TIPS for
OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS (360) 650-3440 | admit@wwu.edu
STANDING OUT in the application process
Western’s comprehensive review process means we take into account your entire application package when we make an admissions decision. Follow these tips for making your whole academic history, as well as your application to Western, stand out among the rest. ACADEMIC ADVICE x Challenge yourself in the classroom. We like to see students take initiative and challenge themselves academically through the end of their senior year. Advanced Placement (AP), Honors, Running Start, College-in-the-High School and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes are great options for many students. At Western, we believe rigorous coursework provides students with better skills for college classes and we definitely take your schedule’s level of difficulty into account while evaluating your grades. Resist the temptation to take it easy your senior year—continue to take a full schedule, including math and science. x Help us understand your transcript. Take a look at your transcript before you apply or have a friend check it out. Does anything catch your eye, such as a particularly tough quarter or a low grade? Chances are if something looks off to you, we’ll notice it, too. Addressing any hardships, academic or personal, in a personal statement can clarify questions as they come up in your application review. x Don’t wait to take standardized tests—or to send the scores. Test scores aren't everything, but they do factor into our review of your overall academic potential. Be sure you have your SAT or ACT scores submitted before the application deadline. You can send them electronically or from your high school when your transcript is sent. GENERAL ADVICE x Think big, but pay attention to details. Always keep the big picture and overall presentation of your application in mind, but attention to details (such as proofreading and deadlines) is also important. Remember that your application for admission is also your application for scholarships awarded through our office, so put your best foot forward and make a favorable first impression. Ask a teacher, parent, or friend to read through your entire application and essay for errors or to help you strengthen your message. x Request to have your transcript(s) sent to us. Some colleges and universities don’t require your transcript with your application. At Western, your application won’t be ready for review until we have an official transcript from your high school and/or colleges where you’ve earned credit. x Create a CollegeNet/ApplyWeb account. Your CollegeNet/ApplyWeb account gives you access to multiple online applications. Once you’ve entered information in one application, most of it can be added automatically to other CollegeNet applications. x Be in charge. This is your education, so don’t let your parents do all the work! Do keep them involved, though, and communicate regularly with them about your application checklist. x Find us on Facebook! Connect with us online at www.facebook.com/wwu.admissions. Get up-to-date reminders on events we’re hosting, when to submit materials and what’s new on campus. The bottom line is that you are much more in the driver’s seat when it comes to college admissions than you may believe. We’re looking for curious, resilient, hard-working young scholars focused on building a successful life and career for themselves—and a strong future for their families and community. The admission process is competitive, but now you are equipped with a better understanding of what Western values in applicants!