Pre-arrival Programs
CU Boulder's Pre-arrival Programs offer students the opportunity to move in early and meet people who share similar interests. Pre-arrival Programs focus on environment and sustainability, adventure and getting involved on campus and in the community.Ìý
Students living in campus housing will be required to select a move-in appointment; you will get more details to your CU Boulder email account about move-in appointments. Those accepted to a pre-arrival program will be assigned a move-in date of Friday, Aug. 14, 2026. More detailed instructions will be communicated to each student after they have been accepted by their respective program.Ìý
If you are interested in multiple programs, we recommend that you apply to all programs that appeal to you, keeping in mind that each program has a different capacity limit. Staff from each program will work together to review applications and send offers of acceptance.ÌýÌý
For the best chance of acceptance, submit your application by the June 10 priority deadline. All applications must be submitted by the final deadline of July 8.Ìý
Pre-arrival Programs
SKO Serve Fall Welcome
Start your transition to CU by participating in the Sko Serve Fall Welcome pre-arrival program! This is a unique three-day service opportunity for incoming first-year students in the Service and Social Action LLC, located in Darley North and South. This experience allows you to make a difference before classes begin. You’ll connect with incoming students, explore campus and local non-profits and make an impact through meaningful service and reflection.ÌýÌý
From Aug. 16–18, students will engage in service projects focused on environmental conservation, food insecurity and housing insecurity. Each day’s service will run approximately from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., followed by a group reflection.ÌýÌý
Sko Serve will provide breakfast, lunch and transportation to and from all service sites.Ìý
Hallett Living Learning Communities
Planning to live in one of the Hallett Living Learning Communities? Hallett LLC students move in early to build a strong community with other new Buffs! There will be fun activities every day hosted by the Peer Mentors and RAs, allowing you to meet and make new friends!ÌýÌý
Students who are interested in living in a Hallett LLC will need to preference their preferred LLC as their top choice in their housing application. Students who preference a Hallett LLC as their top choice on their housing application will also need to complete a short essay application (which will be emailed to your @colorado.edu email address in May).ÌýÌý
*Please note you must live in Hallett Hall to participate in this LLC.Ìý
Mind andÌýBody Buffs
Start your CU journey feeling grounded, connected and confident. Mind and Body Buffs is a free pre‑arrival program hosted by Health Promotion for new students who want to prioritize their well‑being before the semester begins. This immersive experience introduces you to practical wellness tools, campus support and a community of students who care about living well—together.ÌýÌý
If you’re excited to focus on your mental, physical and emotional well‑being from day one, Mind and Body Buffs is a great way to kick off your time as a Buff.Ìý
EcoReps
This group of first year and transfer students embarks on a year-long journey to learn about sustainability and green living through experience-based leadership programs, field trips and training sessions. EcoReps share this new-found knowledge with their residence hall communities through active programming and dialogue that builds community and provides invaluable professional experience for the EcoReps themselves.Ìý
Fall Gateway
Fall Gateway is for newly admitted first-year TRIO SSS students only. A pre-arrival program that extends four days prior to fall courses, allowing students to participate in extended new student welcome events and academic intensives to further prepare them for the academic transition to the university.Ìý
Please note that you must meet eligibility requirements to participate in Fall Gateway.Ìý
Engineering Pre-arrival Programs
Broadening Opportunities through Leadership and Diversity (BOLD) Programs Orientation
All incoming first year scholars participate in an orientation experience to build community and adapt to life on campus. Learn how BOLD will support you in your academic, professional and personal journey.
*Please note you must be an engineering student to participate in this program.
Engineering Honors Program RAP
Honors Engineering Program RAP is committed to the idea of community and bringing together students and faculty that are ambitious without being competitive, serious without being obsessive, committed to the success of others without sacrificing their own achievements and who enjoy engineering without being defined by it.
*Please note you must be an engineering student and meet eligibility requirements to participate in this program.
Global Engineering RAP
This program prepares students to be the next generation of engineers working in a global context. Coursework and extracurricular activities build a community of engineers who are interested in how we can work together toward global poverty reduction while also improving students’ global awareness and fluency in language and culture.Ìý
*Please note you must be an engineering student and meet eligibility requirements to participate in this program.
Campos Student Center Programs Orientation
Incoming first-year BOLD scholarship students participate in an orientation experience to build community and adapt to life on campus!ÌýYou must have the BOLD scholarship to participate.
*Please note, you must be an engineering student to participate in this program.Ìý
Outdoor Pursuits: CU Bound
Want an unforgettable adventure, but not ready to swap your bed for a tent? We've got you covered! Get to know other incoming students and explore our scenic mountain base, all while sleeping in the comfort of bunk beds. Sample a variety of activities including climbing, high ropes, fly fishing and stand-up paddle boarding! No prior experience required.Ìý
Outdoor Pursuits: CU in the Rockies
Spend time backpacking and getting to know other incoming students in the Rocky Mountains! This trip starts with activities to help you get to know your group before heading out for a scenic float trip on the Colorado River. Afterwards you will head to the Flat Top Mountains for an unforgettable five days of backpacking. No prior experience needed.ÌýÌý
Outdoor Pursuits: CU Mountain Fest
At CU Boulder adventure is right in our backyard! Spend a few days exploring your new surroundings, making new friends and learning new skills! A nearby state park will serve as the basecamp for the duration of the trip and provide the backdrop for a variety of activities. Hike, climb and fish during the day and take in the beautiful expanse of the Milky Way at night.ÌýÌý