Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about applying to CSU Pueblo, sending transcripts, admissions standards, transfer credit, readmission, international student support, and next steps.
One Place for Admissions Answers
This page brings together the most common questions from our former first-year, transfer, returning, and international student FAQ pages so students can find answers without moving between multiple pages.
First-Year Students
Questions about freshman admission standards, test scores, transcripts, scholarships, and AP or IB credit.
View First-Year FAQsTransfer Students
Questions about transfer admission requirements, transcripts, credit evaluation, and registration.
View Transfer FAQsReturning Students
Questions about readmission, application processing, transcripts, advising, and registration.
View Returning FAQsInternational Students
Questions about living in Pueblo, transportation, housing, test score codes, and student support.
View International FAQsGeneral Admissions Questions
Start here for common questions that apply to multiple student types.
Who can I contact to learn more about CSU Pueblo?
The Office of Admissions and your PACK Center advisor are available to assist you in person or remotely.
Where do I send application, transcript, or admission-related documents?
Documents may be emailed to info@csupueblo.edu or mailed to:
CSU Pueblo Office of Admissions
2200 Bonforte Blvd.
Pueblo, CO 81001-4901
Applications must be submitted online. Official transcripts must be received directly from the issuing institution. A transcript sent by a student or parent is considered unofficial.
How do I pay my application fee?
Colorado students apply free every day to CSU Pueblo and should not pay an application fee. Students from outside Colorado may be prompted to pay their application fee through the Applicant Portal.
Students who need assistance should call Admissions at 719.549.2462.
What does it cost to attend CSU Pueblo?
The CSU Board of Governors meets annually each May to determine tuition and fees for the upcoming year.
What is the College Opportunity Fund?
The College Opportunity Fund, or COF, provides a stipend to eligible undergraduate students who are Colorado residents. Students must apply for COF to receive the benefit.
Can I qualify for in-state tuition after living in Colorado for a year?
Residency for tuition purposes is based on multiple factors and is not automatically granted to out-of-state students after one year. Students must prove intent to reside in Colorado while avoiding rule-out factors that tie them to another state of residency.
For more information, review the residency pages or contact Admissions at 719.549.2462 or info@csupueblo.edu.
Is there public transportation?
Public transportation is available through Pueblo Transit. The bus stop is located on the south end of campus in front of the Buell Communications Center.
What Division II athletics does CSU Pueblo offer?
CSU Pueblo offers a variety of NCAA Division II men’s and women’s athletic programs. Current sport offerings and team information are available through CSU Pueblo Athletics.
First-Year Student FAQs
Questions for students applying after high school graduation or GED completion.
What are the admissions standards for first-year students?
First-year applicants are evaluated on the content and rigor of high school coursework, grades or high school rank, and standardized test scores, if submitted. Students must successfully graduate from high school and generally have a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.3.
Students with a cumulative or semester GPA below 2.3 may be prompted to submit a Statement of Academic Performance explaining their academic history and goals.
As a first-year student, when should I apply?
The undergraduate application for the upcoming fall semester generally opens at the beginning of the academic year. High school seniors are encouraged to apply by November 1 of their senior year for maximum scholarship eligibility, but CSU Pueblo accepts applications throughout the academic year and up through August 1 before classes begin.
Students who earned college credit after graduating high school should apply as transfer students, not first-year students.
What standardized tests are required for first-year students?
CSU Pueblo is test optional. ACT or SAT scores are encouraged but not required for undergraduate admission. Scores may help students avoid a math placement exam and may be requested for some institutional scholarships.
Official scores must be sent directly from the testing service or from the high school. CSU Pueblo’s ACT code is 0524 and SAT code is 4611.
What financial aid packages are available?
CSU Pueblo offers a variety of options to help students finance their education. Students are encouraged to submit the FAFSA as soon as possible because some funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Students should also complete the CSU Pueblo Foundation Scholarship Application for scholarship consideration.
Why should I provide my Social Security number on my admissions application?
The financial aid process is driven by the FAFSA, which requires a Social Security number. Providing a Social Security number on the admissions application helps CSU Pueblo match your admission record with your financial aid record and can help expedite the financial aid awarding process.
Can first-year students have cars on campus?
Yes. Students may park a car on campus by purchasing a parking permit online through PAWS or in person at the Parking and Safety Office on the bottom floor of the Administration Building.
Does CSU Pueblo give credit for AP or IB classes?
CSU Pueblo participates in the Advanced Placement program. Students who take AP exams and receive qualifying scores may be granted university credit after the Admissions Office receives an official score report.
CSU Pueblo also recognizes International Baccalaureate coursework. Students who complete IB exams and request scores be sent to CSU Pueblo may be eligible to receive credit and advanced placement standing.
Does CSU Pueblo give credit for CLEP or DANTES exams?
Students may receive credit for CLEP or DANTES exams after CSU Pueblo receives an official score report and the student has scored at or above established guidelines. Duplicate credit may not be awarded when a student has already earned college credit in the same subject area.
Does CSU Pueblo offer student exchange programs?
CSU Pueblo offers study abroad and international opportunities through campus programs and partnerships. Students interested in exchange or study abroad should connect with the appropriate campus office for current opportunities.
Transfer Student FAQs
Questions for students who have enrolled in college after high school or GED completion.
What are the requirements for transfer student admission?
Transfer applicants must submit an application for admission and request official college transcripts from every institution attended. You are considered a transfer student if you enrolled in any college courses after graduating high school or earning a GED.
How long does it take to process my transfer application?
Processing time depends on how soon CSU Pueblo receives all information needed to make an admission decision. In many cases, a decision can be made within 48 hours after the application, fee, transcripts, and any required documents are received.
How will I know which transfer credits CSU Pueblo accepted?
After you have been accepted, an official transfer credit evaluation is generally completed within about two weeks. The evaluation shows courses CSU Pueblo accepted in transfer and how they may apply to degree requirements.
Students can also use Transferology for an unofficial estimate of how courses may transfer.
As a transfer student, when can I register for classes?
After being admitted, transfer students should submit the enrollment deposit and schedule an appointment with the PACK Center or the appropriate academic advising area to plan registration.
Returning Student FAQs
Questions for students who previously attended CSU Pueblo and want to return.
As a returning student, when do I have to apply for readmission?
If you have not been enrolled in classes for two or more regular semesters, not including summer, you are required to apply for readmission to CSU Pueblo.
How do I apply for readmission?
Complete an application for admission. If you attended another college or university after leaving CSU Pueblo, submit official transcripts from those institutions.
If your CSU Pueblo coursework GPA is below the required readmission standard, you may need to submit a written statement explaining previous academic difficulties, how you plan to overcome them, and any other information that may help with the admission review.
How long does it take to process an application for readmission?
Most applications are processed within about one week. If you attended another college after leaving CSU Pueblo, the application cannot be processed until official transcripts are received, which may take two to three weeks.
As a returning student, when can I register for classes?
After you receive your acceptance letter, make an appointment with your faculty advisor or appropriate advising office to plan registration.
International Student FAQs
Questions about living in Pueblo, transportation, housing, test scores, and international student support.
What is the weather like in Pueblo, Colorado?
Pueblo is in a semi-arid region. Summers are hot, winters can be cold with snowfall, and temperatures vary during spring and fall. Students arriving in January should consider bringing a winter coat, though suitable clothing can also be purchased after arrival.
How do I file income tax returns as an international student?
International students should review Internal Revenue Service information or seek qualified tax preparation guidance for help with income tax requirements.
Can I use my international driver’s license in Colorado?
An international driver’s license may be used for driving in Colorado while you are a non-resident student. Students should also review current Colorado driving and licensing requirements.
How much does it cost to buy a car and mandatory automobile insurance?
The cost of a vehicle depends on the make, model, year, condition, and maintenance needs. Insurance costs vary based on multiple factors, including driver age, driving experience, and vehicle type.
Liability insurance is the minimum insurance requirement in Colorado and must be obtained when purchasing a vehicle.
Is it cheaper to live on campus or off campus?
Costs vary by student situation. Living off campus may appear less expensive, but students should also consider food, transportation, utilities, and other living costs. Living on campus can provide convenience and access to campus resources.
Unmarried freshmen under age 21 are required to live in the residence halls for the first year of study. Upperclassmen and graduate students may also choose on-campus options such as Walking Stick Village.
Where are ski resorts in Colorado and what is the cost to ski?
Colorado has many ski resorts, with some within driving distance of campus. Costs vary by resort, season, rental needs, and pass type.
Students may also explore campus outdoor recreation opportunities and trips.
Will there be local food markets where I can buy food items from my country?
Major grocery stores in Pueblo often have ethnic food aisles. Colorado Springs and Denver also have Asian food markets and other specialty stores.
What is the public transportation system like in Pueblo?
Pueblo has a public bus system that serves campus during the day. Students may also use bikes or other transportation options depending on their needs. Bus schedules, routes, and fares should be reviewed through Pueblo Transit.
Can I speak or write to someone from my country who is currently attending CSU Pueblo?
Some current students may give permission to connect with prospective students. Contact the appropriate international student support or admissions office with your request.
When requesting official test scores from ETS, what institutional code should I use?
The institutional school code for CSU Pueblo is 4611.
Advising
The PACK Center and Hasan School of Business Advising are available to assist students with academic planning and next steps.
PACK Center: 719.549.2584
Hasan School of Business Advising: 719.549.2142
Online: 719.549.2200
Admissions Office
Address: 2200 Bonforte Blvd., Pueblo, CO 81001
Phone: 719.549.2462
Visitor Center: 719.549.2418
Financial Aid: 719.549.2753
Still Have Questions?
Contact Admissions, find your counselor, or request more information so our team can help you take your next step.