Options if you are not admitted
We carefully consider each application to Colorado State University.
We know how much time and effort went into your application to CSU, and we understand it can be disappointing not to get the decision you were hoping for. Every application is reviewed carefully, and we truly appreciate the work and heart you put into it.
You have options
Here are a few options to think about if you find yourself in this situation.
#1: Reframe the decision you’ve received from “No” to “Not Yet”
This decision is based on where things stand right now with your application. It doesn’t mean the door to CSU is closed — just that it’s not the right time yet. You can always strengthen your application and try again in the future.
#2: Contact your admissions counselor.
It’s important to talk with your admissions counselor before making your next move. They know the admissions process inside and out and can help you understand what went into your decision. They’ll give you honest advice about whether it makes sense to ask for reconsideration or if it’s better to plan for a future application — and they’ll help you map out your next steps either way.
#3: Understand our reconsideration process.
Reconsideration means taking another look at your application. If you weren’t offered admission, you can ask for your application to be reconsidered — but only once. Before doing that, talk with your admissions counselor to make sure it’s the right move.
You’ll be required to share new academic information (like an updated transcript that shows improved grades) and write an appeal explaining anything that wasn’t part of your original application. You can also include extra materials, like a recommendation letter, but that’s optional.
To have the best chance at being admitted via reconsideration, see below. These are not the only factors we consider, but it may be helpful to know some baseline information.
- Freshmen (first-year students) typically have a minimum 2.70 cumulative GPA with more grades of A/B than C and no D/F in their two most recent academic terms.
- Transfers students typically have at least 30 post-high school college credits with more grades of A/B than C and no D/F in their most recent term(s) and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (2.5 to be a strong candidate).
If you decide to request reconsideration, we require a specific form that your admissions counselor or our customer service team can provide. Do not submit a new application and fee for the same term.
#4: Strengthen your credentials and apply again in the future.
Your admissions counselor might suggest strengthening your academic record and reapplying for a future semester. One great way to do that is by taking classes at another college or university to show continued progress and readiness for CSU.
Freshman (first-year) applicants are typically advised to complete at least two semesters of transferable college-level work, including courses in mathematics and composition. Transfer applicants will receive more custom recommendations based on their transcripts.
Ways to strengthen your credentials and stay connected to CSU
The Ram Transfer Academy (RTA) at Front Range Community College (FRCC) is designed for students in your situation — students who want to get to CSU but need another pathway to get there. You will spend at least two semesters at any FRCC campus, where you can build up your GPA and credits before transferring to CSU. Think of Ram Transfer Academy as a detour on your path to CSU.
Key benefits
- Guaranteed CSU admission: Once you complete the RTA requirements, you’ll transfer directly into CSU with priority admission.
- CSU student perks now: You get access to CSU resources right away — student organizations, the Rec Center, athletics tickets, the Health Center, on-campus housing, even undergraduate research.
- Individual coaching: You’ll have a dedicated program coordinator who works with you every semester on your transfer plan, financial aid, and academic goals.
- Custom success class: RTA students take a class designed just for this program to help you succeed at both FRCC and CSU.
- Saving money and staying on track: By starting at FRCC, you pay less per credit and still graduate with the same CSU bachelor’s degree at the end.
Students who are eligible:
- have graduated from high school but have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree
- are enrolled (or plan to enroll) in FRCC classes for the semester you begin the program
- have two or more semesters left at FRCC before you transfer to CSU
Get more program info here.
CSU works closely with the Colorado Community College System to make transferring as smooth as possible. We’ve created transfer guides and agreements for specific majors that help you choose the right classes now so you’re on track for your CSU degree later.
Some options, like our 60+60 transfer plans, guarantee you’ll have just 60 credits left to finish your bachelor’s degree at CSU after completing 60 credits at your community college. Other options are more general but help you select recommended classes for your associate’s degree that will fit best with CSU’s bachelor’s programs.
These transfer guides and agreements are open to everyone, but they’re especially helpful if you’re just getting started with college courses. You can explore all the details here.
The partnership between CSU and Adams State University allows students to earn a CSU Mechanical Engineering degree in Alamosa, Colorado. Lower-division courses are taught by Adams State faculty, while CSU faculty living in Alamosa teach the upper-division course work. This program is open to any student who has not already earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Learn more here.
CSU Pueblo is part of the Colorado State University family! This university is located in Pueblo, Colorado, a city of 100,000 people about two hours south of Denver. The campus serves 4,000 students with personalized support services and class sizes. CSU Pueblo is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution with degree programs in high-demand jobs like nursing and cybersecurity. If you are interested in CSU Pueblo, please follow this link, and we will send your application and materials to CSU Pueblo.
This option is open to any student.
CSU can still happen
Sometimes it takes more time and energy to reach our goals than we had hoped for. But reaching them is what matters most. We’re here to help figure out how to make college a part of your future.