DENVER- The Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) and Governor Jared Polis are pleased to announce the ninth annual Colorado Free Application Days, taking place Tuesday, October 20, through Thursday, October 22, 2026. During the three-day event, all 31 public colleges and universities in Colorado, along with many private institutions, waive application fees, removing a financial barrier and making it easier for students to continue their education.
“Colorado Free Application Days encourages more students and learners to take the next step towards a successful education and career journey. Last year more than 70,000 Coloradans submitted an application, saving Coloradans $2.4 million in application fees,” said Governor Jared Polis. “I encourage all Coloradans considering college or career training to take advantage of Free Application Days and explore options, submit applications for free, and move closer to achieving their goals.”
You can view Gov. Polis’ public service announcements in English and Spanish.
“Pursuing education beyond high school can be a transformative step for learners at every stage of life,” said JB Holston, executive director of CDHE. “Whether students are graduating from high school, returning to college, or seeking new skills for today’s workforce, this initiative helps more Coloradans explore their options, take the next step, and build a strong foundation for long-term success.”
Who's Eligible and How It Works
All Colorado residents applying to undergraduate programs, including associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, certificates and other eligible credentials at participating public and private institutions, may apply for free from October 20-22, 2026.
Fee Waiver Instructions
CDHE has posted fee waiver information for each participating college and university. Fee waiver methods vary by institution. Community colleges and area technical colleges waive application fees year-round, and several other institutions have permanently eliminated application fees for Colorado residents.
Why It Matters
According to the Lumina Foundation's 2024 Credentials of Value data, 51.7% of Colorado's labor force ages 25-64 hold a postsecondary credential that leads to earnings at least 15% above the median earnings of a high school graduate. Colorado also ranks among the nation's leaders in educational attainment, with 64.3% of adults ages 25-64 holding a postsecondary credential. Yet challenges persist. CDHE's Pathways to Prosperity report found that only about half of Colorado high school graduates immediately enroll in postsecondary education and FAFSA completion rates remain below desired levels, limiting access to financial aid opportunities. Additionally, according to the 2025 Colorado Talent Pipeline Report, 77% of Colorado's Top Jobs typically require a postsecondary credential for entry, underscoring the growing importance of education and training beyond high school for long-term economic success.
What Students Should Do Now
- Begin working on applications. Most application platforms allow students to save their progress before the waiver period begins.
- Prepare materials such as essays, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
- Submit applications between October 20-22, 2026.
- Complete the FAFSA or CASFA to maximize financial aid opportunities and determine eligibility for grants, scholarships, work-study, and other forms of aid.
In 2025, Colorado students submitted 71,504 applications during the three-day event, saving more than $2.4 million in application fees. Participation increased by 9% compared to 2024, demonstrating continued demand for opportunities that reduce financial barriers to higher education. Notably, 36% of applications came from first-generation students and 49% were submitted by students of color, highlighting the program's role in expanding college access for populations that have historically been underrepresented in higher education.
View a complete list of participating institutions and fee waiver instructions.
About the Colorado Department of Higher Education
Working with the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, CDHE supports students, advocates for higher education, and develops policies that maximize educational opportunities for all Coloradans. The Department believes every Coloradan should have an education beyond high school to pursue their goals, strengthen communities, and contribute to Colorado's economy.
Learn more at cdhe.colorado.gov.
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