and intellectual engagement rather than just listing accomplishments. Admissions readers at DU respond well to students who can articulate why they are drawn to a specific program or the interdisciplinary culture the school promotes.
Application Strategy
DU has strong programs in international studies, business, and law related fields, so if any of those align with your goals, name the specific school or program within DU (like the Daniels College of Business or the Korbel School of International Studies) in your application to show you have done your research. Generic interest in DU will not stand out as much as demonstrating you understand what makes that particular program a fit for you.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What University of Denver actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$74k/yr$20.1k
30k-48k~$74k/yr$16.2k
48k-75k~$74k/yr$22.9k
75k-110k~$74k/yr$31.8k
110k+~$74k/yr$47.2k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

78%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$57k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
11:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
5,661
Undergrad Enrollment
University of Denver Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch