Student Success Grants

What are the recent federal student loan changes and why do they matter?

On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law, introducing significant changes to federal student aid for graduate and professional students. Most borrowing-related provision took effect beginning July 1, 2026.

Among the most significant changes are:

• Elimination of the Graduate PLUS Loan Program for new borrowers
• New annual and lifetime federal borrowing limits for graduate and professional students
• Loss of "legacy" borrowing eligibility for some students following an interruption in enrollment
• New lifetime loan limits that include prior federal borrowing

These changes may reduce the amount of federal funding available to some students and create funding gaps that did not previously exist. Depending on factors such as your program, borrowing history, and enrollment status, you may need to explore alternative funding options to help finance the remainder of your education.

How can I learn how these federal loan changes affect me?

For more information on the federal changes and how you may be impacted, visit our Federal Student Loan Changes page.

What is "legacy status"? How do I know if I have it?

Generally, legacy status refers to students who remained eligible under previous federal loan rules because they maintained continuous enrollment.

Students who take an extended leave of absence experience, attend part-time and take longer than the program's expected time to completion, or change their degree or program of study may become subject to the newer loan limits.

Because individual situations vary, students should consult Financial Aid at [email protected] if you still have questions about your specific circumstances.

What does "last-dollar funding" mean and what other resources are available now?

Student Success Grants are intended to serve as a "last-dollar funding resource" to help bridge remaining funding gaps after other options have been exhausted. To be eligible for grant assistance, students must first explore and utilize other available funding sources.

This includes:

• Federal loans
• Federal and state grants
• Scholarships and program-based financial assistance
• Payment plans
• Private loans

We encourage students to work with the Financial Aid Office to understand all available options and identify resources, including private student loans, that may help address funding gaps.

What types of expenses can Student Success Grants help cover?

Grant funding may be used for eligible educational and completion-related expenses, including:

• Tuition and mandatory fees
• Outstanding institutional balances
• Required course materials and fees
• Essential living expenses, such as housing, utilities, food, and transportation

Priority may be given to expenses that directly support continued enrollment and degree completion.

How much funding can students receive?

Award amounts are based on your verified financial gap, prioritizing tuition and mandatory fees. Awards cannot exceed your financial aid eligibility or Cost of Attendance limits.

Can I receive more than one Student Success Grant?

No. Eligibility is limited to one Student Success Grant per student. Additional applications or requests for funding will not be considered at this time.

How do I apply?

Students can begin the application process at the link below.

Begin the Application

The application will request:

• Information about your financial circumstances
• A brief statement describing your financial hardship
• An explanation of how funding challenges may affect program completion
• Information about other funding resources you already explored
• Additional documentation of financial gaps, funding loss, proof of pursuing private funding, and any additional documentation that supports the circumstances described in your application.

Is there a deadline?

Applications are currently being accepted on a rolling basis.

What information or documents will I need to apply?

You should expect to provide information about:

• Your financial circumstances
• Funding sources already explored
• Private funding approvals or denials
• Any additional information about extenuating circumstances

Will I need to meet with Financial Aid?

It is not necessary to meet with Financial Aid prior to applying. For questions, contact [email protected].

How are applications reviewed?

Applications will be reviewed by the Student Success Committee based on eligibility criteria, demonstrated need, and available resources.

How will I know if I have been selected?

You will receive an award notification from the Office of Financial Aid and you will also see the award in your student portal.

How will grant funds be distributed?

If selected, The Office of Financial Aid will notify you about next steps.

Can I appeal the committee's decision?

At this time, there is no formal appeal process for the committee's decision. All applications are carefully reviewed based on the established eligibility criteria and the information provided with the application.

Where can I find other student resources?

Visit the Student Resources page.

If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911. For immediate mental health support and access to a counselor, call or text 988 or chat at https://www.988colorado.com/.

Who can I contact with questions?

[email protected]