Freshman Requirements

Are You a Freshman?

WSU Tri-Cities recognizes the scale of the novel coronavirus, and we understand that it is a quickly evolving situation. Our highest priority is for the health and well-being of everyone affected by COVID-19 and WSU Tri-Cities has announced several precautionary measures to respond to COVID-19.

We understand that high schools have been closed and SAT/ACT test dates have been cancelled. Please know that we will work with you to consider your application without test scores. We also accept unofficial transcripts, so if you aren’t able to request transcripts from your high school, let us know so we can help you explore options.

Admission Counselors are still available by virtual appointments, email, and text messaging. We understand the growing levels of uncertainty right now and are here to help you make decisions about this next step in your life.

We are still accepting applications for fall 2020 and will also process change of campus forms through the summer.

Requirements

You’re considered a freshman for admission purposes if you’re applying to WSU for the academic year immediately after graduating from high school. This includes high school seniors who participated in Running Start or College in the High School.

You’re also considered a freshman if you haven’t attended college since high school graduation. Your age also affects how you apply, so if you’re 25 or older, check out the adult application process below.

The state of Washington maintains the College Academic Distribution Requirements (CADRs) that all first-year students have to meet to qualify for college admission. More information on CADRs is available from the Washington Student Achievement Council.

If you’re in the top 10 percent of your class or have a 3.5+ unweighted GPA, check out WSU’s assured admission program. We have a spot waiting for you.

1. FILL OUT THE FRESHMAN APPLICATION

The priority application date for fall semester is January 31 and November 15 for spring semester, but we accept applications throughout the year. To be considered for merit-based awards you must apply by the priority application date.

• WSU freshman admission application.

2. APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID

To make sure you receive the highest possible amount of financial help, file the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid for HB 1079 students only) by January 31.

3. PROVIDE YOUR UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS, TEST SCORES, RESUMES, AND MORE.

Your next step depends on your education background. We will still consider your application if you weren’t able to take the SAT/ACT because your test dates were cancelled. Connect with an admissions counselor to discuss your options.

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE

Whether you’re applying for the semester directly after your high school graduation or have been out of high school for awhile, here’s what you need to send in:

• Submit your unofficial transcripts to WSU. If you have college credit through Running Start or a similar program, ask the college to send those transcripts to WSU as well.
• If you have taken the SAT or ACT, have your official scores sent to WSU. (ACT Code: 4482 | SAT Code: 4705)

STUDENTS OVER 25

You’re considered an adult student for admission purposes if you’ll be 25 years or older on your first day of classes at WSU, and have less than a year’s worth of college work to transfer.If you’ve completed a full year of transferable college work, you should follow the transfer admission requirements. If you’re considered a freshmen, please include the following materials:

• Have your high school send us an official transcript with graduation date. If you have a GED, have the testing agency send us your official GED transcript instead.
• If you have completed some college courses, also have the college (or colleges) you attended send us your official transcripts.

In addition to your application and transcripts, please also send:

1. A resume covering the last five years; and.
2. A brief essay (no more than one page) addressing why you want to attend WSU.

HOMESCHOOL GRADUATE

Did you complete some or all of your schooling at home? You’re welcome at WSU and your requirements are nearly the same as other freshmen!

• If you have taken the SAT or ACT, have your official scores sent to WSU. (ACT Code: 4482 | SAT Code: 4705), have your official scores from the SAT or the ACT.
• If you attended any other high schools, then submit unofficial transcripts.
• If you have attended any colleges, submit your official transcript.

And send one of the following:

• An academic resume that provides documentation of all subjects studied and textbooks used, including the signature of the parent or guardian; responsible for the student’s curriculum
• Or an official transcript from the GED exam.