1. Always Use Your Legal Name
International students often use many variations of their name or different names altogether. This can cause confusion and even delays in application processing since we may not realize the differences. Please remember to always use your legal name on all documents (transcripts, test scores, correspondence, etc.) submitted to the UW. Also, when contacting the Office of Admissions by telephone, letter, or email, ALWAYS include your full legal name so that we can easily identify you!
2. Keep a Copy For Your Records
The University receives more than 20,000 applications every year. We strongly encourage you to keep a copy for yourself of your application and all other documents submitted to the UW.
3. Plan Ahead!
Be prepared to submit all required documents, such as official transcripts, official English translations, and official English proficiency test scores, BEFORE the application deadline. Don’t wait until the last minute to submit documents or take required tests. Admission to the UW is competitive, and late applications or documents will not be accepted.
4. Be Patient
We know you are excited and anxious about your application to the UW. We will process every application as quickly as we can and notify you in writing as soon as an admission decision has been made. Notification periods are listed on page 5 of the information packet. However, we cannot provide a specific notification date. Check your application status online to verify that your application is complete and then wait for us to complete the review of applications and notify you of our admission decision.
5. Read the Information Packet and the Applicant Instructions carefully
The information packet and application instructions were created to help you through the application process. It is very important that you read all of the information provided in order to understand the admission process. “I didn’t know” or “I didn’t read it” are not valid reasons for not following the admission process or for not submitting required documents. It is your responsibility to understand the admission information and to ask questions if you do not.
6. “My Friend Said”
Although many students gather information from their friends or family members, that is not the most reliable source of information about UW admission. First, read the information packet for detailed application policies and procedures. If you still have unanswered questions, contact the Office of Admissions. Avoid problems later on by getting the correct information now!
7. Print a Copy of Your Application
If you want to print a copy of your online application for your own records, go to the Activity page from your online application account and then click the PRINT icon at the top of the page to view a print-friendly version of your work. Once opened, this PDF can be saved (downloaded) to your computer. If you also apply to Honors, this is the version of your application you should print and mail.
8. Check Your Status
Once your application has been received and processed by the UW, you will be sent information on how to check your application status online. Be sure to verify your name, address, application quarter, and other information is correct to ensure your application is processed accurately.
