Colorado Residency & the Colorado Opportunity Fund

Colorado residents may qualify for two tuition benefits at Fort Lewis College:

  • The Colorado Opportunity Fund (COF), which is a state stipend that reduces tuition for eligible undergraduate students.
  • In-state tuition classification, which allows eligible students to pay Colorado resident tuition rates.

While both benefits are available to many Colorado residents, they have different eligibility requirements and processes.

Colorado Opportunity Fund

COF is a state benefit that helps eligible in-state undergraduate students reduce tuition costs. Like a grant, COF does not need to be repaid.

COF provides up to 145 credit hours that can be used at eligible Colorado colleges and universities. Students who exceed this limit may request a one-year extension by submitting a COF Limit Waiver. Additional appeals can be submitted through the State of Colorado.

How to receive COF

Eligible Colorado residents must apply for and authorize their COF stipend through the Colorado Opportunity Fund website. COF is not automatically applied to your tuition account.

To receive COF:

  • Apply for COF through the State of Colorado
  • Authorize Fort Lewis College to use your COF stipend
  • Verify that your residency information is accurate

Questions about eligibility? Contact Skyhawk Station for assistance.

Learn more about the Colorado Opportunity Fund

Colorado in-state tuition classification

Colorado law defines residency requirements for in-state tuition and places the burden of proof on the student. Fort Lewis College is required to follow state residency laws and cannot make exceptions to state statute.

Your tuition classification is based on the residency information and supporting documentation you provide. Residency status is not retroactive. If you establish Colorado residency after beginning your studies, your previous tuition charges cannot be reclassified.

Before you apply for residency

To qualify for in-state tuition, students generally must demonstrate that Colorado is their permanent home and maintain residency for the required period established by state law.

We review all residency requests based on the totality of a student's circumstances and supporting documentation.

Colorado residency requirements

Select the category that best describes your situation to learn about eligibility requirements and documentation.

Incoming students
Current students
Immigrants & refugees
Peace Corps Volunteers
Active duty military
Colorado National Guard
Honorably discharged veterans
Veterans and dependents of veterans

Evidence for Colorado residency

To qualify for Colorado resident tuition, you must demonstrate that Colorado has been your permanent home for at least 12 consecutive months before the first day of classes.

Residency determinations are based on the information and documentation you provide. No single document automatically establishes Colorado residency.

Documents that may support your residency determination
Factors that may affect your eligibility
Financial emancipation
Residency & age

Not sure whether you qualify?

Contact Skyhawk Station before submitting a petition. We can help you understand eligibility requirements and required documentation.