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Hartman Rocks with mountain views at sunset.

Colorado Resident Resources

Financial Aid Opportunities for Colorado Students

If you’re a Colorado resident, there are several financial aid programs designed to make attending Western Colorado University more affordable. From tuition-coverage programs to state-funded support for students with specific experiences, these opportunities can significantly reduce the cost of college. Explore programs like Gunnison Valley Promise, Mountaineer Promise, EmpowerEd and FosterEd to see what support you may qualify for as a Colorado student.

Colorado Resident Resources

COSI
Gunnison Valley Promise and Mountaineer Promise
FosterED
EmpowerEd

Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative

The Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative works to reduce barriers to postsecondary education by providing funding across the state for student scholarships and success programming.

Application Requirements

  1. The COSI scholarship is for Colorado residents only.
  2. The scholarship requires demonstrating significant need, and you must complete the FAFSA/CASFA to be considered for an award.
  3. You must complete the application form below, and
  4. Write an essay that addresses why you chose Western, what plans and goals you have for the future, and what this scholarship would mean to attaining those goals.
Apply for COSI
The Gunnison Valley Promise and Mountaineer Promise are two programs designed to make a Western education more affordable—often covering the full cost of tuition and mandatory fees for eligible students. The Gunnison Valley Promise supports local students who graduate from Gunnison Valley high schools, allowing them to attend Western with tuition fully covered as an investment in the future of the region. The Mountaineer Promise extends similar support to eligible Colorado residents with demonstrated financial need, using a combination of federal, state and institutional grants to cover standard tuition and fees for qualifying students.
Gunnison Valley Promise Mountaineer Promise

FosterEd

FosterEd helps Colorado students who have experienced foster care pursue higher education without the financial burden. Eligible students who were in foster care after age 13 may receive funding that covers tuition, fees, books, housing, and other college expenses at Colorado public colleges and universities. Colorado resident students with foster care experience are encouraged to explore the program and learn how it can support their path to college.

To apply, please reach out to the Financial Aid office.

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EmpowerEd

EmpowerEd supports Colorado students who experienced homelessness during high school by helping cover the cost of attending college. Eligible students may receive funding that covers tuition, fees, and other educational expenses at Colorado public colleges and universities after other financial aid is applied. Colorado residents who were identified as experiencing homelessness in high school are encouraged to learn more about how EmpowerEd can support their college journey.

 

Learn More

Financial Services

Contact Information

970.943.3085
finaid@western.edu
8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Taylor Hall 314
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231