Welcome to Western
Confirm Your Spot
Join the Mountaineer Family!
We can’t wait to welcome you to Our Side of the Mountains and invite you to become part of the Mountaineer Family! Western is a place where bold, adventurous, and driven students like you thrive—and we’d love for you to be part of our incredible community.
We know that choosing your next step is a big deal. It may be a little nerve-wracking, but it is full of possibilities. No matter where you are in the process, we’ve got the resources and support to help you feel confident in your decision. Here’s how we can help, based on where you are right now:
I'm Ready to Choose Western
We are so excited that you are officially joining the Mountaineer Family! To confirm your spot at Western and let us know you are coming, follow these steps:
- Log into your Western Navigator using your application credentials.
- Secure your spot at Western by submitting your $200 deposit!
If this presents a barrier, please reach out to your Admissions Counselor
I Need More Information
As one of Colorado’s most affordable universities, we offer a variety of financial aid options and merit scholarships. 80% of our students receive some form of financial aid. These scholarships are designed to make your education more affordable and accessible. Check out a few of our scholarships opportunities as well as a breakdown of tuition below:
Merit scholarships
We offer a range of merit scholarships to recognize and reward your academic achievements. You are automatically considered for merit scholarships as soon as you submit your application.
New, first-year admitted students are considered for merit scholarships based on cumulative high school GPA; test scores are not a factor in our merit scholarship calculation. First-year merit awards are renewable for four years.
First-Year Scholarship Award Levels
| GPA | In-State | Per Year | Out-Of-State | Per Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.35 to 3.749 | East Merit | $2,500 | Basin Merit | $8,000 |
| 3.75 to 3.999 | Slate Merit | $3,500 | Ridgeline Merit | $9,000 |
| 4.0 | Taylor Merit | $4,500 | Peak Merit | $10,000 |
Renewal Requirements
A maximum of eight semesters of eligibility will be awarded to first-year students. To continue receiving a Merit Scholarship, students must:
- Enroll and complete a minimum of 24 credit hours each year.
- Maintain a cumulative 2.75 GPA.
- Meet satisfactory academic requirements.
Note: If a student is awarded a Merit Scholarship and fails to maintain the required cumulative GPA of 2.75, the student will not default to their state’s tuition-discount program.
New students are evaluated as transfers if they have taken college courses after graduating from high school. Transfer students with fewer than 24 college credits AND a minimum 2.5 college GPA will be considered first-year students for merit awards – see above.
New admitted transfers students are considered for merit scholarships based on cumulative college GPA. Merit scholarships are renewable for up to three years.
Transfer Scholarship Award Levels
| In-State | Out-Of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Advantage Award (3.0-3.49 GPA) | $2,500 | $5,000 |
| Scholars Award (3.5-4.0 GPA) | $3,500 | $7,000 |
| Phi Theta Kappa (Two-Year College Honor Society Members) | $4,000 | $7,000 |
Renewal Requirements
A maximum of six semesters of eligibility will be awarded to transfer students. To continue receiving a Merit Scholarship, students must:
- Enroll and complete a minimum of 24 credit hours each year.
- Maintain a cumulative 2.75 GPA.
- Meet satisfactory academic requirements.
Note: If a student is awarded a Merit Scholarship and fails to maintain the required cumulative GPA of 2.75, the student will not default to their state’s tuition-discount program.
WUE/CP
If you’re from one of 25 states in the West or Midwest, you’ll
automatically get lower tuition rates once you submit your application.
Tuition
| Direct Cost | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $7,308* | $20,424 |
| Required Fees | $4,010 | $4,010 |
| Optional Fees** | $450 | $450 |
| Double Room*** | $5,463 | $5,463 |
| Board (15-meal/week plan) | $5,297 | $5,297 |
| Total Annual Cost | $22,528 | $35,644 |
| Indirect Cost | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Books & Supplies | $1,350 | $1,350 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,746 | $1,746 |
| Transportation | $1,548 | $1,548 |
| Total Indirect Cost | $4,644 | $4,644 |
| Total (Direct + Indirect) | $27,172 | $40,288 |
With small classes where you can connect with your classmates and our dedicated faculty, a focus on hands-on learning, and our close-knit community on and off campus, we are committed to providing you with more than just a degree. Set against the unbeatable backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Western provides a transformational experience that will prepare you for a rewarding life after college.
At Western, we believe a liberal arts education provides a well-rounded foundation that prepares students to handle anything life throws at them. Our approach focuses on teaching students how to think critically, not just what to think.
No matter what you choose to study within any program at Western, the foundation of a Liberal Arts education sets you up for success.
The enrollment deposit is how you confirm your spot at Western and let us know you are going to be attending school here! You can submit your deposit by logging into your Western Navigator using your application credentials.
One of the best ways to understand is Western is the right place for you is by visiting! You’ll get questions answered by faculty, students, and admissions counselors as you explore our state-of-the-art facilities, residence halls, and dining options. Connect with future classmates and start forming friendships before classes begin. Plus, prepare for success by learning about your program and discovering key campus resources.
Top Three Reasons to Choose Western Colorado University
Our unbeatable location
Western’s location in the beautiful Gunnison Valley is like no other. With access to 2 million acres of public land, 700+ miles of single-track trails, and Crested Butte Ski Resort within 30 minutes of campus, Western is the perfect place to find adventure and education.
Our close-knit community
From students to ranchers to service workers and even the ski bums, the eclectic community is what makes this Valley so close. With community-wide events like Cattleman’s Days and the Night of Lights, it’s easy to feel at home here at Western.
Our class environment
Western’s close connections allow you to create real relationships with professors inside and outside the classroom. The average class size of 17 means you get to work closely with professors to define your own personalized educational experience.
I'd Love to Talk it Over!
Our Admissions Counselors are dedicated to helping you navigate the college decision process, whether you ultimately choose Western or another path that’s right for you. Choosing a college is a big decision, and it’s important to have someone who understands the process and can offer personalized guidance. Reach out to our Admissions team or schedule a visit!