University of Washington Seattle

Office of Admissions

• Freshman
  • 1. Send Standardized Tests
  • 2. Explore Majors
  • 3. Gather Required Documents
  • 4. Keep Deadlines in Mind
  • 5. Apply For Admission
  • 6. Apply for Honors
  • 7. Send Transcripts?
  • 8. Apply for Financial Aid
  • 9. The Review Process
  • 10. The Admission Decision
    • Guidelines for Special Admission and Appeal
• Transfer
• International
• Postbacs

ACADEMIC PREPARATION & PERFORMANCE

While the UW looks at many factors in reviewing applications for admission, academic preparation and performance are still primary. Indicators of preparation and performance include:

• An overall strong level of academic achievement as demonstrated by GPA, rigor of curriculum, standardized test scores, and academic distinctions
• Taking advantage of college-preparatory courses during high school, such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Running Start, or college in the high school; or core subjects beyond the minimum required for college entrance
• Taking full academic advantage of the senior year
• Demonstrating a positive grade trend
• Demonstrating habits associated with independent intellectual growth such as self-guided reading, engagement with other cultures, or research activities
• Demonstrating exceptional artistic talent and achievement

PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENTS & CHARACTERISTICS

In addition to academic preparation and performance, personal achievements and characteristics can also indicate promise to benefit from and contribute to the University of Washington. These include:

• Demonstrating a commitment to community service and leadership
• Exercising significant responsibility in a family, community, employment, or through activities
• Attaining a college-preparatory education in the face of significant personal adversity, economic disadvantage, or disability
• Demonstrating cultural awareness or unique perspectives or experiences
• Demonstrating notable tenacity, insight, originality, or creativity

The entire application, including the essays and short narrative of activities, is important in the individualized application review. So, use the application to share with the University who you are and what is important to you. Put your best foot forward and never stop preparing for your transition to college-level studies.