International Undergraduate Students
Congratulations on your acceptance to CU Boulder! We are excited to have you join our Buff family and begin your CU journey. Now that you have been accepted to CU Boulder, here are the next steps for you to complete.
- Email welcome@colorado.edu
- Call or text +1 303-492-4431.
Need to change your major?
Students wishing to change majors can log in to their CU Boulder Admissions Application Status Page. There, you will see an option to submit a major change request form. Please complete that form to be considered. Major changes are not guaranteed, and there are typically additional steps needed when requesting to change from one college or school into another. If you are requesting a second major change, please contact your admission counselor.
Get Started
International students are not eligible for federal financial aid. For funding options, please visit our International Financial Aid page.
First-year students - Explore your living options to find the space that is right for you. The housing application is available beginning March 3, 2025.
Transfer students - Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations can help with your housing search. CU Boulder student can use Ralphie's List to search for available rentals.
All incoming students must attend New Student Orientation (NSO) or Transfer New Student Orientation (TSO) in June or July. During NSO or TSO you will learn more about life as a CU Buff, meet with academic advisors and register for fall classes.
Note: You must complete the Online Experience before attending NSO or TSO.
Your Buff OneCard serves as your campus identification and therefore you must submit your Buff OneCard photo. Depending on your student status and choices, it may also carry your meal plan, allow you to pay for laundry, access to your residence hall and more!
CU Boulder assigns holds or to-dos to inform you of steps you may need to complete. A hold prevents you from taking some kind of action (such as registering for classes) until it is resolved. A to-do is a recommended action that certain students need to complete.
Deadline: Complete as soon as possible
Advising and registration
You are encouraged to complete placement assessments as soon as you can as results may impact registration.
New students will meet with an academic advisor during New Student Orientation. Advisors will be able to assist with question about your first semester schedule, transfer credit and finding the academic path that is right for you.
Before arriving on campus
Make sure to submit your final official transcripts to the Office of Admissions. Official transcripts are mailed or sent electronically directly to the Office of Admissions by the issuing institution or by the student if the transcript is still in its original sealed envelope.
Transcripts can be emailed to transcripts@colorado.edu or mailed. We highly recommend submitting your official transcripts prior to new student orientation.
Deadline: Complete as soon as possible. Please allow 3-5 weeks for processing.
All students must complete health insurance, immunization and health questionnaire requirements before their first semester at CU.
Deadline: Due dates vary
All new international students in F-1 or J-1 status MUST arrive no later than the date reflected on their form I-20/DS-2019.
Fall program start date: TBD
All international students MUST attend the required in-person International Student Orientation Aug. 16-17.
Review the International Student Late Arrival Policy:
Make sure to review the following information prior to your arrival in the U.S. You must complete the Immigration Check-in requirements prior to the first day of fall 2025 course work!
After arriving on campus
Join us for International Student Orientation on Aug. 16-17! You'll learn about campus resources, meet other new Buffs and find out all about resources available to you on campus!