Pullman's student community includes ~56% female and 2.2% international students. The main campus houses over 350 registered student organizations and engages students in ~66,000 annual community service hours.
With admission intake beginning in summer (April) and fall (July), Washington State University (WSU) is a prestigious university in Pullman, Washington, and many aspire to gain admission to one of its campuses. It is well-known among thebest universities in the US for its strong commitment to academic excellence and global engagement. Established in 1890, Washington State University offers a diverse range of over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs, attracting students from more than 90 countries.
With a welcoming environment and extensive resources, WSU aims to empower students who plan to study in the US to achieve their academic and professional goals through world-class education and research. The following are the key facts & statistics regarding Washington State University admissions:
Before discussing the specifics of each program, it's essential to understand the key process for Washington State University admission to ensure timely application submissions.
Washington State University Admission Dates
Washington State University provides a straightforward admission process with clear deadlines for prospective students.
Undergraduate applicants should make a note of the priority deadlines: November 29, 2024, for spring 2025 enrollment and July 18, 2025, for fall 2025 enrollment.
Washington State University's Summer Session offers flexible 3-12 week courses across all WSU campuses and online, allowing students to accelerate their studies or reduce their fall workload.
Students can enrol at any campus without approval while maintaining full academic excellence.
Refer to the table below to check the key summer intake deadlines based on your intended program.
Program
Application Type
Application Deadline (2025)
Undergraduate Summer Session
Undergraduate Admission
Early Summer Session: April 24, 2025 (closed)
Late Six-Week Session: June 5, 2025 (closed)
General Summer Undergraduate Application Open (no specific deadline)
Graduate Summer Session
Graduate Admission
Summer 2025 Graduate Application Deadline: May 30, 2025 (regular) (closed)
Online MBA Summer 1 Session
Graduate Admission (MBA)
Application Deadline: March 24, 2025 (closed)
Online MBA Summer 2 Session
Graduate Admission (MBA)
Application Deadline: May 5, 2025 (closed)
Now, let's explore the deadlines at Washington State University for the fall intake.
Fall intake
Washington State University's fall semester is the main intake period, accepting the most new students annually. The priority application deadline is July, with classes beginning mid to late August.
Applying early not only secures your spot in a competitive intake but also maximizes scholarship opportunities and allows ample time for visa and relocation arrangements.
Refer to the table below to check the key fall intake deadlines based on your intended program.
Program
Application Type
Application Deadline (2025)
Undergraduate
First-Year Undergraduate
Priority Application Deadline: March 31, 2025 (Closed)
General Application Deadline: July 18, 2025
Transfer Undergraduate
Transfer Application Deadline: August 7, 2025 (transcripts due by August 1, 2025)
Graduate
Graduate Degree-Seeking
Priority Application Deadline: July 1, 2025
Regular Deadline: Varies by program but generally August 1, 2025
Online MBA
Graduate (MBA)
Fall 1 Application Deadline: July 14, 2025
Fall 1 Start Date: August 18, 2025
Professional Programs
Various Professional Admissions
Application deadlines vary.
Now that you're familiar with the admission dates, let's take a closer look at the admissions process at Washington State University.
Washington State University Admission Process
Washington State University is a public land‑grant research institution with over 30,000 students across its one global campus in Pullman and five physical campuses in Vancouver, Spokane, Tri‑Cities, Everett, and Online/global.
The university offers more than 200 fieldsof study and maintains a test‑optional policy; SAT/ACT scores are not required for undergraduate admission. Here's a step-by-step guide based exclusively on official WSU sources:
1. Select Your Campus & Applicant Type
Decide whether you're applying as a first‑year, transfer, graduate, or international student and choose your campus (Pullman, Vancouver, Tri‑Cities, Spokane, Everett, or Global).
2. Meet Academic Requirements
First‑year: High-school diploma or GED, complete CADRs (e.g. 4 4-year English, 3 years of math, including Algebra II).
Transfer: College-level credits are required; WSU accepts ~80% of incoming students with prior credit.
International: English proficiency & financial documentation required.
3. Complete Application Online
Fill out the WSU portal or Common App for undergrad; submit a Graduate School application for graduate programs.
Priority deadlines: undergraduate courses: Mar 31 (fall), Nov 15 (spring) and Jan 31 for scholarships. The graduate course deadline is around January 10 for fall review.
4. Submit Documents & Fees
Upload academic transcripts (high school, college, GED), test scores (optional), résumé, SOP, and recommendation letters as required.
Pay a non-refundable application fee ($70/ INR 6K).
5. File for Financial Aid & Scholarships
Undergraduates: FAFSA or WASFA by Jan 31 for priority funding.
Graduates: Follow program-specific deadlines (usually early Jan).
6. Await Decision & Enrol
Admissions are based on GPA, coursework, essays, and recommendations; SAT/ACT are optional.
After acceptance, complete enrollment steps through your myWSU portal.
Does Washington State University align with your goals? Schedule a free one-on-one session to explore how WSU can support your academic and career aspirations.
Now, let's discuss the admission requirements for Washington State University in detail.
Washington State University MBA Admissions
MBA admissions are highly competitive, with top programs typically accepting 20-40% of applicants. Washington State University's Carson College of Business generally seeks candidates with 4-6 years of work experience.
Class sizes typically range from 50 to 200 students to ensure personalized attention and effective learning environments.
Below is a detailed overview of the admission process for the MBA courses and key deadlines.
Rolling deadlines; recommended to consult enrollment advisor; specific term starts August 18, 2025
Executive MBA
Fall 3 - 2025
Rolling deadlines; term starts September 29, 2025
Online MBA
Spring 1 - 2026
Rolling deadlines; term starts November 3, 2025
Online MBA
Spring 2 - 2026
Rolling deadlines; term starts January 12, 2026
Online MBA
Spring 3 - 2026
Rolling deadlines; term starts February 23, 2026
Online MBA
Spring 4 - 2026
Rolling deadlines; term starts March 30, 2026
Executive MBA Online
Various Terms
Rolling application deadlines; consult the enrollment advisor for details
Note: Deadlines are subject to change; confirm with the university admissions office before applying. For program-specific queries, visit the Washington State University or contact admissions directly.
Now, let’s look at admission requirements for MBA programs at Washington State University.
MBA Admission Requirement
MBA admission requirements focus on identifying candidates with strong academic backgrounds, professional experience, and leadership potential.
At Washington State University, applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, typically with a 3.0 GPA or higher for competitive consideration.
Here's a detailed table that breaks down the exact requirements for the MBA application:
Requirement
Details
Bachelor's Degree
Must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited four-year institution or international equivalent at time of application; professional degrees may be considered.
Transcripts
Official transcripts required from all institutions attended
All official transcripts must be received before the first course begins
Next, let’s discuss scholarships for MBA courses available at Washington State University.
MBA Scholarships
Washington State University offers comprehensive financial support for MBA students through over 700 scholarship opportunities via its General Scholarship Application. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership, and financial need, ranging from tuition waivers to departmental-specific awards.
Below is a breakdown of MBA scholarships, their requirements, and what each can offer you.
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Benefit
WSU General Scholarship
Open to all WSU students who complete the General Scholarship Application
Must have academic merit, major, and financial need
Over 700 scholarships available; amounts vary by award (Up to $5000/ INR 4.2L)
Carson College of Business Scholarships
Business students, including MBA candidates
Based on donor criteria such as GPA, major, hometown, career interests, and financial need
Scholarships starting at $2,000 (INR 1.7L)
Students may receive multiple awards
International Merit Award
Degree-seeking international undergraduate students on F-1 visas at WSU Pullman campus
GPA must be 3.6+ or notable service to the community.
Tuition waiver worth $4,000 (INR 3.4L), renewable
For those aiming for a Master of Science, here's what you need to know about the MS admissions process at Washington State University and its unique opportunities.
Washington State University MS Admissions
Washington State University offers over 140 graduate programs where students collaborate with renowned faculty on cutting-edge research. The MS admissions process uses a holistic review of academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and required test scores.
The table below lists application deadlines for WSU's MS programs.
Program
Application Dates & Deadlines
General MS Programs
Priority application deadline for Fall admission: January 10, 2025 (Closed)
Priority application deadline for Spring admission: July 1, 2025 (space available)
Criminal Justice and Criminology
Fall admission deadline: January 10, 2025 (Closed)
Spring admission deadline: July 1. 2025 (space available, spring matriculation not encouraged)
Health Science Graduate Programs
Refer to individual program pages; health science uses the Common Application System (CAS) with varied deadlines
Crop and Soil Sciences
Fall term priority deadline: January 10, 2025 (Closed)
Spring term priority deadline: July 1, 2025
Graduate School Overall Deadlines
Fall 2024: October 4, 2024 (Closed)
Spring 2025: March 7, 2025 (Closed)
Summer 2025: May 30, 2025 (Closed)
Before applying to MS programs, let’s understand the key academic and application requirements
MS Admission Requirement
Washington State University's Master of Science programs have rigorous admission standards reflecting academic excellence. While GRE scores are optional for many departments, some programs may require them. International students must demonstrate English proficiency with minimum scores: TOEFL: 540 (paper) /75 (internet), IELTS: 6.5, or Duolingo: 105.
The table below demonstrates the MS admission requirements for Washington State University and some competitive exam required to study in the USA:
Requirement
Details
Bachelor's Degree
Must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent
Applied baccalaureate degrees from WSU community colleges are accepted with possible prerequisites.
GPA
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is generally required
Some programs prefer 3.5 or higher
A graduate GPA 3.3 for the last 12 semester hours may be considered.
Transcripts
Unofficial transcripts acceptable for application review
Official transcripts required upon admission and must be submitted within the first semester.
Letters of Recommendation
Usually, three letters required
Some programs specify at least one recommender with a PhD
Letters must address academic qualifications and potential.
Writing Sample
Selected programs require a writing sample demonstrating critical thinking and analytical skills, at least 5 pages for MA applicants and 10 for PhD applicants.
GRE/GMAT Scores
Some programs, such as Business Administration and Management Information Systems, require GRE/GMAT scores, but many do not.
English Proficiency
Required for international students who do not meet the exemption criteria.
Applicants must submit a statement outlining academic and professional goals and reasons for pursuing the program.
Application Fees
Non-refundable application fee required
A fee waiver is possible for McNair Scholars.
Additional Program Requirements
Some programs may require interviews, prerequisite courses, or supplemental materials.
Applicants should review program-specific pages.
Next, some key scholarships are available to help reduce your tuition costs at WSU.
MS Scholarships
Washington State University provides extensive scholarship support for Master of Science students, distributing approximately $207 million annually in scholarships and financial aid to over 17,000 students. This includes numerous donor-funded scholarships and fellowships specifically designed for graduate students.
Below is a detailed breakdown of key MS scholarships, eligibility criteria, and award benefits.
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Benefit
Richard R. and Constance M. Albrecht Scholarship
Requires nomination from the student's department
Typically awarded to graduate students within specific disciplines
Financial support covering tuition and other educational expenses.
Arnold and Julia Greenwell Memorial Scholarship
Requires nomination within Social Sciences and Humanities disciplines
Scholarship funds to support graduate academic pursuits within specified fields
Anne and Russ Fuller Fellowship
Requires nomination for interdisciplinary research or scholarship projects
Financial support for interdisciplinary graduate research, including tuition and stipend
Beyond the MBA and MS programs, Washington State University offers a variety of other postgraduate courses. Let's explore the admission requirements for these programs.
Washington State University: Other PG Course Admission
WSU's graduate programs, including the Master of Science in Statistics and PhD in Statistical Science, combine effective coursework with interdisciplinary research opportunities. The university ranks 84th nationally in research expenditures with $378 million in FY 2023, supporting a large academic research community.
Below are key deadlines for popular PG courses.
Programs
Application Dates & Deadlines
Graduate Certificate Programs
Priority application deadlines are generally January 10, 2025 (Closed) for Fall and July 1 for Spring semesters.
Non-Degree and Certificate Programs
Open enrollment with limitations
Applications vary by term
Deadlines follow graduate school schedules.
Master's and Doctoral Programs in Various Disciplines (e.g., Agriculture, Engineering, Business)
Priority application deadline January 10, 2025 (Closed) for Fall and July 1, 2025 for Spring
Applications accepted after deadlines for spaces available.
Special Programs like Health Science Graduate Programs using the Common Application System (CAS)
Use CAS with varied deadlines depending on specific program requirements
Priority deadlines align with the Graduate School's dates.
With the details covered, here's what you'll need for PG admission.
Other PG Course Admission Requirements
Washington State University offers diverse postgraduate programs with specific admission requirements for qualified candidates.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA. International students must demonstrate English proficiency: TOEFL (iBT) 75, IELTS band score 6.5, or Duolingo 105.
The table below demonstrates the criteria in detail:
Requirement
Details
Bachelor's Degree
Must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or recognized international equivalent
Applied baccalaureate degrees from Washington State community colleges are accepted with possible prerequisites depending on the program.
GPA
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale typically required
Individual programs may set higher standards depending on competitiveness.
Transcripts
Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial application review
Official transcripts must be submitted upon admission and within the first semester of enrollment.
Letters of Recommendation
Usually requires three confidential letters of recommendation submitted through the online application system.
Letters should address academic readiness, leadership, and related skills.
Statement of Purpose
Applicants must provide a personal statement outlining research interests, career goals, and reasons for selecting the program.
The typical length is about 500 words.
Test Scores
GRE or GMAT scores are optional for most programs, but may be required by some departments.
Applicants should check specific program requirements.
English Language Proficiency (International Applicants)
Minimum scores:
TOEFL iBT: 75
IELTS: 6.5
MELAB: 82
Additional Program Requirements
Some programs, such as mechanical engineering, may require supplemental materials such as writing samples, portfolios, or interviews.
Some programs may require pre-requisite coursework, particularly those outside the applicant's bachelor's area.
Let's now take a look at some key scholarships available at Washington State University.
Scholarships for Other PG Courses
Washington State University provides postgraduate scholarships beyond standard fellowships to support diverse academic disciplines and recognize research excellence.
Donor-funded awards like the Richard R. and Constance M. Albrecht Scholarship and the Anne and Russ Fuller Fellowship for Interdisciplinary Research require departmental nomination and reward outstanding doctoral candidates with substantial academic achievements.
The table below shows scholarships available for Other PG Courses:
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Benefit
Graduate School Dissertation Year Fellowship
Graduate students in the final year of dissertation research
Nomination required
Provides financial support during dissertation year (currently $3,291/ INR 2.8L)
Creighton Graduate Fellowship
Graduate students primarily in health fields
Approximately $1,000 (INR 85.5K) per award, multiple awards available
Anne and Russ Fuller Fellowship for Interdisciplinary Research/Scholarship
Graduate students involved in interdisciplinary research
Department nomination required
Fellowship amount varies
Outside Scholarships
Scholarships awarded by donors unaffiliated with WSU
Students must report and notify WSU if awarded
Varies; may cover tuition, fees, or other educational costs
If you're considering a bachelor's degree at Washington State University, the following section discusses the admission process for undergraduate courses.
Washington State University Bachelor's Admissions
Washington State University offers a broad range of bachelor's degree programs. It maintains a balanced admissions approach with an acceptance rate of 85%, indicating a moderately selective but accessible process for prospective students.
Before exploring the admission requirements, let's look at the advantages of studying at Washington State University.
Advantages of Getting Into Washington State University for a Bachelor's
Washington State University offers strong advantages for bachelor's degree students through its solid academic reputation, diverse programs, and commitment to student success. Washington State University ranks #189 in U.S. News & World Report and #466 globally in QS World University Rankings 2025.
Here are the key advantages:
Academic Excellence: Over 200 undergraduate programs across 11 colleges with Carnegie "highest research activity" classification, offering undergraduates hands-on research opportunities with expert faculty.
Flexibility:Six campus locations (Pullman, Spokane, Vancouver, Tri-Cities, Everett) plus highly ranked online programs through WSU Global Campus accommodate diverse learning preferences.
Washington State University’s rankings: Ranked #189 nationally by U.S. News & World Report and #401-500 globally by THE Rankings, demonstrating competitive academic standing.
Support & Affordability: Comprehensive student services including academic advising, tutoring, and career guidance, plus over 700 scholarship programs making education accessible.
Career Readiness: Strong alumni network, industry partnerships, and state-of-the-art facilities with experiential learning prepare students for immediate workforce success.
After learning about the advantages, let's check the admission requirements for a bachelor's degree.
What are the Admission Requirements?
Washington State University offers an accessible and test-free admission process to accommodate a wide range of applicants, including first-year, transfer, graduate, and international students. For undergraduate admissions, WSU does not require SAT or ACT scores, placing greater emphasis on a high school diploma or GED completion.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the key requirements for Washington State University admission that also helps in avoiding rejections for student visas:
Requirement
Details
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Must have completed at least 12 years of schooling, culminating in a high school diploma or GED
Academic Preparation
Preparation in humanities, mathematics, basic sciences, and social sciences is expected as part of the secondary education curriculum.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
A minimum GPA of 2.70 on a 4.00 scale required for international first-year students.
Competitive GPA expectations for domestic students are generally higher.
Standardized Tests
WSU admission is test-free for first-year students
SAT or ACT scores are not required and will not be used in admission decisions.
College Academic Distribution Requirements (CADRs)
Completion of required high school courses as defined by the state of Washington to meet CADRs, including core academic subjects.
Application Fee
A $70 (INR 6k) non-refundable application fee will be submitted along with the application.
English Proficiency
For international applicants, proficiency can be demonstrated via accepted language exams.
Transcripts
Upload unofficial high school transcripts with the application
Official transcripts are required prior to enrollment and should be sent directly from the school.
Application Submission
Apply through WSU Application, Common App, or Cialfo if eligible.
Submit all required documents and meet priority dates for scholarship consideration.
Residency Status
Applicants must provide residency information
Domestic and international status affect the application process and requirements.
Additional Materials
Homeschooled students must submit an academic resume including all subjects studied.
Applicants age 25+ might have to submit a resume and essay outlining their experience.
Next, here are some of the major scholarships you can apply for at WSU.
Scholarships at Washington State University
Washington State University awards approximately $170 million annually through over 700 scholarship programs. About 69% of WSU students receive non-repayable grants or scholarships, with an average award of $11,881 (INR 10.1L), significantly reducing education costs.
Below is a list of key scholarships, eligibility criteria, and benefits.
Name
Eligibility
Benefit
International Merit Award
Degree-seeking undergraduates on an F-1 visa at the Pullman campus.
Minimum 3.6 GPA with 12 WSU credits or notable service/achievement in the last 2 years
Tuition waiver worth $4,000 (INR 3.4L)
Renewable for three additional years (freshman) or 2 years (transfer)
International Academic Award
International students admitted by International Programs with a cumulative GPA of 3.6+ (Level 1) or 3.0–3.59 (Level 2)
Tuition waivers: $4,000 (INR 3.4L)
(Level 1) or $2,000 (INR 1.7L) (Level 2)
Renewable with 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment
Alumni Association Scholarships
New and continuing students, variable eligibility based on academic merit, leadership, and financial need
Varies per scholarship, based on donor criteria
Once you gain admission, knowing about the extensive support services available to students is essential. Here's a closer look at how Washington State University ensures all students succeed during their stay.
Washington State University Student Support Services
Washington State University provides comprehensive Student Support Services to its 21,455 undergraduate and 4,230 graduate students across multiple campuses. Services include academic advising, tutoring centers, mental health counselling, and emergency financial aid to support student achievement and well-being.
Let's discuss what WSU offers in terms of student support services:
Academic Advising: WSU offers personalized advising to help over 21,000 undergrads plan their academic paths and stay on track for graduation.
Tutoring & Academic Support: Free tutoring for both online and on-campus helps students excel in coursework and build essential skills.
Mental Health & Wellbeing:Comprehensive counseling, wellness programs, and crisis support promote student mental health and resilience.
Career Development:Free career advising prepares students for employment through exploration, resume help, and employer connections.
Financial Aid: Nearly 69% of students receive non-repayable aid, averaging $11,881 (INR 10.1 L). Emergency funding and fully-funded scholarships are also available.
Technology Support: 24/7 tech assistance ensures access to digital learning tools and support.
Library Access: Global Campus students can access 3.5M+ books, journals, databases, and librarian support.
Military and Veteran Services:Specialized advising and benefits support active duty and veteran students with credit transfers and financial aid.
Disability Services:The Access Center ensures equitable education through personalized accommodations in the US.
Student Government Aid:ASWSU Global offers reimbursements for child care, tech, travel, and more to support student life.
FAQs
What are the minimum GPA and test score requirements for admission to WSU?
WSU generally requires a 2.70 GPA for WA residents and 3.10 for non-residents. Test scores are optional; competitive applicants often have SAT 1020–1220 or ACT 20–27. Some programs may require higher scores.
When are the application deadlines for different admission intakes in 2025?
WSU's application deadlines are Nov 30 for Early Action and Jan 31 (priority) or May 1 (final) for Fall. Spring applications are due Oct 1, and Summer by Mar 1. International applicants should apply early to allow time for visa processing.
Does WSU require standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) for admission?
WSU is test-optional for most undergrad programs. Some competitive majors/scholarships may still require the SAT/ACT. International applicants may need TOEFL/IELTS. Students who don't submit test scores will be evaluated more heavily on GPA
What should I include in my personal statement or essay?
Students must submit a 250–650 word essay highlighting academic goals, leadership, or personal growth. Be specific and authentic; avoid repeating your resume. Use concrete examples and stories that demonstrate your character, resilience, and potential contributions to the WSU community.
How does WSU evaluate transfer students, and what credits will transfer?
Transfer students need a 2.0 GPA and 27+ semester credits. WSU accepts credits from regionally accredited schools; WA community college transfers are streamlined via DTA. The Transfer Credit Evaluation tool allows students to preview how their credits will transfer before applying.
What financial aid options are available, and how do I apply?
WSU offers grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study. File the FAFSA by January 15. Many scholarships are automatic; others need separate applications (Dec–Mar deadlines). Over 80% of WSU students receive some form of financial aid, with the average aid package covering a significant portion of educational costs.
Are there different Washington State University admission requirements for specific majors or colleges?
Selective majors like Business, Engineering, Nursing, and Vet Med may require higher GPAs, prerequisites, or portfolios. Check individual program pages. Some programs have direct admission from high school, while others require application after completing prerequisite courses at WSU.
Can I apply for admission if I'm homeschooled or have a GED?
WSU accepts homeschooled and GED students. Submit detailed transcripts or test scores (SAT/ACT) to demonstrate readiness. Both groups are evaluated using the same holistic review process as traditional high school graduates. Additional documentation of coursework completion and academic preparation may be required for thorough evaluation.
What is WSU's policy on Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and dual enrollment credits?
WSU awards credit for AP scores of 3+, IB scores of 4+ (HL), and most dual enrollment credits. These may fulfill gen-ed or major requirements. Students can potentially enter WSU with significant credit hours, allowing for earlier graduation or more flexibility in course selection.
How competitive is Washington State University admission, and what can I do to strengthen my application?
With an 85% acceptance rate, WSU is moderately selective. Strong academics, leadership, service, and a thoughtful personal statement can increase your chances. Demonstrating genuine interest in WSU through campus visits, information sessions, and connecting with current students or alumni can also enhance your application.
What support services are available for first-generation college students or underrepresented minorities?
WSU supports students via TRIO, Multicultural Student Services, Access Center, Civic Engagement, and Academic Success programs, including tutoring and career services. These comprehensive support systems provide mentoring, financial literacy training, and specialized programming to ensure student success from enrollment through graduation.
All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.