Applying as a freshman? Here’s why January 15 is a big day.

Blog Header: Applying as a Freshman

If you’re a freshman (first-year) applicant, January 15 is a big deal. It’s what we call our “regular decision date” and is important for both admission and financial aid. Here are some of the major reasons you should make January 15 a priority if you’re interested in starting at Colorado State University in the fall semester.

If you have questions about the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your admissions counselor.

#1. An admission decision sooner

If you submit a complete application by January 15, our goal is to have a decision to you by February 28. 

#2. Full scholarship consideration

Apply by January 15 and you’ll automatically be considered for an admissions-based scholarship, like the Green and Gold Scholarship or WUE. And since most students have a decision within four weeks (though we ask that you allow up to six weeks), you should have time to submit the Colorado State University Scholarship Application (CSUSA) before it closes March 1. Learn more about CSU’s admissions-based scholarships and financial aid.

#3. Ability to take important next steps in a timely way

Applying to college is just the first step. Once you’re admitted, you’ll have other important tasks, like housing, orientation, and more. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can turn your attention to next steps, like:

Financial aid

Once you’re admitted, you are given access to the CSU Scholarship Application (CSUSA). So the sooner you’re admitted, the more time you have to look and apply for scholarships and complete the FAFSA. This will help you understand the amount of financial aid you can expect and decide if CSU fits you financially.

On-campus housing

Have your sights set on a particular residence hall? Interested in a residential learning community? While there’s no deadline to apply for housing, we encourage you to do so as soon as possible to fully participate in roommate matching and room selection.*

Orientation

Orientation sign-up typically opens in January. Applying by our early or regular decision dates means you’ll have first access to sign up. This gives you the most options for dates so you can pick what works best for you.*

Additional event options

Get access early for events open to admitted students only. You’ll have more time to take a deep dive into all aspects of CSU and can schedule meetings with faculty or researchers from your major.

*The housing and orientation steps can only be taken once you have applied to CSU and submitted your enrollment deposit.

#4. Focus on academic opportunities

The sooner your apply, the sooner you can turn your focus to leadership and academic options. Some of our most-popular programs include:

University Honors

Our Honors Program is a competitive, academically focused community. Honors students receive a scholarship, work with faculty members closely, take seminar-style courses, and have the option to live with other honors students on campus. Honors requires an application and is competitive in acceptance, so the earlier you apply the better.

Presidential Leadership Program

If you’re looking for leadership experience, look no further than CSU’s Presidential Leadership Program. This three-year, 14-credit program allows you to build your resume from the moment you step foot onto campus. You’ll receive leadership training and experience alongside equally driven classmates. This program requires an application and is competitive in acceptance, so applying early is a smart strategy.

Key Communities

Come together with students who identify with you in many ways by joining one of our Key Communities. You’ll get leadership and academic experience, staff support, and can live on campus with your classmates. Key Communities requires you to submit an interest form, and the earlier you submit it, the more likely space will be available in the community.

Ready to apply?

Get started on your application.