The Flatirons are waiting, and so is campus.

In just a few weeks, thousands of new students will arrive at the University of Colorado Boulder to begin one of the biggest chapters of their lives. Whether you’re an incoming freshman or the parent of one, the days leading up to move-in can feel exciting, overwhelming, and a little uncertain.

The good news? CU Boulder has spent decades helping new Buffs make a smooth transition. Here’s everything you need to know before you arrive.

Important Dates

Mark these dates on your calendar:

• Friday, August 14: Move-in begins for students participating in approved pre-arrival programs.
• Saturday, August 15: International students and select special groups move in.
• Sunday, August 16 through Tuesday, August 18: Most first-year and returning students move in by scheduled appointment.
• Sunday, August 16: Fall Welcome officially begins.
• Tuesday, August 18: “Welcome to Our Herd” New Student Convocation and Class Photo at the CU Events Center.
• Thursday, August 20: First day of classes.

Before arriving, download the CU Boulder Life app. It contains the latest Fall Welcome schedule, campus maps, and event updates throughout your first weeks on campus.

Farrand Field

Learn the Campus Early

One of the best things you can do during your first couple of days is simply walk around.

Start at Farrand Field, often called the heart of freshman life. Between classes you’ll find students relaxing in the grass, tossing frisbees, studying, or simply enjoying one of the most iconic views of the Flatirons.

From there, head to the University Memorial Center (UMC). The UMC is the center of student activity, with restaurants, coffee shops, the CU Book Store, meeting spaces, lounges, and plenty of places to study or connect with friends.

As classes begin, spend some time inside Norlin Library. It’s one of the quietest and most productive places on campus, and chances are you’ll spend many hours there during your college career.

If you’re looking for something different, visit Fiske Planetarium, one of the nation’s premier university planetariums. It hosts astronomy shows, laser light performances, and special events throughout the year.

Fiske Planetarium

Transportation Made Easy

One of Boulder’s biggest advantages is that you don’t need a car.

Campus is extremely walkable and one of the most bike-friendly universities in the country. Students also have access to the free Buff Bus system and RTD buses, making it easy to travel around campus and throughout Boulder.

If you’re living in Williams Village or another residence hall farther from central campus, spend a few minutes during your first week learning the bus routes. You’ll appreciate it once classes get busy.

Parking permits are limited, expensive, and highly competitive. Most freshmen quickly discover that walking, biking, or riding the bus is faster and much less stressful.

Making Friends Starts During Fall Welcome

The first two weeks are when nearly everyone is looking to meet new people.

Take advantage of Fall Welcome activities. Attend the New Student Convocation, explore club fairs, participate in residence hall events, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to classmates.

You don’t need to join everything.

Instead, choose two or three organizations that genuinely interest you. Whether it’s an outdoor club, intramural sports, student government, volunteer work, music, or an academic organization, showing up consistently is what builds lasting friendships.

Take Advantage of Campus Resources

Two places every freshman should know from day one are Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) and the Student Recreation Center.

College is exciting, but it can also be stressful. CAPS offers confidential counseling, mental health support, wellness workshops, and resources designed to help students succeed.

The Student Recreation Center is consistently recognized as one of the finest university recreation facilities in the country. From fitness equipment and swimming pools to climbing walls, basketball courts, yoga classes, and indoor tracks, it’s an outstanding place to stay healthy while meeting other students.

Experience Boulder

One of the greatest advantages of attending CU Boulder is that your campus blends seamlessly with one of America’s most active outdoor communities.

A short walk or bus ride brings you to Pearl Street Mall, where you’ll find restaurants, coffee shops, local boutiques, street performers, and plenty of places to relax between classes.

When you need a break from studying, Boulder delivers.

Boulder Creek

The Boulder Creek Path, Chautauqua Park, and the Mesa Trail are all within easy reach of campus. Whether you enjoy hiking, running, biking, or simply sitting outside with friends, the outdoors quickly becomes part of everyday life.

Boulder is also known for its outstanding food scene. From breakfast burritos and green chile to international cuisine, coffee shops, and vegetarian favorites, you’ll quickly discover why students love exploring the city beyond campus.

Enchanted Mesa Trail, Boulder, CO

Finding Your Balance

Perhaps the biggest adjustment for most freshmen isn’t the coursework—it’s learning how to manage your time.

Boulder offers endless opportunities to hike, explore downtown, attend concerts, or spend time with friends. Those experiences are a huge part of college life, but so is developing good habits.

The students who thrive usually establish a routine early. They attend class, stay ahead on assignments, get enough sleep, and then enjoy everything Boulder has to offer. The mountains will still be there after you finish your homework.

Final Thoughts

No one expects you to have everything figured out during your first week.

Everyone around you is beginning the same journey.

Learn your way around campus. Attend a few Fall Welcome events. Find a favorite study spot. Introduce yourself to the people in your residence hall. Give yourself permission to feel a little uncertain—that’s part of the experience.

Before long, the campus that feels unfamiliar today will begin to feel like home.

Classes begin on Thursday, August 20.

The Flatirons are waiting.

Welcome to Boulder. Welcome to the Herd!

AboutBoulder-admin