Navigating higher education within the correctional system involves unique challenges. This page provides answers to common questions and connects students, families, and partners with additional support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I continue my degree if I am transferred to a different facility? We make every effort to ensure academic continuity. Because C-CHEP is a statewide coalition, your credits are recorded on official transcripts that follow you within the CDOC system. However, the specific degrees available may change depending on which partner college serves your new facility. If you are going to change facility, please speak with your educational liaison to make sure you move to a facility that hosts one of our C-CHEP partners.
Does participating in C-CHEP affect my parole or sentencing? C-CHEP is an independent academic initiative. While completing a degree or certificate is a significant achievement that demonstrates personal growth and dedication to the Parole Board, enrollment does not guarantee a change in legal status or release date. However, please remember that the CDOC offers "earned time" to all college students based on your credits, so speak with your case officer to make sure you are tracking the ways your education is accumulating into "earned time."
How do I get my official transcripts after I am released? You will request your transcripts directly from the Registrar’s Office of the college that issued the credits (e.g., CU Denver, Adams State). C-CHEP staff can assist returning citizens with this process to ensure a smooth transition to on-campus learning. At many CDOC facilities, your educational liaison will work with you to order your transcript, so please speak to your facility's team and ask for their assistance.
Are there computer or technology requirements? Each facility has different technological capabilities. Our programs are designed to work within CDOC security protocols, utilizing a mix of face-to-face instruction, secure offline laptops, and synchronous video technology. At most CDOC facilities, you will receive a Chrome Book, which you will use to access a Google Classroom, CDOC is becoming a national leader in implementing these educational technologies. While C-CHEP supports you on your educational journey, please send all technical questions to the CDOC.
Can my family see my grades? Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), your academic records are private. You must sign a specific release form if you wish for our staff to share your progress or grades with family members.
What is the Cost of Pursuing College While Incarcerated? Most C-CHEP partners will work with you to complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (the FAFSA), which enables you to access Federal Pell Grants (Federal Student Aid for Students in Adult Correctional and Juvenile Justice Facilities). If you are not a U.S. citizen, and completed high school in Colorado, then you can complete your Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (the CASFA), which enables you to apply for state funds allocated by your home campus. By accessing these funds, you will be able to attend college for free.
How Can I Enroll in College While Incarcerated? Please speak to your facility's educational liaison to find out which college programs are available in your facility. Each college program runs structured orientation sessions, recruitment workshops, and application sessions, so speak to already-enrolled peers and facility leaders to find out when the next round of applications begins. To enroll in college, you will need to provide proof of earning your high school diploma or GED.
Key Resources & External Links
National & State Organizations
Student Support & Reentry
Research & Toolkits