Public
Accredited · Higher Learning Commission
Golden, Colorado
59.7% Acceptance Rate
Colorado School of Mines — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
59.7%Acceptance Rate
3.84Avg GPA
1403Avg SAT
31Avg ACT
$38,556Annual Cost
$97,335Grad Salary
13.3%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
59.7%
Avg GPA
3.84
Avg SAT
1403
Avg ACT
31
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission
SAT Middle 50%
1320–1470
ACT Middle 50%
29–33
Avg Net Price
$29,240
Need-Based Aid
13.3% receive Pell
Colorado School of Mines, established in 1874 during the state's silver boom, remains a global leader in earth resources and energy innovation. Home to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory partnership.
The 373-acre Golden campus features the CoorsTek Center for Applied Science, Edgar Mine experimental facility, and cutting-edge robotics labs. Its graduates command the highest starting salaries among Colorado public universities.
Colorado School of Mines Acceptance Rate
Colorado School of Mines is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of Colorado School of Mines is 59.7%. This means that 60 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Selectivity at a Glance
Somewhat Selective
Selectivity scale: Somewhat Selective — 59.7% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.84 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.64 – 3.83
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.39
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Mines GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Mines is 3.84. This indicates extreme selectivity in admissions.
To have strong chances, you must aim for straight A's in all courses.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 4.04-4.24 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.54 and 3.84, then you need a high SAT or ACT score to compensate.
Mines GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Highly selective; GPA is within the typical admitted range.
Recommended Strategy: Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT) in the top 5th percentile.
Admissions at Mines utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.84, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.84 – 4.00
Competitive Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.64 – 3.83
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.44 – 3.63
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.43
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Mines, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at Mines
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Colorado School of Mines's verified institutional data
--%
Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Colorado School of Mines (Mines) Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Can I Get Into Mines Without SAT or ACT?
Colorado School of Mines considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.
Colorado School of Mines Average SAT Score: 1403
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Colorado School of Mines is 1403 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1403 — Very Competitive
This score makes it very Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do very well to score 1403 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1470 SAT or 33 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Colorado School of Mines allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1320, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Mines. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 710 | 670 | 750 |
| SAT Reading | 685 | 650 | 720 |
| SAT Composite | 1403 | 1320 | 1470 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1320 then you are below most of the admitted students at Mines and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1470 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1400
Can I get into Colorado School of Mines (Mines) with a 1450 SAT?
With a 1450 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Colorado School of Mines (Mines) are good but the admission staff at Mines tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Colorado School of Mines (Mines) ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Mines is 31.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 31 — Very Competitive
This score makes Colorado School of Mines very Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do very well to score 31 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 31 | 28 | 34 |
| ACT English | 31 | 28 | 33 |
| ACT Composite | 31 | 29 | 33 |
Can I get into Colorado School of Mines with a 33 ACT?
A 33 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Colorado School of Mines — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at Colorado School of Mines use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.
Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.
One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that Colorado School of Mines — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether Colorado School of Mines uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.
Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 33 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Mines
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
Mines is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.
Consistency over Perfection
Prove you can handle a college curriculum by maintaining a steady or upward GPA trend. One or two lower grades won't be a dealbreaker if you've improved since.
Placement Validation
Use the SAT or ACT to exempt yourself from non-credit remedial courses. A solid score here saves you time and tuition money once you enroll.
Practical Leadership
Highlight work experience, family responsibilities, or community service. These schools value 'grit' and real-world maturity.
FAFSA & Deadlines
At schools with higher acceptance rates, the 'win' is financial. Submit your FAFSA and local scholarship apps as early as possible to maximize your aid package.
Next Step: Review the specific 'Pre-Professional' tracks at Mines to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.
Mines Profile
Full Name
Colorado School of Mines (Mines)
City
Golden
State
Colorado
ZIP Code
80401
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
Is a Mines Degree Worth It?
Getting into Mines can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Mines offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Mines is $74,400 and the graduate unemployment rate is 2.63%.
How much does a degree from Mines Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Colorado School of Mines is $38,556. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Colorado School of Mines is $29,240.
13.3% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 33.6 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Mines and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Colorado School of Mines, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Mines as your choice in the form.
How much does a Mines Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $97,335. An average Mines graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Colorado School of Mines. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chapman University | Orange, CA | 1353 | 30 |
| Pepperdine University | Malibu, CA | 1367 | 29 |
| Westmont College | Santa Barbara, CA | 1367 | 32 |
| University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder, CO | 1353 | 31 |
| United States Air Force Academy | USAF Academy, CO | 1362 | 30 |
| American University | Washington, DC | 1392 | 31 |
| Wheaton College | Wheaton, IL | 1363 | 30 |
| Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology | Terre Haute, IN | 1389 | 32 |
| St. John's College | Annapolis, MD | 1381 | 31 |
| Emerson College | Boston, MA | 1359 | 32 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Colorado School of Mines. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut College | New London, CT | 1412 | 32 |
| Trinity College | Hartford, CT | 1396 | 32 |
| University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | 1397 | 31 |
| Simpson College | Indianola, IA | 1410 | 32 |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Amherst, MA | 1393 | 31 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Colorado School of Mines. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeastern University Oakland | Oakland, CA | 1472 | 32 |
| Occidental College | Los Angeles, CA | 1461 | 33 |
| Scripps College | Claremont, CA | 1480 | 33 |
| Colorado College | Colorado Springs, CO | 1445 | 33 |
| George Washington University | Washington, DC | 1433 | 33 |
Degree Programs at Mines
Bachelor Degree Programs
Masters Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by Colorado School of Mines →
Frequently Asked Questions About Mines Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a high salary, $97,335 annually, depending on the industry.
The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $38,556 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
13.3% of students receive a Pell Grant here, which is below the national average of around 35%. This institution serves a higher proportion of higher-income students. Merit-based scholarships may still be available regardless of financial need — check the official financial aid page of the institute for details.
The acceptance rate of Colorado School of Mines is 59.7% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.84. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.54, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.54, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.44 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.84, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Admission to Colorado School of Mines is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1403 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1320–1470.
Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.