First-Year Admissions
2026 Undergraduate Application Now Open
Spring 2026 Deadline: Jan. 5, 2026
Summer 2026 Deadline: May 22, 2026
Fall 2026 Deadline: July 31, 2026
Your college experience is more than just four years and a piece of paper. You’ll be applying to CU Denver as a first-year college student, and you know what you want. You want a rich educational experience that lets you learn, grow, and make an impact. You want classes that challenge you, a campus that embraces you, a city that empowers you. And some mountains wouldn’t hurt.
What Defines a First-Year Student?
Anyone applying for admission to a college or university for the first time after graduating from high school, or earning a General Educational Diploma (GED), is a first-year student for admission purposes. Students who completed college courses while still in high school may have credits that will be considered for transfer toward their college degree, but they still apply as first-year students.
What First-Year Students Need to Know
Got What it Takes?
CU Denver Lynx are serious students with serious goals. See how your qualifications match up with our standards.
How to Apply
Did you know you can apply up to a year in advance? Follow four simple steps to complete your application.
Congrats! You’re In
Start planning. Schedule orientation, apply for scholarships, explore student housing, get to know Lynx Central, and more.
We’ve Got Your Back
College can be confusing (even a little intimidating), but don’t sweat it. We’ve got the answers to your questions.
International Students
International applicants should contact the Office of International Affairs for additional help and resources to complete the application.