Boulder Universal FAQs

What is Boulder Universal?

We are BVSD's multi-district online school offering virtual classes for grades K-12. Every student receives quality differentiated content.

A teacher is assigned for each course and this teacher is the contact for course curriculum.

Every secondary student is assigned a mentor who acts as a liaison and is the first point of contact for the student and family.  Mentors provide help with the transition to online learning, pacing, parent education, and connection to BU.

A counselor will be there to assist with academic planning, post-secondary planning as well as personal support.

How much does it cost to attend Boulder Universal

Boulder Universal is a public school funded by the state.

• Full time students will receive 12 courses per year at no cost.

Who can enroll at Boulder Universal?

Boulder Universal is open to any BVSD student entering grades K-12.  BU is also a multi-district school; thus, any student from the State of Colorado can attend through the BVSD Open Enrollment process.

While online classes are open to everyone, students who typically have the most success in the online environment are those who are self-motivated, self-advocates, and organized.

Please visit our Enrollment Information page for more details.

How many classes can I take?

Full time students generally take 5-6 courses each semester.

What computer equipment is needed?

• Any computer that can easily access typical internet websites.  All of our content/classes are cloud based. 
• Smartphones and tablets are not recommended for coursework.
• For specific requirements please refer to the Troubleshooting Technology page.

Is there a physical space to work at Boulder Universal?

Yes, our student lab is available for students to come in to work and/or get assistance from BU teachers, counselors, and mentors. View our BU Lab Schedule for hours.

Are students required to attend or be available for courses at a specific time?

Students engage in independent study along with self-paced online work and time management. Courses can be worked on at anytime and anywhere wifi is available. It is the student's responsibility to communicate theirs needs or questions through out the course.

• While there are no live classrooms or lectures to attend, students may be required to meet with teachers via phone, chat or google hangouts as a part of their coursework.
• Some courses do require proctored exams located at our student lab. 
• If a student does not show success working online on their own, the family will be contacted and students can be required to attend the student lab in which to complete their work and receive support.
• State of Colorado compulsory attendance laws require online students to consistently log into their learning management system to track student attendance.

Are textbooks required for online courses?

Most of the curriculum materials and text materials are embedded in the course. There are some courses (mostly AP®) that require a textbook (available by checkout from the mentor). There are a couple of classes that require the student to read a novel. In order to get the necessary literature, students have access to the BU Lab or students can purchase a hard copy or electronic version of the needed materials.

What type of support is available for students with an IEP or 504 plan?

Many of the accommodations contained within an IEP or 504 are inherent in online learning. Please see our Online Accommodations​ for more information. Our staff will also help meet student needs on an individual basis, via phone, email, or in person. 

What type of support is available for English Language Learners?

Our staff is trained to work with English Language Learners and supply the appropriate accommodations within the course work.  In each class, students have access to a reading assistive technology.

How do science labs work online?

Contrary to many expectations, carrying out science labs online is quite easy. Instead of being given a bunch of chemicals, lab coats, and safety goggles, students conduct virtual labs in which they mix various virtual chemicals to see what may result. Students might also be instructed to watch a video of a scientist performing the same demonstration they would receive from their high school teacher. In some cases, labs can be conducted using basic household goods such as salt, vinegar, and baking soda (don’t worry though, it won’t make that big a mess).

When can students take Advanced Placement® tests?

AP® is controlled by The College Board and the exams are offered only one time a year, usually the first part of May.  Most students opt to take their AP Test at their home attendance high school.

Visit the AP Student Website for more information.