University of Colorado Colorado Springs Scholarships (2026–2027)
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Last Updated on June 5, 2026
What This Page Covers:- Tuition, housing, and average family net price
- Automatic merit ranges and qualifier benchmarks
- Flagship and hidden-gem awards
- Honors and stacking strategy
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~97%
- Middle 50% ACT: 24
- Middle 50% SAT: 1130
- Average GPA: 3.46
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📌 University of Colorado Colorado Springs at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Kane Family Foundation Scholarship)
Average Net Price
$14,689/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
$2,500–$6,250/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
16 opportunities
2 automatic · 5 competitive · 8 hidden gem · 1 honors
Typical Qualifiers
GPA 3+; ACT 22+ / SAT 1110+
Benchmarks for top-tier awards.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Feb 1 • FAFSA: Mar 1
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Kane Family Foundation Scholarship
Honors College
Honors Program Available
UCCS is a classic “stack the value” school. The automatic awards (like the Chancellor’s and Peak Awards) aren’t full rides—but they’re predictable, renewable, and can take a real chunk out of the cost, especially when combined with WUE or departmental scholarships.
This is a strong option for families who want flexibility without chasing long-shot competitive scholarships. If your student has a solid GPA and applies on time, you can map out a clear cost strategy here—and that’s something a lot of schools don’t offer.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — University of Colorado Colorado Springs is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 24; SAT: 1130.
Average net price? About $14,689/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes — participates in WUE.
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Colorado Colorado Springs 2026-2027
📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 numbers are released.
Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.
| Category (2026–2027) |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2 semesters) |
$13,774 |
$36,113 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$17,508 |
$17,508 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$31,282 |
$53,621 |
Average Federal Net Price: $14,689 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
UCCS participates in WUE for eligible students from partnering western states. UCCS lists a WUE
total estimated cost of
$47,720 with WUE tuition & fees of
$24,614 (vs. non-WUE total
$59,099 and tuition & fees
$36,113). See our overview:
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE).
Who qualifies for WUE?
Residents of participating western states and territories; some majors may have exceptions. Check the UCCS admissions page for eligibility details.
How much can WUE save?
UCCS’ estimates show a lower total cost under WUE compared to the standard nonresident price. Exact savings depend on housing/meal plan and other expenses.
Is WUE automatic?
Generally applied based on residency once admitted. Always verify any program/major restrictions.
Sources:
University COA page (Undergraduate Budgets): https://www.uccs.edu/bursar/cost-of-attendance
Housing & Dining (Rates): https://www.uccs.edu/living-on-campus/rates-and-dining
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE): https://www.uccs.edu/admissions-aid/scholarships/wue
College Scorecard (Average net price): https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?126580-University-of-Colorado-Colorado-Springs=
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
UCCS Chancellor's Award
📅 Deadline: February 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~22 ACT✎ ~1110 SAT🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Available only to Colorado residents and students paying the WUE tuition rate — you'll receive whichever tuition arrangement is best for you, but the Chancellor's Award cannot be combined with the Peak Award or other awards that alter the base tuition rate.
💡
Strategic Detail
Worth $2,500 per year ($10,000 over four years) for full-time freshmen and transfers from Colorado or WUE states pursuing their first undergraduate degree. Two automatic qualification paths: without test scores, a 3.5+ weighted HS GPA qualifies automatically (3.0–3.49 GPA students are invited to submit a supplemental form); with test scores, a 3.0+ weighted GPA plus ACT 22 or SAT 1110 qualifies. New transfers qualify with a 3.0+ cumulative college GPA and 24+ college credit hours. Renews up to four years if you complete 30 credit hours per year and hold a 3.0 UCCS GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Colorado or WUE-state freshmen and transfers with roughly 3.5+ weighted high school GPAs (or transfer GPAs of 3.0+ with at least 24 credit hours) who enroll full-time and stay on pace academically. Students in the 3.0–3.49 weighted GPA range without test scores get a second look through a supplemental form.
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
UCCS Peak Award
📅 Deadline: February 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~22 ACT✎ ~1110 SAT🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Available only to nonresident, non-WUE students — you'll receive whichever tuition arrangement is best for you, but the Peak Award cannot be combined with WUE rates, the Chancellor's Award, or other residency-based tuition reductions.
💡
Strategic Detail
Worth $6,250 per year ($25,000 over four years) for full-time freshmen and transfers who are nonresident, non-WUE, and seeking their first undergraduate degree. Two automatic qualification paths: without test scores, a 3.5+ weighted HS GPA qualifies automatically (3.0–3.49 GPA students are invited to complete a supplemental form); with test scores, a 3.0+ weighted GPA plus ACT 22 or SAT 1110 qualifies. New transfers qualify automatically with a 3.0+ cumulative college GPA and 24+ college credit hours. Renews up to four years with 30 credit hours per year and a 3.0 UCCS GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Out-of-state, non-WUE freshmen and transfers with roughly 3.5+ weighted HS GPAs (or transfer GPAs of 3.0+ with at least 24 credit hours) who enroll full-time and keep moving forward academically. Students in the 3.0–3.49 weighted GPA range without test scores get a second look through a supplemental form.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
*Estimated GPA/test score ranges based on latest award patterns. Auto-merit cutoff may shift year to year depending on applicant pool and funding. Final deadline for all new students is June 1, but priority for maximum consideration is Feb 1.
Do I need to apply separately for these scholarships?
No. Both the Chancellor’s and Peak Awards are automatic upon admission—no extra application needed if you qualify.
Does UCCS superscore?
Yes. Your best ACT/SAT subscores are used if you submit them, but GPA alone suffices for most awards.
Can these stack with WUE?
No. Chancellor’s is CO/WUE only, Peak is non-WUE/nonresident only. You can’t stack both or combine with WUE rates.
What about test-optional?
Merit awards are available for test-optional students. GPA and curriculum rigor are the primary factors.
Sources:
Chancellor’s Award – https://www.uccs.edu/admissions/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships/chancellors-award
Peak Award – https://www.uccs.edu/admissions/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships/peak-award
UCCS Scholarships Office – https://uccs.academicworks.com/
UCCS Scholarship Deadlines – https://finaid.uccs.edu/scholarships/faq
🏆 Competitive Scholarships (University-Level)
Selective awards with extra steps (application, essays/interview). Campus-level only — no Honors-only or departmental funds listed here.
Full TuitionApp Requiredpipeline
Kane Family Foundation Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 1 · 📢 Results: April
✓ Renews (3.25 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full tuition, fees, and required books
✘ Not stackable
⚠ High‑achieving Colorado residents can compete for Kane scholarships that pay full in‑state tuition, mandatory fees, and required books for up to four years; students still pay for room and board
🏫 3.5+ GPA👥 ~Small cohort selected each year; estimated value approximately $60,000 over four years. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers the actual cost of in-state tuition, mandatory fees, and required books — so it covers what it covers, with no additional cash benefit if you'd otherwise receive a tuition-rate scholarship. Room, board, and personal costs are still on you, and stacking with other tuition-based institutional awards is generally limited.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to UCCS and submit the UCCS General Scholarship Application, then complete the Kane Scholarship supplemental essays (one on excellence and independence, one on your major and four-year graduation plan). Finalists are contacted for an interview by the end of February; interviews are held in March.
Selection criteria: Highly competitive holistic review focused on academic distinction, leadership, sustained extracurricular involvement, four-year graduation commitment, and interview performance.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
One of the most valuable awards at UCCS: covers the full cost of tuition, mandatory fees, and required books for up to four years, with an estimated total value of about $60,000. Requires a 3.5+ HS GPA, consistent and long-term extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to graduate within four years. Open to Colorado residents pursuing their first undergraduate degree. Finalist interviews in March, notifications in April.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Colorado residents with a 3.5+ HS GPA — but past recipients have typically been in the top 10% of their class with consistent, multi-year extracurricular involvement and a clear story about excellence and independence. The Kane committee is looking for future campus leaders who will graduate in four years.
App Required
Chancellor's Leadership Class (CLC)
📅 Deadline: February 1 · 📢 Results: April
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 3.5+ GPA👥 ~Limited cohort selected each year. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with the Chancellor's Award, Peak Award, Honors Program scholarship, and most other UCCS and external awards, up to the cost of attendance. CLC is one of the most stackable named programs at UCCS.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the UCCS General Scholarship Application through the AcademicWorks portal, then complete the Chancellor's Leadership Class supplemental questions, which include three essays (100–300 words each) covering your UCCS fit, prior leadership/service experience, and an experience working across difference. Finalists are contacted for an interview by the end of February; interviews are held in March.
Selection criteria: Holistic review weighted on leadership history, service involvement, essay quality, fit with the CLC cohort model, and interview performance.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Worth $4,000 per year for selected scholars, awarded as part of a four-year leadership development cohort that includes coursework, community service, mentoring, and skill-building seminars. High school senior applicants need a 3.5+ cumulative GPA; college applicants need 3.0+ and two full years of full-time enrollment left. Finalist interviews in March, notifications in April.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming freshmen with a 3.5+ HS GPA — or current college students with a 3.0+ college GPA and at least two full years of full-time enrollment remaining — who can show real leadership history (student government, captain roles, service work) and write compellingly in three short essays. Interview presence matters.
App Required
UCCS Presidential Scholars Award
📅 Deadline: February 1 · 📢 Results: April
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~Limited cohort selected each year through competitive review. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Recipients pay 110% of in-state tuition instead of full nonresident tuition — that's a huge reset on your bill if you're coming from outside Colorado. Because it modifies your base tuition rate, it generally won't stack with the Peak Award or other nonresident tuition-rate scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for admission to UCCS, then submit the UCCS General Scholarship Application through the AcademicWorks portal and complete the Presidential Scholars supplemental questions. You'll select one or two achievement categories (Sciences, Leadership, Arts, or Athletics) and submit two essays — a short 'Why UCCS' (75–100 words) and a longer achievement essay (150–400 words).
Selection criteria: Holistic competitive review weighted on achievement category strength, essay quality, and fit with the Presidential Scholars profile.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
This is one of UCCS's flagship out-of-state competitive awards: selected students pay 110% of resident undergraduate tuition instead of full nonresident tuition, which can be a five-figure annual savings. Open to incoming nonresident freshmen pursuing their first undergraduate degree, with a 3.0 minimum HS GPA and demonstrated exceptional achievement in Sciences, Leadership, Arts, or NCAA D-II Athletics. Renewable up to four years if requirements are met. Notification in April.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Out-of-state freshmen with at least a 3.0 high school GPA who can show genuinely exceptional achievement in one of four lanes: science (research, fairs, Olympiad), leadership (student government, valedictorian, club president), arts (performance, portfolio, recognition), or NCAA Division II athletics. Strong essays make or break it.
App Required
LIVE Leadership Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 1 · 📢 Results: April
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~Limited cohort selected each year. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with the Chancellor's Award, Peak Award, and most other UCCS and external scholarships up to the cost of attendance. Think of LIVE as an add-on to whatever automatic merit award you already have.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the UCCS General Scholarship Application through the AcademicWorks portal, then complete the LIVE Leadership supplemental essay (200–500 words on a time you were an active community participant and what it taught you about UCCS engagement).
Selection criteria: Holistic review weighted on essay quality, community engagement history, and fit with the LIVE program model.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Launching Integrity, Values and Excellence (LIVE) is a four-year leadership development program at UCCS, and admission comes paired with a $1,000-per-year scholarship. Open to incoming first-year freshmen with a 3.0+ HS GPA. Recipients enroll in the LIVE GPS 1010 course in fall, attend bi-monthly seminars in spring, and stay co-curricularly involved on campus while working toward the UCCSlead certificate. Notifications in April.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming first-year freshmen with a 3.0+ HS GPA who can show real civic engagement and community involvement, and who are genuinely interested in completing the LIVE program — the GPS 1010 class in fall, bi-monthly seminars in spring, and progress toward the UCCSlead Transformative Leadership certificate.
App Required⚠ Sophomore Only
Reisher Continuing Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1 · 📢 Results: June
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 3 yrs)
$6,000–$22,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~Up to 24 new awards each year at UCCS. winners/yr🎓 Sophomore
✚
Stacking & Combining
Designed to close unmet financial need after your other aid lands — so it stacks with Pell, Colorado state grants, and institutional aid, but your Reisher award is adjusted so that total aid doesn't exceed cost of attendance. Total program value can reach $18,000–$66,000 over three years.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the FAFSA and the UCCS General Scholarship Application by March 1, then complete the Reisher supplemental questions (graduation timing, an essay on how your degree will impact your life and community, and consent to share your essay with The Denver Foundation). Finalist interviews are held in late March; notifications are sent in June.
Selection criteria: Selection emphasizes academic performance, demonstrated financial need, a viable graduation plan, and interview presentation.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Established by the Reisher family in 2001 through The Denver Foundation, this is a sophomore-bridge completion scholarship: it picks up where most freshman scholarships drop off and runs through graduation. UCCS makes up to 24 awards per year worth $6,000–$22,000 annually (total $18,000–$66,000 over three years). Eligibility: rising sophomore who completed 12 credit hours in fall and is enrolled in 12+ credits in spring, Colorado resident, 3.0+ GPA, Pell-eligible or household AGI under 300% of the federal poverty level, FAFSA submitted by March 1, and willing to work 10+ hours per week (exceptions for caregivers and college athletes).
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Colorado residents finishing their freshman year at UCCS with a 3.0+ GPA, Pell eligibility (or AGI under 300% of the federal poverty level), 12+ credits per term, a clear graduation plan, and the willingness to work at least 10 hours per week. Up to 24 awards are made each year — competitive but achievable for the right candidate.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
*GPA/testing bands are estimates based on typical profiles and may vary each cycle. For all programs, apply via the UCCS Scholarship portal (opens Dec 1); most selective awards use Feb 1 deadlines, with need-based/transfer funds accepting applications through Mar 1 or May 15.
Competitive Scholarship FAQ
Who should apply? High-achieving students with clear records of leadership, service, and—where needed—financial need. Early applicants have a major advantage for all awards.
Are interviews required? Yes, for some (CLC, Kane, Reisher). Finalists will be contacted after initial screening.
Can I stack these with merit or WUE? In most cases, yes, up to tuition/need/unmet cost limits. Full-tuition awards (such as Kane) may restrict stacking with other tuition-based awards.
What if I miss the deadline? Most competitive programs have strict deadlines—late or incomplete applications will not be considered for the current cycle.
Sources:
Chancellor’s Leadership Class – https://studentlife.uccs.edu/clc/
Kane Family Foundation – https://kanefamilyfoundation.com/
Reisher Scholars Program – https://www.denverfoundation.org/Scholarships/Reisher-Scholars-Program
UCCS Scholarships Office – https://uccs.academicworks.com/
UCCS Scholarship Deadlines – https://finaid.uccs.edu/scholarships/faq
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
These are niche programs many families overlook — from ROTC pathways to undergraduate research and study abroad support. They aren’t automatic merit or big-name competitive awards, but they can meaningfully cut costs or open doors to extra opportunities.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Research Travel Grants
📅 Deadline: Rolling; students should apply before conference travel or by internal term deadlines.
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
One-time grants per year that can be combined with departmental and external travel support; limited to an annual cap per student.
📄
How to Apply
Obtain acceptance to present at a professional or academic conference and submit a travel funding request with budget and faculty approval to the appropriate UCCS research office.
Selection criteria: Priority usually given to students with accepted presentations and limited alternative funding.
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP indicates typical travel funding up to about $400 per year for student presenters; available amounts can vary by year and program.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students accepted to present research or creative work at conferences who submit timely applications and have faculty endorsement.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Roberto Saldana Empowerment Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Generally a one-year award that can be combined with other scholarships and grants.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the UCCS scholarship portal with an application highlighting leadership, service, community impact, and including strong recommendations.
Selection criteria: Selection focuses on demonstrated leadership, service, community impact, and strength of recommendations.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP notes scholarship amounts typically in the $1,000–$2,000 range, awarded for a single year to students with exceptional leadership and service records.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Leadership-driven students with outstanding community service and strong references who demonstrate how they empower others.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Strub-Heer First2Go Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA)
$1,000–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 2.5+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Award can be renewed as long as students remain in good standing with First2Go, maintain GPA and financial-need criteria, and continue participating in program activities; stacks with other aid up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
First-generation students in the First2Go program apply via the UCCS scholarship portal and/or First2Go office, including FAFSA information and brief essays.
Selection criteria: Selection favors first-generation students with demonstrated need and active participation in First2Go programming.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP notes Strub-Heer awards of about $1,000–$3,000 per year; actual amounts and conditions are set by the donor and First2Go program each cycle.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
First-generation students who are actively involved in First2Go, have at least a 2.5 GPA, and demonstrate continued financial need.
Full TuitionApp Required
Air Force ROTC (CU Boulder Detachment 105)
📅 Deadline: AFROTC national application cycle, typically January–March; confirm current-year dates.
✓ Renews
Full Tuition
tuition and fee scholarship with book stipend and monthly allowance
✔ Stackable
👥 ~Limited national AFROTC scholarship awards each year. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
AFROTC scholarships typically cover tuition and fees up to a set level, plus an annual book allowance and monthly stipend; stacking with institutional aid is governed by Air Force and UCCS rules.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Air Force ROTC through the national AFROTC scholarship process, enroll at UCCS, and cross-enroll with CU Boulder Detachment 105 while meeting academic and fitness standards.
Selection criteria: AFROTC evaluates academic strength, leadership, physical fitness, and potential as an Air or Space Force officer.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP notes that UCCS students can participate via CU Boulder Detachment 105 and receive standard AFROTC scholarship packages; details of coverage follow national AFROTC policy rather than UCCS-specific amounts.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
STEM- and leadership-focused students willing to commute to CU Boulder, who meet Air or Space Force academic, medical, and physical requirements and successfully compete in the national AFROTC board process.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Undergraduate Research Academy (URA)
📅 Deadline: March 31
Non-Renewable
👥 ~Limited number of URA awards each year. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Summer stipend that can stack with other scholarships and financial aid because it is not a tuition discount; subject to annual funding limits.
📄
How to Apply
Develop a research or creative project plan with a faculty mentor and submit a URA application, including proposal and budget, by the program deadline.
Selection criteria: Proposals are evaluated on clarity, feasibility, academic merit, and strength of faculty mentorship.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP lists URA as offering up to $4,000 in summer stipend support; specific award sizes depend on project scope and available funds.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Undergraduates across majors with clearly defined, faculty-supported research or creative projects and strong URA proposals.
Full TuitionApp Required
Army ROTC Scholarships
📅 Deadline: October 13, January 19, and March 16 national board dates; campus-based applications accepted on a rolling basis.
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA)
Full Tuition
tuition and fee scholarship with book stipend and monthly allowance
✔ Stackable
🏫 2.5+ GPA👥 ~Limited number of national and campus-based ROTC scholarships each year. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers up to full tuition and mandatory fees or a room-and-board option, plus a yearly book stipend (around $1,200) and monthly living allowance; interacts with other aid under Army and UCCS rules so that tuition is not double-funded.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the national Army ROTC scholarship process or campus-based ROTC board, meet Army academic, medical, and fitness standards, and contract as a cadet with the UCCS Army ROTC program.
Selection criteria: Army boards review academic performance, physical fitness, leadership, and officer potential in a holistic selection process.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP table reflects the typical Army ROTC package at UCCS: full tuition and fees, about $1,200 per year for books, and roughly a $420 monthly stipend for contracted cadets maintaining standards.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students pursuing the Army officer track who demonstrate solid academics and leadership, meet fitness and medical requirements, and complete national or campus ROTC applications by board dates.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Bruce and Anne Shepard Reach Your Peak Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1 · 📢 Results: April for freshmen; May for transfer and continuing students
✓ Renews (2.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 2.5+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Need-based and renewable for up to four years — designed to layer with Pell, Colorado state grants, and other UCCS or external scholarships to chip away at unmet need.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the FAFSA (or CASFA for ASSET students) and the UCCS General Scholarship Application by March 1. Selected freshmen are notified in early April; transfer and continuing UCCS students are notified in May. Recipients complete a post-acceptance questionnaire that includes a thank-you letter and video.
Selection criteria: Selection emphasizes financial need, academic standing, and likelihood of degree completion within four years.
💡
Strategic Detail
Worth $4,000 per year, renewable up to four years. Open to Colorado residents pursuing their first undergraduate degree, enrolled full-time, with a 2.5+ cumulative GPA, demonstrated financial need (FAFSA or CASFA for ASSET students), and the intent to work at least part-time during the academic year. Applicants with a Student Aid Index above $10,000 will most likely not qualify. Recipients participate in a supplemental support program through Reach Your Peak.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Colorado-resident freshmen and transfers working on their first undergraduate degree with a 2.5+ GPA, real financial need (SAI generally under $10,000), and the bandwidth to work at least part-time during the academic year. Exceptions to the work requirement are made for primary caregivers and extenuating circumstances.
App Required
Clement Family Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1 · 📢 Results: April
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
👥 ~Very small number of awards each year, given the size of the per-recipient package. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
One of the most generous program-specific awards at UCCS — $10,000 per semester for up to four years totals $80,000. Generally stacks with the Chancellor's Award, Peak Award, and other UCCS scholarships up to cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to UCCS and the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences, then submit the UCCS General Scholarship Application through the AcademicWorks portal by March 1. Notifications go out in April.
Selection criteria: Merit-based review for Beth-El admits, with weighted preference for Eastern Plains and Limon HS applicants.
💡
Strategic Detail
Major-restricted merit award for incoming freshmen at the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences pursuing a career in the medical field. Typical award is $10,000 per semester (about $20,000 per year), up to $80,000 over four years if eligibility standards are met. Strong preference for students from the Eastern Plains of Colorado, with particular encouragement for Limon High School graduates.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming freshmen admitted to Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences who can show high academic motivation and a clear pathway into the medical field. Students from the Eastern Plains of Colorado — and especially Limon High School graduates — are particularly encouraged to apply and given strong preference.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Education Abroad Scholarships
📅 Deadline: March 1
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Awards can be combined with federal, state, and institutional aid to reduce the out‑of‑pocket cost of approved education abroad experiences.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to a UCCS-approved education abroad program and submit the related scholarship applications through the UCCS Education Abroad portal and/or external sponsor sites by posted deadlines.
Selection criteria: Essays, academic standing, and demonstrated need/impact are key selection criteria.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP notes typical award ranges between about $500 and $5,000 depending on program, funding source, and student need; some awards target need-based or first-generation students.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with solid GPAs, strong impact essays, and often demonstrated financial need or first‑generation status who are participating in approved UCCS abroad programs.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Kennedy First Generation Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1
✓ Renews
$1,000–$2,500/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Award may be renewed if students maintain satisfactory academic progress, first-generation standing, and Colorado residency; can be combined with other aid up to the cost of attendance.
📄
How to Apply
First-generation undergraduates, particularly from rural Colorado, apply through the UCCS scholarship portal, complete the FAFSA, and provide information about their background and goals.
Selection criteria: Committee weighs first-generation and rural background, financial need, and academic progress.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
CRP notes typical Kennedy awards in the $1,000–$2,500 per year range, with preference for rural Colorado first-generation students.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: First-generation Colorado undergraduates, especially those with ties to rural communities and demonstrated financial need.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Disclaimer: Award ranges reflect institutional/donor postings; review the UCCS portal or sponsor site for the most recent cycle info.
Sources:
UCCS Scholarships Office – https://uccs.academicworks.com/
UCCS Undergraduate Research Academy – https://ura.uccs.edu/
Education Abroad Scholarships – https://abroad.uccs.edu/
LIVE Leadership/First2Go/Leadership Programs – https://studentlife.uccs.edu/leadership/
Army ROTC at UCCS – https://armyrotc.uccs.edu/
Financial Aid & Scholarships – https://finaid.uccs.edu/scholarships/
🎖️ Honors College
The UCCS Honors Program is small, selective, and designed for students who want more than just strong grades — it’s for those ready to dive into small seminars, take on big questions, and connect closely with faculty mentors. Admission is by application and interview, with about 25–30 students admitted each fall.
What a Typical UCCS Honors Student Looks Like:
High school GPA around 3.6+, advanced coursework (AP/IB or dual enrollment), strong writing skills, and a record of leadership or service. A successful interview is also part of the process.
Perks that Matter:
- Priority course registration
- Small honors-only seminars and interdisciplinary courses
- Dedicated Honors Lounge and enhanced library privileges
- Transcript and graduation recognition
- Capstone opportunities for research and creative projects
App Required
UCCS Honors Program Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 18 · 📢 Results: April
✓ Renews (3.5 GPA, 4 yrs)
$1,000–$4,500/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.5+ GPA👥 ~About 25–30 students are typically invited to join each Honors cohort each fall. winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stacks with the Chancellor's Award, Peak Award, CLC, and other institutional or external scholarships, subject to cost-of-attendance limits. The scholarship amount actually grows as you advance: small as a first-year, larger as you climb to senior and Accelerated Master's territory.
📄
How to Apply
Apply and be admitted to UCCS, then submit the UCCS General Scholarship Application through the AcademicWorks portal and complete the Honors Program supplemental essay (300–1,000 words on how you connect to the Honors Program core values and the discovery of knowledge). Finalists are contacted for an interview in March; interviews are held in March.
Selection criteria: Holistic Honors review weighted on GPA, essay quality, interview presentation, and demonstrated alignment with Honors Program values (empathy, multiple perspectives, intellectual curiosity, scholarly engagement).
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Tiered honors scholarship that grows as you progress: $1,000 for first-year students, $1,000–$1,500 for sophomores, $1,000–$2,000 for juniors, $1,000–$3,500 for seniors, and $1,500–$4,500 for seniors enrolled in an Accelerated Master's Program (AMP). Admitted Honors freshmen must enroll in the GPS 1010 (Gray Matters) seminar and HNRS 3011 (Conversations About Complexity) course in year one. Finalist interviews in March, notifications in April.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming Honors-admitted freshmen with cumulative high school GPAs around 3.5+ (preferred but not strictly required), strong essays that genuinely engage with the Honors Program's core values, and solid interview presence. Active Honors participation — coursework, symposium, advising meetings — is expected to keep the scholarship through graduation.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Is admission automatic?
No. Students must apply via the UCCS Scholarship portal and interview.
Does Honors add time to degree?
No. Honors classes count toward core/electives, so most students graduate on time.
When should I apply?
Application opens Dec 1; priority deadline is Feb 1.
Does Honors come with extra scholarships?
Program scholarships are available, but amounts may vary; all applicants must complete the portal application.
Sources:
UCCS Honors Program Scholarship – https://uccs.academicworks.com/opportunities/13439
Honors Program Application – https://honors.uccs.edu/hp-app
UCCS Scholarships Office – https://uccs.academicworks.com/
Scholarship Deadlines – https://finaid.uccs.edu/scholarships/
⭐ College Specialty
UCCS has carved out a reputation in areas that matter to Colorado Springs and beyond — cybersecurity, space, health sciences, and sport management. Families looking for degrees that plug directly into strong local industries will find UCCS programs tied closely to career pipelines. While it’s not an R1 research university, UCCS has built nationally recognized centers and partnerships that help its students stand out.
Cybersecurity & Space Security: UCCS is home to the National Cybersecurity Center and the Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Space ISAC). Students get hands-on training and direct access to employers in defense and intelligence — making this one of the most distinctive programs in the region.
- Space Operations Engineering — Graduate-level space operations program feeding into Colorado’s fast-growing space industry (ties to U.S. Space Command and local contractors).
- Beth-El College of Nursing — Consistently high NCLEX pass rates; among Colorado’s top-performing nursing programs with strong hospital partnerships.
- Sport Management (AACSB-accredited) — Leverages Colorado Springs’ role as “Olympic City USA,” giving students internships with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and national sports organizations.
Final Thoughts
UCCS blends the feel of a regional campus with programs that connect directly to Colorado Springs’ biggest industries — from cybersecurity and space to health sciences and sport management. Families can take advantage of automatic awards, hidden gems like ROTC and First-Gen scholarships, and the Honors Program for motivated students who want more. With WUE and competitive aid layered in, UCCS can be a surprisingly affordable choice for both Colorado residents and out-of-state students.
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