Free Application Days Saves Students $2.4 Million in Application Fees

DENVER - Jan. 9, 2026: Colorado students submitted 71,504 college and university admissions applications during the state's eighth annual Colorado Free Application Days, held Tuesday, Oct. 7, through Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. The statewide initiative saw a 9% increase in participation compared to last year and saved students more than $2.4 million in waived application fees, the initiative has seen an increase of students every year since its launch.

"For the eighth consecutive year, more Colorado students took advantage of Colorado's money-saving Free Application Days, collectively saving students $2.4 million in fees. This initiative continues to break down financial barriers, open doors to higher education, and strengthen access to Colorado's world-class colleges and universities," said Governor Polis, who shared Colorado Free Application Days in this video message.

Of the participating institutions, the University of Colorado Boulder (CU) led with 12,693 applications, followed by Colorado State University Fort Collins (11,284) and the University of Northern Colorado (5,565).

The campaign also highlighted Colorado's ongoing effort to increase college enrollment and completion rates by making higher education more accessible and affordable for all residents: 36% of submitted applications came from first-generation college students, and 49% were submitted by students of color - groups that have historically lower college enrollment rates in Colorado.

"Colorado Free Application Days prove that removing financial barriers works," said Dr. Angie Paccione, executive director of CDHE. "Every application submitted represents a student taking a bold step toward their future. We're proud to see more Coloradans pursuing higher education and strengthening the talent pipeline that drives our state's economy."

Data indicate 1,411 transfer applications were processed during the three-day event. Among those 270 applied to a community college within the Colorado Community College System, 230 applied to the University of Colorado Boulder, and 206 applied to the University of Colorado Denver.

Comcast and Telemundo donated airtime and video production services to create a 30-second public service announcement in English and Spanish, featuring Governor Polis, valued at $24,536. The spots aired in September and October on various cable channels for viewers in mountain communities, the Denver metropolitan area, and Northern and Southern Colorado.

Most colleges offer application fee waivers year-round for families who are stretched financially. Learn more about how to request fee waivers by visiting the CDHE website. Also, as a result of this campaign, several colleges and universities are eliminating application fees year-round. Learn more about Colorado Free Application Days.

About the Colorado Department of Higher Education
Working with the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, we support students, advocate, and develop policies to maximize higher education opportunities for all. The Department believes every Coloradan should have an education beyond high school to pursue their dreams and improve our communities. Read the strategic plan, Building Skills in an Evolving Econom y.

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