University of Denver
The University of Denver is a private research university in Denver, Colorado, known for its Daniels College of Business and Josef Korbel School of International Studies. It carries stronger brand recognition than most universities with an equivalently accessible CGPA floor.

Institution size
Mid-sized
Min. CGPA floor
2.5
Tuition / yr
$30k–$50k
Type
Private research university
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Denver, Colorado, United States |
| Type | Private research university |
| Institution size | Mid-sized |
| Rankings | Featured in the US News National Universities rankings, generally in the top 100-150 band; appears in QS/THE global rankings outside the top 300. |
| Notable feature | Established Daniels College of Business; strong international studies programme |
| Official website | du.edu |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Published minimum graduate CGPA: 2.5
- Requirement is a floor for consideration; competitive programmes such as business and international studies typically draw stronger applicant pools
- Full holistic review applies once the floor is met
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Graduate tuition | $30k–$50k per year |
| Living costs (Denver) | Moderate-to-high; rising in recent years |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- MBA (Daniels College of Business)
- International Studies
- Social Work
- Computer Science
- Public Policy
- Hospitality Management
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Offered
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- Merit-based scholarships available through individual colleges, particularly Daniels College of Business
- Assistantship opportunities exist in select graduate departments; confirm availability directly with the department
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
Denver offers genuine brand recognition alongside an accessible published floor, but its higher tuition means it suits applicants with either stronger funding or a specific interest in its flagship business or international studies programmes.
Campus Life
Denver’s growing economy and outdoor-lifestyle reputation make it an attractive US city, though the cost of living has increased significantly in recent years relative to other accessible universities on this list.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | Fall (August/September) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; Spring (January) intake is offered by many universities with more limited programme choice. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70-90 is typical for graduate admission, varying by programme. |
| Student visa type | F-1 Student Visa |
| Post-study work options | Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of post-study work authorisation, extendable to 36 months for STEM-designated degrees. |
Official Resources
- University homepage: du.edu
Compare University of Denver against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.