To inspire more Coloradans to continue their education, all 32 public colleges and universities in Colorado and several private institutions will allow students to apply for free on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 as part of the third Colorado Free Application Day.
Colorado Free Application Day caps off Colorado Applies Month, a five-week campaign that guides 11th- and 12-grade students and adult job seekers along the application process.
The statewide push is designed to increase Colorado’s stagnant college-going and FAFSA completion rates. Despite being one of the most educated states in the country, Colorado sends just 56 percent of high school graduates to a college, university or certificate program, and just 50 percent of students submit a FAFSA application—a key indicator of students’ likelihood to continue their education.
By removing barriers for students to achieve a credential, Colorado can increase the number of students who complete their programs and enter the workforce with a degree or competitive skills. Nearly 75 percent of Colorado jobs require a postsecondary credential. Colorado Free Application Day encourages residents to live up to their fullest potential.
"Test-optional" for Class of 2021
The high school graduating class of 2021 will also have the option to include or not include their SAT or ACT scores with their college applications as Colorado colleges have implemented a “test-optional” policy making the college application process even easier for students this year.
Who is Eligible to Participate in Free Application Day?
All residents of Colorado who are applying for undergraduate programs at participating Colorado colleges and universities are eligible to submit their admission application for free on October 13, 2020. Undergraduate programs include undegraduate level certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor degrees. First-time freshmen, transfer students, returning students, and applicants seeking a 2nd bachelor degree are all eligible. Applicants for graduate level programs are not eligible.