You’re academically driven and prefer an intimate classroom setting with attentive professors. You enjoy world-class adventures and seize every opportunity to apply your knowledge outside of the classroom. You’ve done the hard work and decided that Western is the university for you—now you just have to apply to your program of choice. We know that the admissions process can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Admissions
Start your journey at Western.
Western Colorado University offers a dynamic blend of academic excellence, unique experiential learning opportunities and world-class adventures. By nurturing your individuality and potential, we’ll support your pursuit of a prosperous future—starting with your application to Western. Akin to our values, our application process is holistic and transparent. Our WCU Financial Aid office is committed to helping you navigate your journey now—and throughout your time as a Mountaineer.
Set up for success
We understand that applying to a university can be daunting, which is why our admission process is straight forward. We are committed to helping you apply to your program of choice with confidence and ease.
Financial Aid
College is expensive, we’re here to help.
At Western, we know that managing the investment in your college education can seem overwhelming. That’s why we offer a variety of different options for financial aid—to make your education affordable. Our knowledgeable staff in the Financial Aid Department is here to help you navigate your options for financial assistance and support you throughout your academic journey to graduation.
Navigating your options
We’ve helped thousands of students finance their education through a combination of scholarships, grants, loans and work-study programs.
Types of Aid
Scholarships
Based on considerations such as academic excellence, financial need, school activities and more.
Tuition Discount Program
Available to students in Western and Midwestern states, offering substantial savings.
Grants
Awarded based on demonstrated financial need, cost of education and enrollment status.
Loans
By completing the FAFSA, our Financial Aid Department can provide the best loan options for you.
College Opportunity Fund (COF)
Stipend for eligible Colorado residents attending a Colorado public or participating private institution.
Work-Study
There are a variety of employment opportunities on and off campus to help pay for your education.
A helpful hand
Our Admissions team will help you navigate the admissions process so you can focus on pursuing your dreams.
Tuition & Costs
2023-24 Tuition and Fees
To help you navigate your financial investment, below is a breakdown of tuition and fees based on residency status. Our expert team in the Cashier’s Office is also here to help you and your family learn everything you need to know about your financial investment. We provide professional and personal services to ensure that you have clarity about tuition, fees and financial aid opportunities, so you can focus on thriving academically.
| Direct Cost | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $6,936* | $18,960 |
| Required Fees | $3,877.10 | $3,877.10 |
| Optional Fees | $250 | $250 |
| Double Room | $5,304 | $5,304 |
| Board (15-meal/week plan) | $4,982 | $4,982 |
| Total Annual Cost | $21,349.10 | $33,373.10 |
| Indirect Cost | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Books & Supplies | $1,350 | $1,350 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,521 | $1,521 |
| Transportation | $1,665 | $1,665 |
| Total Indirect Cost | $4,536 | $4,536 |
| Total (Direct + Indirect) | $25,885.10 | $37,909.10 |
Tuition costs are subject to change. For a breakdown of tuition costs per credit hour, email cashier@western.edu.
Also, please be advised that some departments have course specific fees. This may increase a student’s due balance depending on the classes they enroll in each semester.
NOTICE:
*Reflects that the College Opportunity Fund (COF) stipend has been applied. Register for COF at cof.college-assist.org. Visit western.edu/finaid for more information. Total In-State tuition without COF is $10,056.
**Optional fees include Mountaineer Field House ($200), Renewable Energy ($30) and Scholarly Activity ($20). For information about waiving these fees, email cashier@western.edu.
***For information about options on housing and meal plans, visit the Residence Life room and board rates page.
Net Price Calculator
Get a detailed picture of your estimated expenses and see if you qualify for a merit scholarship.
Immediately upon acceptance at Western, you’ll be considered for a merit scholarship based on GPA. To determine whether you qualify for a merit scholarship, complete the first section of the Net Price Calculator, which will take less than a minute.
To get an approximate overall cost of attendance if you are a full-time student, pursuing your first undergraduate degree beginning fall 2024, complete the entire Net Price Calculator. You will need to have some information about you and your parent’s most recent tax returns. This will take approximately five minutes.
Please note that this calculator is for estimates only. The actual award package will vary depending upon the time of year, regulatory and institutional policy changes, availability of funds, actual test scores and academic information, as well as verifiable financial information.
Calculator for First-Year Students Calculator for Transfer Students
Visit Western
Experience all that Western has to offer.
A visit to campus or virtual tour are great ways to experience all Western has to offer. Our faculty, staff and student ambassadors are eager to help you explore your academic interests and career goals. Experience what makes Western an innovative and unique institution. Don’t miss your opportunity to see what it’s like to be a student at Western.
Experience Western
We offer many ways for you to explore the Western campus including group tours, virtual tours, preview days and more.
Admitted Students
Welcome Mountaineers.
Congratulations on becoming a Mountaineer! At Western, we know that you’ll find the perfect blend of academic excellence, unique opportunities for experiential learning, an inclusive community and extraordinary adventures. Before we welcome you to our beautiful campus, there are a few things you need to do. Use our checklist to guide you through the process. If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions Office. We can’t wait to see you here!
Starting your journey
Your first year at college is an exciting time. We’ve designed our residence halls and campus amenities to be welcoming and supportive spaces where you’ll thrive.
Take the Next Step
Apply to Western
We understand that applying to a university can be daunting, which is why we make our admission process as simple and straightforward as possible. Learn more about applying to your program of choice at Western.
Visit Western
The best way to find out what makes Western such a special place is to experience it for yourself. Our student-led tours give you an insider’s perspective on everything from academics to student life.
Alumni Community
We keep the Mountaineer spirit going strong within our alumni community. Whether getting together with friends at an annual event, making a donation or mentoring a student, graduates continue to play an important role in the Western community.
Request Information
Want to discover more about Western? Request information today to get in touch with the admissions team.