QUESTIONS
- What GPA and ACT or SAT score do I need to get into the UW?
- Does the UW prefer the SAT or ACT?
- What are the deadlines for applying to the University of Washington?
- Does the major I list on my application affect my chances of admission?
- As a Running Start student, am I considered a freshman or transfer applicant?
- Does the UW award credit for Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) tests?
- If admitted, may I defer my admission?
- How can I speak with someone about admission to the UW?
1. What GPA and ACT or SAT score do I need to get into the UW?
Many factors considered when evaluating applicants for freshman admission, including intellectual abilities, academic commitment, and diversity of viewpoints, life experiences, talents, and service. Thus, while GPA and ACT or SAT test scores are important factors, the admission decision will be based on much more than past academic record or predicted academic performance. There is no minimum GPA or test score that assures an applicant of admission to the UW.
Useful links: Freshman Review Process
2. Does the UW prefer the SAT or ACT?
We do not have a preference for one test; either take the one you believe you will do the best on, or consider taking both tests. We will use only your highest cumulative test score in the admission process; thus, it never hurts to take the test more than once if you believe you could improve your score. Please note that we do not combine the highest sections from different tests (i.e. – the highest math score with the highest verbal score). Tests must be taken no later than December of your senior year to qualify for autumn admission.
Useful links: Send Standardized Test
3. What are the deadlines for applying to the University of Washington?
We encourage all prospective freshmen to submit a complete application file by December 1 for the autumn quarter. It’s especially important to apply by December 1 for applicants who wish to be considered for UW merit scholarships and for admission to the Honors Program. Applications for the autumn quarter are typically available in late August/early September. The final closing date for autumn quarter 2009 admission is January 15, 2009.
The UW does not offer any type of early decision or early action program. All closing dates are the dates by which the required materials must be postmarked.
| Quarter of application | Quarter begins | Apply during | Priority | Closing date | Offers of admission mailed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn | Late September | November | December 1 | January 15 | December 1 – April 15 |
| Winter | Early January | August | — | September 15 | November – December |
| Spring | Late March | November | — | December 15 | February – March |
| Summer * (degree status) | Mid-June | November | December 1 | January 15 | December 1 – April 15 |
*Choosing summer means you wish to begin regular enrollment in summer and continue into autumn as a degree-seeking student. Failure to enter summer will cancel autumn admission and any registration.
4. Does the major I list on my application affect my chances of admission?
While we always recommend you list your intended major on your application so that we can provide you some information on the program, we do not use your intended major (or lack thereof) in the admissions process whatsoever. In fact, students are not required to select a major at the UW until the beginning of the junior year, so you have a lot of flexibility to explore majors.
Useful links:
5. As a Running Start student, am I considered a freshman or transfer applicant?
- If you are currently enrolled in Running Start in Washington State, apply as a freshman.
- If you will begin college course work after you graduate from high school, apply as a transfer student.
If you are not sure of your status, contact the Office of Admissions.
6. Does the UW award credit for Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) tests?
Yes. We encourage students to not only take rigorous courses as part of college prep curriculum, but also to take the exams at the end of the year. While the scores on AP or IB exams are not used in the admissions process, you can gain college credit at the UW depending on the score you receive. Details – including our credit tables – can be found at:
7. If admitted, may I defer my admission?
You may not defer your admission. If you are admitted for one quarter and are unable to attend the UW at that time, you must file a new application with the Office of Admissions by the application closing date of the quarter for which you wish to enroll.
Because admission criteria fluctuate from quarter to quarter, an offer of admission does not guarantee readmission for any other quarter. Just because you were previously admitted, please do not assume you will be admitted at a later date.
8. How can I speak with someone about admission to the UW?
All prospective freshmen are encouraged to attend our weekly freshman information sessions. The sessions consist of a one-hour presentation by an Admissions Counselor in conjunction with a UW student, followed by questions and discussion. They begin at 1:30 pm. No reservations are required. An optional 90-minute walking tour immediately follows the session.
Also, you can speak with an admissions counselor on the phone, in person or via email. More information can be found on the Contact Us web page. Please note that while we are always happy to speak with prospective students and parents, personal interviews are not a part of the application process.
