We know you have questions
We’ve tried to answer a few of the more frequently asked questions here.
If you still have questions about WashU, the application process, financial aid, or anything else, please contact us! We are here to help you.
Application process
We accept both the Coalition Application or the Common Application, and we have no preference for either one. Students should only submit one or the other, not both. Once you have started with one application, you should complete that application and not switch between the two. Both applications become available on August 1.
Undocumented students receive the same admissions review as all applicants to our undergraduate programs. Students may choose to apply through the Common Application or the Coalition Application, which have optional questions regarding undocumented/DACA status. Applicants who are currently in the DACA Status (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) will need to select “Other (Non-US)” for citizenship status. Then answer “No” for “Do you currently hold a valid U.S. Visa?”
Please see the Center for Diversity & Inclusion website for more information regarding Undocumented Students (DACA) at WashU.
No. As part of our commitment to ensure all applicants, regardless of financial circumstance, ability to travel or familiarity with the college admissions process, receive equal consideration in our review and selection of applicants, WashU will no longer consider demonstrated interest (such as visiting campus, attending an event, or emailing with a member of the admissions staff) as a factor in making admission decisions or in the admission decision process. In doing so, we can create and implement a truly equitable admissions process and support our goal to build a community of talented and diverse young people.
Majors and Programs
Our five undergraduate colleges (often referred to as divisions) offer different curricula for various 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. We encourage academic exploration and students can take courses in other schools/fields. 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 achieve your goals.
Overall admission percentages within our divisions may vary from year to year. We look for the same qualities in our applicants across all academic divisions at WashU, and we encourage you to apply to the school that offers courses and majors in which you are most interested at the time you apply.
Applicants:
If you want to change your division on your application before decisions are released, simply send your request in writing to admissions@wustl.edu. Include your full name as it appears on your application for admission and the name of the high school you attend. If you have questions, call our office at 800-638-0700 or 314-935-6000, and ask to speak with an Admissions Officer or your Admissions Service Coordinator.
Enrolling students:
Enrolling first-year students are required to wait one full semester before requesting a change to another undergraduate college at WashU. Transferring to another division is possible, but not guaranteed.
Please keep in mind that:
- You will be able to take courses in all of the colleges as you explore your academic interests
- You can work with your academic advisor to add a major or minor in another WashU college
- You have until the latter half of your sophomore year to decide on your academic major, and your advisors will provide support if you change your mind after that!
Enrolling transfer students are also required to wait one full semester before requesting a change to another undergraduate division at WashU.
No, WashU does not currently offer an accelerated program for entry to medical school. Rather, WashU offers a comprehensive pre-health sciences curriculum that advises and educates all students interested in a career in the health sciences as they prepare for medical school. WashU’s PreHealth website has detailed information about how we provide comprehensive advising and support to students on their path toward a career in the health professions.
First-Year Academic Scholarships
Yes. If you apply under our binding Early Decision I or II plan, you may still be considered for any merit-based academic scholarship matching your academic and extracurricular achievements. Scholarships are not awarded until spring.
If your scholarship covers your financial needs, you will no longer require need-based financial aid. However, Student Financial Services will work with your family’s individual circumstances to ensure that your WashU education is affordable for you and your family.
Scholarships are renewable for four years as long as you are making satisfactory progress toward a bachelor’s degree. This is generally defined as maintaining a 2.0 GPA and earning enough credits to graduate on time.
Yes, if you choose to study abroad during the academic year through a WashU-sponsored program.