<p>CU Boulder vs. Colorado State University? Which one is "better" and why? My sister went to CSU and really liked, but I want to know more about CU. What are the people like? Is it cliquey? </p>
<p>CU is far more prestigious academically, and Boulder is leaps and bounds ahead of Fort Collins in every possible aspect. Boulder is liberal, exciting, social and eclectic whereas Fort Collins is homogenous and about as bland as can be. </p>
<p>It is best if you try out both campuses… Tastes and attitudes differ. Both have their uniqueness and I have come across equal number of folks who like one versus the other. Academically, both are on even ground, with similar acceptance rates and strength of programs.</p>
<p>CSU has had a lower admission rate than CU for several years now (check US News for latest numbers). Which school you choose depends on what you want, where you fit best. CSU has several unique programs, is highly rated nationally in a number of others. The same is true of CU. One problem is that many people base their judgment on outdated information. Years ago, when CSU primarily was an aggie and engineering school, much of the CU superiority was valid. Not so today. CSU has made great strides and is now rated above CU in a number of rankings. Decide your area of interest. Visit both. Decide on facts, not on rumors or someone else’s biases, one way or the other.</p>
<p>Find the Best website provides the following statistics:
Admission Rate: CU - 83% CSU 74%
Percent admitted students who attend: CU - 32% CSU - 36%
Student ratings: CU - 4.5 CSU 4.6 (5 pt scale)
Smart Rating (whatever that is) CU - 92 CSU - 91 (scale of 100)</p>
<p>CU is definitely a more prestigious school overall, however some programs at CSU are better than those at Boulder. Both are great college, party towns, however. It depends on what you want to do to say which school is “better” and also the vibe you want.</p>
<p>Both schools are good. CU is going to be stronger if you are considering grad school. CSU has a stronger undergrad vibe but the RAPs at CU focus on undergrad education. </p>