Transfer Students

Here is some useful information to help you apply for financial aid for the first time at the University of Colorado Boulder.

How to Apply

  • We encourage you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible to ensure you get full consideration for limited funds.
    • Include CU Boulder's school code (001370) on your FAFSA. If you didn't originally list CU Boulder as one of your schools, you can log back into your FAFSA and add it. We can't tell if you want to receive financial aid without it.
  • Submit your final high school transcript that confirms graduation and any college transcripts to the Office of Admissions prior to the start of school. Financial aid cannot be applied to your bill until this is complete.
  • Check your email often to stay on top of your financial aid application. If we need additional information to complete your financial aid application, we will email you.
  • View the types of aid you may be eligible for.

Financial Aid Timeline

  • You will receive email notification if we need additional information from you or when your financial aid offer is ready.
  • Loans must be accepted in Buff Portal once you have access. Grants, scholarships, and work-study are automatically accepted for you.
  • We encourage loan borrowers to use the Loan Repayment Calculator to estimate monthly payment amounts. You can use this calculator to project how much you will borrow in the next four years.

Transfer Credits & Aid

  • If you've received aid from another school during this aid year, it may impact the amount of aid you are eligible for at CU Boulder.
  • Transferring may impact your maximum eligibility for subsidized loans. Learn more about subsidized loan time limits.
  • If you have borrowed private loans, contact your lender to let them know you are continuing to attend school.
  • You are automatically considered for some scholarships, but more are available via the CU Boulder Scholarship Application between November 1 and June 1 for the upcoming school year (not for current year).
  • You must pass at least 67% of all attempted credit hours, including all CU hours and transfer hours accepted by any other college or university to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). Failure to meet SAP may result in a loss of financial aid eligibility.

Parent Access

Educational records are protected by FERPA. To grant your parents access to your financial aid information, you will need to complete a FERPA Consent to Release.

   Tip: Sign up for direct deposit to receive your financial aid refund. It's required and is the fastest way to receive your funds.