High School Students

Joining Air Force ROTC your first year at CU Boulder gives you more time to participate in Air Force ROTC without obligation, gain experience, and decide whether you want to continue on to the Professional Officer Course (POC) during your junior and senior years.

Step One: In-State Requirements

Oftentimes, prospective cadets are unaware if they qualify for in-state tutition at CU. The residency requirements apply to all PUBLIC universities in the state of Colorado. If you have any further questions, please contact your prospective school's registrar's office.

In-State Residency Guidelines


Step Two: Apply to CU Boulder or a Crosstown School

Apply for admission to CU Boulder or any of our crosstown universities during your senior year of high school. The early action deadline (non-binding) and the regular admission deadline change every semester. However, we strongly encourage you to apply as soon as possible in the Fall of your senior year to ensure you recieve the strongest consideration for scholarships and admission. 

Learn How to Apply to CU


Step Three: Apply for Air Force ROTC Scholarships

Though it is not required to receive a scholarship in order to join Air Force ROTC at CU Boulder, we encourage high school seniors to apply to the U.S. Air Force ROTC High School Scholarship Program (HSSP). You may be eligible for full or partial scholarships that help you pay for tuition. Apply for an Air Force ROTC scholarship during your senior year of high school. Click the button below to find the most recent deadlines.

Learn More About Scholarships


Step Four: Apply to Detachment 105

Check out the How To Join tab to find specific instructions and information on how to become a Thunderchief!

How To Join Det 105