Guaranteed Admissions. Guaranteed Opportunities. Guaranteed Support.

For High School Students

You’ve Earned It — Your Future at CU Denver Starts Now

You’ve worked hard. You’ve challenged yourself. And now, your dedication has paid off — you’re guaranteed admission to CU Denver through our Direct Admissions program.

If your GPA is 3.0 or higher and you attend one of our partner high schools, your name has been shared directly with CU Denver by your school district. That means you’re already on your way to becoming a CU Denver Lynx.

Here’s what happens next:

1. Watch Your Inbox

   Participating schools and districts share the names of students with a 3.0 GPA or higher directly with CU Denver at the beginning of the semester.
2. Apply and Submit Your Transcripts

   Complete your CU Denver application for free and upload your transcripts by November 1 to receive your official acceptance packet with your next steps in mid-to-late November.
3. See Your Financial Aid Estimate Early

   If you submit your application and transcripts by March 1, you’ll get a sample financial aid package by April 15 so you can see how affordable CU Denver can be.

This is your moment to take the next step toward your goals — in the heart of the city, surrounded by opportunity, and supported every step of the way.

Resources

• CU Denver Academics – Degrees & programs, Center for Undergraduate Exploration & Advising
• Explore CU Denver Life –  Housing, Student Life, Orientation
• Support Resources – Advising, Coaching, Financial Aid

For Parents & Families

A Simple Path to Your Student’s Future at CU Denver

At CU Denver, we believe every student deserves a clear, confident path to college — one built on their hard work and potential. Through our Direct Admissions partnerships with select high schools and districts, your student can be automatically admitted to CU Denver if they have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

Here's how it works:

1. We Receive Student Lists Directly from Schools

   Each semester, participating schools share a list of eligible students who meet the 3.0 GPA threshold. There’s no separate form or nomination process for you to worry about.
2. CU Denver Reaches Out to Eligible Students

   Students on the list will receive an email from CU Denver letting them know they qualify for guaranteed admission and that their application fee is waived.
3. Your Student Applies and Submits Transcripts

   As long as your student completes their CU Denver application and submits transcripts by November 1, they’ll receive their official acceptance packet—with personalized next steps—in mid to late November.
4. Planning Ahead with Financial Aid

   Students who submit their application and transcripts by March 1 will receive a sample financial aid package by April 15, giving families an early look at potential costs and aid options.

Your student’s journey to CU Denver is designed to be simple, supportive, and stress-free. Our goal is to remove barriers so you can focus on what really matters — helping your student take the next step toward a bright, successful future.

CU Denver Direct: Guaranteed Admission. Guaranteed Opportunities. Guaranteed Support.

Resources

• Affordability & Financial Aid – Scholarships and FAFSA guidance, Billing & Payments
• Health & Wellbeing – Student Wellness, Student Transitions & family engagement
• Academic Achievement – Advising, Learning Resources
• Campus Experience – Housing, Student Life