Incoming Student Information

All incoming students are required to complete Step 1 through Step 4 of New Student Orientation. Step 1 consists of Online Orientation Modules hosted via Canvas. Information about this will be sent to your email. Step 2 is to meet with an advisor either during a 1:1 appointment (virtual or in person for first-year students) or during an Advising & Registration Day (for Transfer students). If you have any questions about orientation, please email orientation@ucdenver.edu.

Transferring Credit

Claiming Credits: Submit official transcripts and scores to claim credits earned through AP/IB/CE/Transfer coursework as well as CLEP or military experience to the CU Denver Office of Admissions. Your advisor will go through your transfer credit during an advising appointment.  

Placement Exams

Take the following placement exams (if needed) to register for the appropriate courses based on your scores.  

ALEKS: Math placement exam (check with your advisor or the degree map for your major to see if you need to take the ALEKS exam)  

GCAT: General Chemistry Readiness Assessment (recommended for General Chemistry)

Opportunities to Consider in Your First Year

First Year Experience (FYE) Courses: The focus of the CU Denver FYE program is specially designed courses that provide a welcoming and supportive learning environment for our new degree-seeking students who are starting college for the first time.  

UNIV College Success Courses: One credit—tuition free college success seminars are designed to ease your transition to CU Denver. These courses are only offered in your first semester at CU Denver, so don’t miss this opportunity!

Learning Communities: Learning Communities (LC) include two courses–sometimes three! – that are linked together. LCs connect you with top tier faculty while you learn about interdisciplinary topics, meet other students in your area of study and have shared experiences like a field trip!  

Academic and Support Resources

Academic Calendar: Review important dates and deadlines each semester

Lynx Central: Discover campus resources and upcoming events

Success Strategies: Set goals for achieving academic success