Gateway Days

Gateway Days is an immersive co-curricular experience designed to provide first-year students at UCCS with access to classes, resources, and activities at UCCS. It all happens before the start of the fall semester and helps first-year students with the transition to university life and campus.

Incoming first-year students with earned dual enrollment credit in high school ARE required to take a GPS course, regardless of credits earned.

Incoming first-year students at UCCS who transfer with 30+ credits earned from another institution or are an active military or veteran student, with a E5 rank or higher ARE NOT required to take a GPS course; however, it is highly recommended that they complete GSP 3010

When is Gateway Days?

For Fall 2026, Gateway Days will be held on Thursday, August 20th and Friday, August 21st, 2026. All courses will meet from 9 am - 5 pm on both days.

Is Gateway Days Mandatory?

Gateway Days is part of the GPS course. All first-year students at UCCS (except for students with 30 transfer credits or more) are required to take a GPS course, including students with concurrent enrollment or dual credit work earned in high school.

Gateway Days are required for students enrolled in ALL GPS courses except the following: online courses (designated by "OL"), GPS 3010, Session B courses (with an October start date and designated by "H" on the course catalogue) or Academic Prep courses with a 1110 designation.

Gateway Days is required of students enrolled in Pre-Term courses ( August 17th - 21st ).

Can I Attend Gateway Days if My Class Does Not Participate?

Absolutely! If you are a student in any GPS course not participating in Gateway Days, feel free to attend larger events and activities planned for the day(s), such as on-campus recreational activities, West Lawn events, and the First-Year Frenzy job fair. Lunch will also be provided for any student on campus at this time. Check the Gateway Days calendar for time, event, and location information.

What Should I Bring to Gateway Days?

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for all activities. Bring water, sunscreen, snacks (if needed), and classroom essentials like laptops, notebooks, and pens. Lunch is provided to all students during Gateway Days, including beverages and snacks.