All 32 public colleges and universities in the state are participating, along with several private institutions. Students can find online application instructions through the Colorado Department of Higher Education; participation and details may vary by school.

The fee waiver can help students apply to multiple schools without accumulating costs that might otherwise limit their choices. Denver Scholarship Foundation college adviser Yosedit Romero said application fees can range from about $50 to $100, including higher costs at some out-of-state colleges.

Romero works with students and families on the college-going process, connecting them with information and resources throughout high school. She encourages students to use the free-application period to explore options rather than rule out schools before applying.

West High School senior Mahi Hardiman said the waived fees will help him apply to schools despite not having much money. He hopes to study photography, fashion design and possibly engineering. His top choices are Colorado State University in Fort Collins, the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Northern Colorado.

Colorado ranks first nationally in the share of residents with some form of college-level credential: 62.9% have a certificate, certification or degree, according to Lumina Foundation data. The statewide initiative is intended to encourage more residents to pursue higher education.