New direct admissions partnership with CU Denver expands college opportunities for 27J students

The new school year marks the start of a new partnership between 27J Schools and the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) that will give eligible students a guaranteed pathway to admission at CU Denver.

Effective immediately, qualified 27J high school students who graduate with a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher will be offered direct admission to CU Denver. The CU Denver Direct Admissions Program recognizes students’ academic achievement while also giving students and families greater certainty as they plan for life after high school.

Eligible students will receive a welcome email from CU Denver with information about how to apply, explore the university and learn more about their next steps. 

“This is going to remove all kinds of barriers. It’s one thing when teachers, counselors, and high school officials are telling [students], ‘You should do this, it will be a great opportunity’. But when a college reaches out and says that, I think it will make a world of difference. We’re so excited about this,” said Jill Woodford, a counselor at Brighton High School.

27J Schools is the latest district in Colorado to establish a direct admissions agreement with CU Denver. The program is part of the university’s broader commitment to expand access to a four-year degree and create stronger connections between Colorado’s high schools, higher education institutions and the workforce.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with CU Denver to offer this new opportunity to our students,” said Will Pierce, 27J Schools Superintendent. “Navigating the college application process is a challenging time. This direct admissions agreement removes some of the pressure by making a postsecondary education more accessible.”