The Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) and Governor Jared Polis are pleased to announce the eighth annual Colorado Free Application Days from Tuesday, October 7, through Thursday, October 9.
For the fifth consecutive year, the campaign returns as a three-day event, where all 32 public colleges and universities in Colorado — as well as many private institutions — waive application fees, removing a financial barrier and making it easier for students to continue their education.
“By eliminating application fees, we are opening doors for more Coloradans to pursue college and build a brighter future,” said Polis. “I encourage Colorado students who are interested in a postsecondary path to take advantage of this opportunity to apply to college without a cost.”
“Free Application Days are more than just an opportunity to save money; it’s a gateway to possibility,” said Dr. Angie Paccione, executive director of the CDHE. “By removing financial barriers, we’re empowering every student to take that first bold step toward their dreams. Education should be accessible to all, and this is one powerful way we make that vision a reality.”
Who’s eligible and how it works
All Colorado residents applying to undergraduate programs, including associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and certificates, at public institutions of higher education or participating private colleges may apply for free from October 7-9.
The CDHE has posted fee waiver information for each participating college and university at https:// cdhe.colorado.gov/cofreeappdays.
Fee waiver methods vary by institution. Community colleges and area technical colleges waive application fees year-round, and several other institutions have permanently eliminated resident fees.
According to the Lumina Foundation, 50.7 percent of the labor force in Colorado have a post-high school credential and are earning at/above the wage benchmark, which is ranked fourth among 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Yet, challenges persist.
The CDHE’s 2023 Pathways to Prosperity report indicates that only about half of high school graduates go on to postsecondary study and less than half complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a critical gateway to financial aid.
Nearly 75 percent of Colorado’s jobs now require postsecondary credentials, underscoring the importance of increased credential attainment.
What students should do now
Begin working on applications now. Most platforms allow students to save progress before the waiver window opens.
Prepare materials like essays and letters of recommendation, etc.
Submit applications from October 7-9.
After applying, complete your FAFSA or Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA) to maximize financial aid opportunities and see if you qualify for federal, state or institutional aid.
In 2024, nearly 66,000 applications were submitted during the free application period, saving students more than $2.8 million. A significant share of those applications came from students of color and first-generation students, key populations that stand to benefit most from increased access.