How to Apply

Admissions Requirements

We're thrilled that you're interested in applying to the University of Colorado Denver College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Anyone applying for admission to a college or university for the first time after graduating from high school (or earning a GED) is a freshman for admission purposes. Students who completed college courses while still in high school may have credits considered in transfer, but they still apply as freshmen students.

Freshman Admission

Freshman admission consideration for both in-state and out-of-state students is based primarily upon:

1. Quality and number of high school courses (units) attempted (a rigorous academic program of study is preferred)
2. The admission index, which is a numeric score calculated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education based on GPA or rank in class and ACT or SAT test scores.
3. Optional personal essay and letters of recommendation. Though not required, a personal statement or essay and/or letters of recommendation may be considered in the admissions review process

General Admission

You are a strong candidate for general admission if:

1. Your index is 93 or higher
2. You have completed all HEAR requirements AND have no more than two MAPS unit deficiencies

Learn more about CU Denver admission requirements

Housing Requirement

Unless living at home with parents, freshmen under age 20 must live at Campus Village, which is an apartment style housing complex adjacent to campus. For additional information about floor plans, meal plans, leases and other exemption criteria, see the housing Web site. ​​

Freshmen

Be sure you have read the CLAS Undergraduate Admission Requirements and the Office of Admissions procedures before you apply. You may submit the online application for undergraduate admission or request an application from the Office of Admissions or by calling us at 303.556.2704. You may also obtain an application at your school's counseling office.

Transfer students

Be sure you have read the CLAS Undergraduate Admission Requirements and the Office of Admissions procedures before you apply. You may submit the online application for undergraduate admission or request an application from the Office of Admissions or by calling us at 303.556.2704. You may also obtain an application at your school's counseling office. For information on transfer planning, please visit the Admissions site and download the most current PDF.

Transferring from another CU system campus

Be sure you have read the CLAS Undergraduate Admission Requirements. See the Office of Admissions for the procedures.

International students

Be sure you have read the CLAS Undergraduate Admission Requirements. See the Office of International Affairs for the procedures to apply as an international student.

After you have applied

• You will receive a student ID and PIN number in the mail. Keep track of these; you can check your admission status online.
• Requests for additional information and correspondence about your admission status are sent via US mail
  • promptly provide any requested information or documents
  • contact the Admissions Office if you have questions or need assistance.

After you’ve been accepted

Perhaps you’re aware of what you need to find, so the information below is provided to get you exactly where you need to go -- as quickly as possible. Whether you need to find courses that are available, graduation information or upcoming news and events, it's all within a single click. Visit the Student Services page for a complete list of academic and student life resources and offices at UC Denver.

Next Steps:

• Activate your university email account (you should do this right away)
• Research how you’d like to get to campus
• Meet with your advisor (an advisor's approval is required before you register for the first time)
• Complete assessment tests (if required)
• Pay your tuition deposit (if required)
• Register for classes. Don't wait! Register as soon as you are able for best course availability
• Obtain your student ID card
• Attend the Orientation or Welcome program for your term of enrollment
• Buy your textbooks
• You should also apply for financial aid and check out scholarship opportunities.