Colorado's Ninth Free Application Days Begin: 31 Public Colleges Waive Fees October 20-22
The Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) and Governor Jared Polis announced that the ninth annual Colorado Free Application Days run from Tuesday, October 20, through Thursday, October 22, 2026, during which all 31 public colleges and universities in Colorado, along with many private institutions, waive application fees.
Governor Polis said Free Application Days encourage more students and learners to take the next step toward a successful education and career journey, noting that last year more than 70,000 Coloradans submitted an application, saving $2.4 million in application fees. CDHE Executive Director JB Holston said the initiative helps more Coloradans — whether graduating from high school, returning to college, or seeking new skills — explore their options and build a foundation for long-term success.
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 to 22, following each institution's fee-waiver instructions.
State data from the prior year show the scope of the program: the 2025 event drew 71,504 applications, up 9% year over year, saving students more than $2.4 million in application fees; 36% of applications came from first-generation college students and 49% were submitted by students of color. Community colleges and regional technical colleges are always free to apply to, and several institutions have permanently waived application fees for Colorado residents; students can prepare essays, transcripts and recommendation letters in advance, submit during the event window, and complete the FAFSA or CASFA financial aid application.
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 位于 Denver 的科罗拉多州议会大厦。照片：xiquinhosilva 摄，CC BY 2.0，经维基共享资源／The Colorado State Capitol in Denver. Photo: xiquinhosilva, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
