Colorado Gov. Jared Polis has announced that all of the state’s 32 public colleges and universities including Colorado State University Pueblo and several private institutions will allow students to apply for free on Oct. 13.
There is no application fee at Pueblo Community College.
The free application program is part of the third annual Colorado Free Application Day.
“Earning a certificate or degree gives Coloradans the best shot at good jobs during the economic challenges caused by the pandemic,” Polis said in a statement.
“By eliminating the cost barrier, more Coloradans will have the opportunity to pursue their passions. We need everyone’s talent and bold ideas to make Colorado the best we can be.”
CSU Pueblo President Timothy Mottet said Friday that the school is proud to partner with Polis and his initiative to make applying to college more affordable.
“The university has participated in years prior with Free App Day Colorado and we look forward to welcoming more ThunderWolves to our campus next year through this accessible opportunity,” Mottet said.
Students can use the waiver code “FreeAppDayCO” when they apply at csupueblo.edu/admissions/apply-now.
The Free Application Day caps off Colorado Applies Month, a five-week, statewide campaign that encourages high school juniors and seniors – and adults – to select an education or training option that’s best for them and apply to that program.
The statewide push is designed to increase Colorado’s stagnant postsecondary-going and Federal Application for Federal Student Aid completion rates. Despite being one of the most educated states in the country, Colorado sends just more than 56% of its high school seniors to a college, university or certificate program, and only 50% of students submit a FAFSA application— a major source of financial aid and a key indicator of student success.
“Colorado Free Application Day allows students to activate their potential, pick their path and reach higher than they ever thought they could,” said Angie Paccione, executive director of CDHE.
“With so many options available, whether you go to college or technical school, university or become an apprentice, there’s a program in Colorado that will unlock your future.” Watch Dr. Paccione’s message to students.
During last year’s campaign, students turned in nearly 44,500 applications, half of which came from students of color and a third from first-generation students. Statewide, 2019 application submissions were up 100% compared to 2018.
For more information, visit the Colorado Free Application Day and Colorado Applies Month webpages.
Chieftain reporter Anthony A. Mestas can be reached by email at [email protected] or at twitter.com/mestas3517. Help support local journalism with a subscription to the Chieftain at chieftain.com/subscribenow.
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