Chances of Getting Into Colorado School of Mines
Golden, Colorado • Public University • #59 National • Founded 1874
Mines Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Mines SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Colorado School of Mines
Colorado School of Mines is a specialized engineering and applied science university in Golden, Colorado. With the highest median earnings of almost any public university and direct industry pipelines in energy, mining, and tech, Mines is a hidden gem for STEM-focused students.
Top Programs
What Makes Mines Unique
- Among the highest median earnings of any public school ($90K+)
- Specialized in engineering, earth sciences, and energy
- Golden, Colorado — at the foot of the Rocky Mountains
- Strong industry connections in energy, mining, and tech
- E-Days (Engineering Days) tradition dating to 1934
Mines Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Mines Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Mines: Admission Tips
Mines is pure STEM — show passion for engineering and science
EA gives priority for scholarships and honors
Median earnings are a huge selling point — research career outcomes
Outdoor enthusiasm fits the culture (skiing, hiking, climbing)
If interested in energy or mining engineering, Mines is the best in the country
The Brutal Truth About Mines Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 55% acceptance rate, Mines rejected over 6,750 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Mines, having a 3.78 GPA and 1395 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Mines doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if Mines genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 55%-acceptance-rate basket.
Mines Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Colorado School of Mines?
Colorado School of Mines has an acceptance rate of 55% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 15,000+ applicants, approximately 1,400 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Mines?
The average GPA of admitted students at Colorado School of Mines is 3.78. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.63, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Mines?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Mines students is 1310-1480. The average SAT score is 1395. For ACT, the range is 29-33 with an average of 31.
Is Mines hard to get into?
Yes, Colorado School of Mines is selective with an acceptance rate of just 55%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does Mines cost?
Tuition at Colorado School of Mines is $20,964 per year, with total cost of attendance at $38,200. However, 50% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $16,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Mines?
Your chances of getting into Colorado School of Mines depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 55% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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Popular Majors at Mines
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