How do I get a copy of your catalog/application/Viewbook?
Do you accept the Common Application? Does Washington University require a supplement?
Students may apply to Washington University using the Common Application and our short Pre-Application Data Sheet/Common Application Supplement. We encourage you to submit this Supplement (which does not require a separate essay) as soon as possible, but you may wait and submit it with the Common Application.
Do you accept the Universal College Application?
If you prefer, you may apply to Washington University using the Universal College Application in place of the Common Application. In either case, we encourage you to submit the Pre-Application Data Sheet/Common Application Supplement (which does not require a separate essay) as soon as possible, but you may wait and submit it with the Universal College Application. You should submit either the Universal College Application or the Common Application, but not both.
What does Washington University look for in prospective students?
Follow this link for information about how we make our admission decisions.
Why am I asked to choose one of the five schools on the Pre-Application Data Sheet/Common Application Supplement?
Washington University’s five undergraduate schools offer different curricula for different areas of academic interest. We encourage students to think about where their interests may lie at the time they apply, in terms of a major and a degree path to pursue, and to select one of the five schools as the primary point of interest. Keep in mind, students can change their minds and majors and take courses in other schools. For example, art students may study history, business students poetry, engineering students music, and so forth. But we ask you to indicate which of the five schools is your primary choice now so we can provide effective academic advising from the start to help you realize your goals.
Why do you ask me to rank order my undergraduate program choices?
If you give us more than one option, we will know more about the range of your interests in the University and can help you decide which path is best to start.
Are there different admission standards for the five schools?
While there are University admission standards common to all of the schools, we look for the right preparation for each curriculum. For example, students interested in engineering or pre-med should have completed course work in physics, chemistry, and math at least through the pre-calculus level. Students applying to the Colleges of Architecture and Art should demonstrate interest, skill, or background in art and design by highlighting relevant course work or extracurricular activity, or by submitting a portfolio.
Can home-schooled students apply for undergraduate admission to Washington University?
Of course! Washington University welcomes applications from home-schooled students. Please have your parent(s) complete the School Report in lieu of the Teacher Evaluation. We also encourage you to include a recommendation from an adult outside your home.
What weights are attached to grades, test scores, responses to the questions on our application, and so forth during the application process?
Admission decisions at Washington University are based on a combination of factors, including the high school transcript, test scores, personal essay, teacher evaluation, and extracurricular activities. We do not attach specific weights to individual components of the decision (a holistic view of each student is taken). However, a student’s academic record in high school is of critical importance in the admission decision because it is the best indicator that we have of how well a student will do in college.
Does Washington University take into account the rigor of an academic program, the rigor of a school’s grading system, or the difference between weighted and unweighted grade point averages or ranks in class?
The academic rigor, high school’s grading system, whether GPAs and/or ranks (if available) are weighted or unweighted are all taken into account when reviewing each student’s application. We evaluate each student’s academic record in the context of how well he or she took advantage of the opportunities that were available in his or her particular high school.
How do you weigh extracurricular activities?
Extracurricular activities are one of the factors considered when making admissions decisions at Washington University. We try to get a sense of what a student is passionate about beyond the classroom. We look to see what occupies the student’s time when he or she is not in class. Instead of a laundry list of activities, we look for those to which the student has shown commitment over time, the leadership roles that have developed, etc. We also understand that for many students, an after-school job or caring for a sibling or relative will be the primary extracurricular activity or commitment.
Does it help to have extra letters of recommendation sent on an applicant’s behalf?
Washington University requires information from the high school guidance counselor and one Teacher Evaluation from an academic teacher in high school with whom the student has taken a course. Extra letters are not required, but if you would like to submit additional letters, you are welcome to do so. For example, sometimes students choose to submit an extra letter of recommendation from a coach, an employer, or a member of the clergy because that person can provide unique insights that teachers may not include.
What standardized test scores does Washington University accept?
We accept the following standardized tests:
- SAT Test (includes a writing test)
- ACT Test (with the optional writing section)
- ACT Test (without the writing section)
- We do not require the writing test if you submit ACT Scores.
We do not have a preference for either the SAT or the ACT. Test results from any of your high school years are acceptable, though we encourage senior-year testing. Consideration will only be given to the highest individual scores, whenever they occurred.
Washington University considers your highest section scores across all SAT and/or ACT test dates that you submit. Final admissions decisions will be made using only your highest scores. Each time you submit scores, we will update your record with any new high scores. We strongly encourage you to submit your scores each time you take the SAT and/or ACT. Sending your scores each time you take the SAT and/or ACT can only benefit you by allowing us to consider you for all available enrollment related opportunities.
Do I need to take any of the SAT Subject Tests (SAT IIs) to apply to Washington University?
Washington University does not require SAT Subject Tests (formerly SAT II: College Board Achievement Tests). However, if you do take them and submit your scores, we will only consider them if they strengthen your application.
Are there required minimum GPA, class rank, or standardized test scores?
Although we do look for students who are strong academically, Washington University does not have any minimum requirements for GPA, class rank, or standardized test scores. A combination of academic and personal factors is considered in making the admission decision for each student.
Which college or school at Washington University will offer me the best chance of admission?
Washington University offers students admission based on their academic interests, high school transcript, test scores, personal essay, recommendations, and extracurricular activities. While overall admission percentages may vary somewhat from year to year, there is virtually no difference in the annual admission percentages (“admit rates”) by school at Washington University. We encourage you to apply to the school that offers courses and majors in which you are most interested at the time you apply.
Is it better to take an advanced class in high school and get a B, or take the regular course and get an A?
Of course, it is best to take the advanced class and get an A! If you get a B in the advanced class, that’s fine, too. Your main goal should be to challenge yourself in high school to the extent that your high school allows so that you’ll be better prepared for the academic challenges in college.
Does it matter whether an applicant attends a public or private secondary school?
No. We consider all aspects of each applicant’s high school situation—academic rigor, course offerings, grading system, GPAs, and/or class ranking systems.
Does Washington University rank high schools?
Washington University does not rank or compare high schools. Instead, we work to understand each student within the context of his or her high school.
Does Washington University limit the number of students admitted from a particular high school?
There are no limits or quotas for the number of students we admit from any high school, city, or state. While Washington University is a diverse community—for example, geographically, ethnically, and economically—our diversity is not contrived.
Can I apply for entrance in the spring semester?
Incoming freshmen may not apply for entrance in the spring semester. Only transfer applicants may apply for entrance in the spring semester.
Can an applicant who has been admitted defer enrollment?
An applicant who has been offered admission to Washington University may request a deferment as long as the applicant's reason for deferment is non-academic in nature.
Is a portfolio required for applicants to the College of Art?
A portfolio is required for applicants to the College of Art. There are several ways to submit your portfolio. Our representatives attend many National Portfolio Days held in major cities throughout the country, and we welcome the opportunity to review your portfolio at these events. In addition, you may set up a personal visit to Washington University and have your work reviewed in the College of Art. Finally, you may submit your digital or slide portfolio along with your application. If you would like to be considered for an academic scholarship, your portfolio must be submitted in either slide or digital format. If you choose to submit your portfolio with your application, follow these instructions: Submit a slide or digital portfolio, consisting of 12-15 pieces of recent work, which may include drawings, two- and three-dimensional pieces, or photographs.
- Digital Portfolio
Submit images in a simple, non-timed PowerPoint presentation. Also include all of the work in the presentation, in a separate folder, as jpegs saved at 72 dpi resolution and at a size of 600 pixels in the longest direction. Write your full name and address on the CD/DVD–do not use a stick-on label. Remember to include an accompanying inventory/contact sheet showing thumbnails of all work on the CD/DVD. The inventory sheet must include your name and address. If you prefer, you may include additional information such as title of work, medium, dimensions, and date completed.
- Slide Portfolio
Submit good quality 35mm slides in a plastic slide sleeve. Each slide must be labeled with your full name and address. The slide portfolio will be returned by May 1 only if you provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
Portfolios are strongly encouraged for the College of Architecture and should follow the guidelines for the College of Art. The portfolio may include drawings, paintings, design models, sculpture, ceramics, etc. Do not include CAD drawings or examples of drafting skills.