First-Year Admissions

Who should use this application?

Apply as a first-year applicant if:

  • You’re in high school, even if you’ve earned some college credit or are enrolled in Running Start.
  • You have graduated high school or earned your GED and haven’t enrolled in any college coursework since graduating.

You should apply as a transfer student if you’ve enrolled in college coursework after graduating from high school or completing your GED. If you require a student visa to study in the United States, you should apply as an international student.

Deciding Which Application to Use

You can apply to Western using the WWU Application or the Common App. Both applications receive full consideration for admission and scholarships so that you can choose the best option for you. Please only submit one application.

WWU Application

This application might be best for you if you are applying to only a few schools. Once you submit your application, you can track its status in your WWU Application Portal.

Common App

Western has joined the Common App! The advantage of the Common App is that you can use the same system to apply to more than 1,000 schools, including every public 4-year college and university in Washington state! Once we receive your application, you will get an invite to set up your WWU Application Portal.

Test Scores are Optional

You aren’t required to submit SAT or ACT test scores to apply to Western Washington University. If you do choose to send scores, we will consider them within our holistic review of your application materials.

Deadlines

First-Year Student Application Deadlines

Western Washington University application deadlines for undergraduate students by quarter.

Fall Quarter
(Early Action)
November 1
Fall Quarter
(Regular Decision)
January 31
Winter Quarter
September 15
Spring Quarter
January 1

About Our Deadlines

When you apply for fall quarter by January 31, you will receive full consideration for merit scholarships. Your priority for housing selection will be determined by when you submit your application—the sooner, the better!

Early Action Deadline (November 1)

The Early Action deadline offers several advantages that may help you in planning for your future:

  • You will receive a response from the Office of Admissions by December 31.
  • You’re guaranteed expedited scholarship review and financial aid notification if admitted.
  • You still have until May 1 to confirm your intent to enroll.

Regular Decision Deadline (January 31)

The Regular Decision deadline is also the last date to file your FAFSA or WAFSA for priority scholarships and financial aid. You’ll receive a decision from the Office of Admissions beginning in March.

You can still apply after January 31, but you will have access to fewer financial aid opportunities and your application will be marked as late.

Look Inside with Our First-Year Student Viewbook

At Western Washington University you will encounter opportunities for academic excellence, community, and growth. Here you can find you, be you, and stand out!