Colorado Financial Aid & Scholarships

Discover comprehensive financial aid opportunities available to Colorado students, including state-specific programs, scholarships, and federal aid options.

Major Financial Aid Programs

Colorado offers several state-specific financial aid programs in addition to federal aid opportunities.

State Grant
Colorado Opportunity Fund

State funding that reduces tuition at participating Colorado colleges and universities.

Up to $2,500/year
Award Amount
Varies by institution
Deadline

Eligibility:

  • Colorado resident
  • Undergraduate student
  • Eligible college/university
Need-Based Aid
Colorado Student Grant

Need-based grant for Colorado residents attending eligible in-state institutions.

Up to $5,000/year
Award Amount
March 1 (priority)
Deadline

Eligibility:

  • Colorado resident
  • Demonstrated financial need
  • Undergraduate student
Various Scholarships
CollegeInvest Scholarships

Multiple scholarship programs managed by Colorado's 529 college savings plan administrator.

Varies
Award Amount
Various deadlines
Deadline

Eligibility:

  • Varies by program
  • Academic merit
  • Financial need
Federal Grant
Federal Pell Grant

Federal need-based grant that doesn't need to be repaid.

Up to $7,395/year
Award Amount
June 30 (FAFSA)
Deadline

Eligibility:

  • Financial need
  • U.S. citizen/eligible non-citizen
  • Undergraduate student

Scholarship Opportunities

Academic Merit

Scholarships based on academic achievement, test scores, and leadership.

Examples:

  • Presidential Scholarships
  • Dean's Scholarships
  • Honors Program Awards
Colorado-Specific

Major scholarships specifically for Colorado residents and students.

Examples:

  • Boettcher Foundation Scholarship
  • Daniels Scholarship
  • Governor's Opportunity Scholarship
Field-Specific

Scholarships targeted to specific academic fields and career paths.

Examples:

  • STEM Scholarships
  • Education Scholarships
  • Agriculture Awards
Community/Service

Recognition for community involvement and service activities.

Examples:

  • Community Service Awards
  • Leadership Scholarships
  • Volunteer Recognition

Understanding College Costs in Colorado

In-State Tuition

$12K-$14K

Average annual tuition at Colorado public universities for in-state residents.

Room & Board

$10K-$13K

Average annual cost for on-campus housing and meal plans.

Total Cost

$25K-$30K

Estimated total annual cost including tuition, fees, room, board, and expenses.

Financial Aid Application Tips

FAFSA Priority

  • Complete FAFSA as early as possible (available October 1)
  • Colorado priority deadline is often March 1
  • Use IRS Data Retrieval Tool for accuracy

Scholarship Strategy

  • Apply to multiple scholarships to maximize awards
  • Focus on Colorado-specific opportunities first
  • Start scholarship search early (junior year)

Continue Your Colorado College Planning Journey

Now that you understand financial aid options, let's explore the college application process.