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Colorado Mesa University SAT, ACT & GPA Requirements for Admissions
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Colorado Mesa University takes a holistic approach to admissions, evaluating each applicant’s academic record, test scores, and overall potential. While SAT or ACT scores are considered, they’re just one part of the application. The average SAT score for admitted students typically falls between 930 and 1180, and a GPA around 3.2 or higher is generally expected. In addition to academic performance, the university values involvement in extracurricular activities, strong personal essays, and letters of recommendation. Colorado Mesa encourages applicants to present a well-rounded application that highlights both academic commitment and community engagement. Students are encouraged to submit a balanced application that showcases their strengths across various areas. Get to know about acceptance rate, scholarship opportunities and more in this article.
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Elements |
Details |
College Name |
Colorado Mesa University |
College Location |
Grand Junction, CO |
University Short Form |
CMU |
Acceptance Rate |
81% |
Early Action Candidates |
Not available |
Regular Application Due |
August 1 (Fall Semester) |
Average SAT Score |
1050 |
Average ACT Score |
20 |
Colorado Mesa University Admission Requirements
The admission process places importance on Colorado Mesa University SAT and ACT scores, GPA, and other factors such as essays and extracurricular activities. Here’s a summary of CMU’s key admission requirements:
Requirements |
Details |
Application Platform |
Common App or University Application |
SAT Scores |
Average of 1050 |
ACT Scores |
18–25 |
GPA |
Typically around 3.2+ or higher |
Application Requirements |
1 recommendation letter, Personal Essay (Required) |
Extracurricular Activities |
Encouraged |
Application Fee |
$40 (fee waiver available) |
Colorado Mesa University SAT Score Requirements
For Colorado Mesa University SAT scores are not the sole focus of the admissions process; however, competitive applicants often present scores within a higher range. The middle 50% of admitted students typically score between 930 and 1180 on the SAT, indicating that while strong scores can enhance an application, they are just one aspect of a broader evaluation. CMU adopts a holistic admissions approach, considering standardized test scores along with high school GPA, extracurricular involvement, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
Colorado Mesa University SAT Requirements
The average Colorado Mesa University SAT score is a crucial component of the admissions process. Students usually score between 930 and 1180 on the SAT. While a high SAT score can strengthen an application, CMU evaluates the entire application, which includes extracurriculars and essays.
Section |
Average |
25th Percentile |
75th Percentile |
Math |
530 |
490 |
570 |
Reading + Writing |
550 |
490 |
610 |
Composite |
1080 |
930 |
1180 |
Colorado Mesa University SAT Score Distribution
Students with Colorado Mesa University SAT scores below the 25th percentile (930) may encounter increased competition, and it is advisable for them to emphasize other strengths in their application. Students scoring above the 75th percentile (1180) generally have a higher chance of acceptance.
SAT Range |
Details |
Middle 50% Range |
Scores typically between 930-1180 |
Below 25th Percentile |
Focus on other strengths |
Above 75th Percentile |
Stronger chance of acceptance |
Also Read- Digital SAT Format
Colorado Mesa University ACT Score Requirements
Colorado Mesa University also accepts ACT scores, with admitted students typically scoring between 18 and 25. Applicants scoring below the 25th percentile (18) should highlight other aspects of their application, while those scoring above the 75th percentile (25) generally have a stronger chance of acceptance. Scoring within or above this range, combined with a strong academic record and community involvement, enhances a candidate’s admission prospects.
Score Percentile |
ACT Score |
25th Percentile |
18 |
75th Percentile |
25 |
Colorado Mesa University Schools That Accept ACT Scores
The schools and colleges that accept ACT scores at Colorado Mesa University include:
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- College of Business
- College of Health Sciences
- College of Engineering and Technology
- 11 Full Test
- 14 Sectional Test
- 31 Topic Test
Colorado Mesa University GPA Requirements
A solid GPA is essential for admission to Colorado Mesa University. The average unweighted GPA of admitted students is around 3.2. Applicants with GPAs below this average are encouraged to highlight their leadership roles and community involvement.
Colorado Mesa University Average GPA
The average GPA of accepted students at Colorado Mesa University is competitive relative to similar institutions. Typically, the average is around 3.2 on an unweighted scale, indicating that most accepted students have demonstrated consistent academic performance throughout their high school years.
GPA Ranges for Admissions |
Details |
Average of 3.2 |
Middle 50% range: 2.8 - 3.3 |
Colorado Mesa University Acceptance Rate
With an acceptance rate of approximately 81%, Colorado Mesa University is considered moderately selective. The holistic admissions process at CMU values not only academic metrics but also personal statements, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities.
Admission Statistics |
Details |
Total Applicants |
Approximately 7,000 students annually |
Admitted Students |
Roughly 5,390 students |
Holistic Review Approach |
Academics, personal qualities, and extracurricular activities considered |
Colorado Mesa University Scholarships & Financial Aid
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) strives to make higher education affordable and accessible by offering numerous scholarship opportunities to both domestic and international students. More than 50% of incoming students received scholarships in the 2022–2023 academic year, demonstrating CMU's commitment to helping its students financially.
- CMU Foundation & Donor Scholarships: CMU provides a single scholarship application that enables students to be considered for several awards with one submission. These CMU Foundation and donor-funded scholarships support a variety of academic fields and student backgrounds. The 2025–2026 academic year application opened on October 1, 2024, with a priority deadline of February 10, 2025.
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Merit scholarships are available to incoming transfer and freshman students, who will be awarded based on their past academic achievements, including GPA and standardized exams. These scholarships aim to acknowledge the students' hard work and commitment during their prior academic years.
Scholarships for International Students
CMU appreciates international students' diversity and the global outlook that they contribute to campus. To aid them, CMU has the International Merit Scholarship, which gives $9,000 annually to high-achieving international students with a U.S.-equivalent 3.0 cumulative grade-point average. Also, re-entry international students who have taken 30 credit hours at CMU with a GPA of 3.75 or higher can be awarded a $1,000 yearly scholarship.
- Specialized Scholarships: CMU offers a number of specialized scholarships for particular student populations and areas of study.
- Reisher Scholarship: For Colorado residents who show financial need and academic potential.
- Saccomanno Higher Education Foundation Scholarship: For students studying health sciences.
- Colorado Energy Scholars: For students studying energy-related fields.
- Mesa County Housing Scholarship: For students experiencing housing instability
- Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (COSI): Seeks to expand the number of postsecondary credentials earned.
- Colorado Foster Youth Financial Assistance Program: Helps students who have been in foster care.
To maximize scholarship opportunities, students are encouraged to complete the general scholarship application through CMU's scholarship portal. After this, submit the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for need-based aid. Also, explore and apply for external scholarships that align with their backgrounds and interests.
The average SAT score for Colorado Mesa University, combined with a competitive GPA and robust extracurricular involvement, strengthens an applicant's profile. While SAT and ACT scores hold significance, CMU employs a holistic admissions approach, considering personal essays, recommendation letters, and individual achievements. To enhance your chances of acceptance, submit a comprehensive application that emphasizes both academic and personal strengths.
Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Score
College Name
ACT Score
SAT Score
17–20*
860–1053*
15–21*
Not available*
16–20*
860–1062*
15–19*
820–980*
16–21*
890–1080*
College Name |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
17–20* |
860–1053* |
|
15–21* |
Not available* |
|
16–20* |
860–1062* |
|
15–19* |
820–980* |
|
16–21* |
890–1080* |
Colleges That Accept 1200 Score In SAT
University
ACT Score
SAT Score
21–28*
1110–1290*
19–25*
950–1130*
20–27*
900–1150*
20–26*
1010–1200*
21–27*
940–1200*
16–25*
910–1150*
18–26*
910–1150*
18–24*
910–1120*
19–26*
950–1150*
21–28*
950–1180*
16–27*
925–1140*
University |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
21–28* |
1110–1290* |
|
19–25* |
950–1130* |
|
20–27* |
900–1150* |
|
20–26* |
1010–1200* |
|
21–27* |
940–1200* |
|
16–25* |
910–1150* |
|
18–26* |
910–1150* |
|
18–24* |
910–1120* |
|
19–26* |
950–1150* |
|
21–28* |
950–1180* |
|
16–27* |
925–1140* |
Colorado Mesa University SAT Requirements FAQs
What is the Colorado Mesa University average SAT score for admission?
The average SAT score for admitted students is approximately 1080, with the middle 50% ranging between 970 and 1210.
What GPA do I need to get into Colorado Mesa University?
A GPA of around 3.0 is typical for admitted students, though applicants with GPAs between 2.8 and 3.3 are competitive.
When is the application deadline for Colorado Mesa University?
Early Action applications are due by November 1, while the Regular Decision deadline is March 1.
Is Colorado Mesa University test-optional?
No, CMU requires either SAT or ACT scores for admissions. However, they adopt a holistic approach, encouraging applicants to strengthen their applications in other areas.
Does Colorado Mesa University offer financial aid and scholarships?
Yes, CMU provides a range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid. Applicants are encouraged to complete the FAFSA for consideration.