AdmissionsOS Metropolitan State University of Denver vs University of Colorado Colorado Springs
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | University of Colorado Colorado Springs | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 99% | 97% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 880-1,130 | 1,010-1,220 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 17-26 | 20-26 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $15,327 | $15,788 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $24,622 | $24,595 |
| Graduation rate | 32% | 47% |
| Retention rate | 63% | 68% |
| Undergraduates | 15,002 | 8,697 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 14:1 | 15:1 |
| Setting | Denver, CO | Colorado Springs, CO |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Application fee | None | $50 |
| Test policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Metropolitan State University of Denver or University of Colorado Colorado Springs harder to get into?
University of Colorado Colorado Springs is more selective, with a 97% acceptance rate versus 99% at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Metropolitan State University of Denver or University of Colorado Colorado Springs?
Metropolitan State University of Denver has the lower average net price ($15,327 versus $15,788). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.