Emotional Support Animals at the University of Colorado Boulder: A Complete Student Guide
For many students at the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder), transitioning to campus life brings excitement — and sometimes anxiety, stress, or emotional challenges. Fortunately, CU Boulder recognizes the important role Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) can play in supporting mental health and overall well-being.
Under CU Boulder’s housing policies, “assistance animals,” including ESAs, are permitted in on-campus housing once a student receives official approval. This guide breaks down everything students need to know about ESA eligibility, the approval process, and tips for living with an ESA in campus housing.
What Is an Emotional Support Animal?
An Emotional Support Animal is an animal that provides therapeutic comfort to individuals experiencing emotional or mental health challenges. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not required to be trained for specific tasks. Their presence alone helps reduce anxiety, depression, or other conditions that may interfere with daily life.
Does CU Boulder Allow ESAs in Student Housing?
Yes. CU Boulder allows Emotional Support Animals in campus housing as part of its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
The university classifies ESAs under “assistance animals,” and students must complete an approval process before bringing an ESA into residence halls or apartments.
This ensures that:
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Students with disabilities receive necessary accommodations
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Health and safety standards are upheld
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Roommates and community expectations are respected
How to Get ESA Approval at CU Boulder
CU Boulder requires students to follow a formal process before their ESA can live with them in campus housing.
1. Register with Disability Services
Students submit documentation to CU Boulder Disability Services verifying their disability and need for an ESA. Documentation typically must come from a licensed mental health professional.
2. Complete the CU Boulder Housing ESA Request
Once Disability Services confirms eligibility, students proceed with the Housing & Residential Education ESA request.
3. Sign the Assistance Animal Agreement
Students must review and sign CU Boulder’s Assistance Animal Agreement, which outlines:
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Owner responsibilities
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Care requirements
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Behavioral standards
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Roommate notification procedures
4. Receive Final Approval
Students should wait for written approval before moving an ESA into campus housing.
Living With an ESA at CU Boulder: What Students Should Know
Bringing an ESA to campus comes with responsibilities. CU Boulder requires ESA owners to:
Provide proper care
Students must ensure their ESA:
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Is healthy and vaccinated
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Is well cared for and groomed
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Does not pose a danger or disruption
Maintain clean standards
Owners must clean up after their animals in both shared and private spaces.
Respect roommates and neighbors
Students should communicate with roommates and be mindful of:
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Allergies
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Noise
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Shared space expectations
Ensure good behavior
ESAs must not cause repeated disruptions such as excessive barking, aggressive behavior, or property damage.
Why Students Choose ESAs at CU Boulder
For many CU Boulder students, ESAs provide emotional grounding in a busy academic environment. Benefits include:
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Reduced stress and anxiety
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Improved mood
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A sense of routine and responsibility
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Companionship during challenging college transitions
For students far from home or under academic pressure, ESAs can help create a sense of comfort and stability.
How PetCerts Helps CU Boulder Students
PetCerts provides legitimate, clinician-issued ESA letters that meet federal and university requirements.
Our letters are written by licensed mental health professionals and can be used for CU Boulder’s housing accommodation request.
We make the process simple, fast, and fully compliant, so students can focus on their education — not paperwork.