
370 Lighty Student Services Building PO Box 641067, Pullman, WA 99164, USA


Washington State University holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, which is a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards of quality and integrity regarding its academic programs, faculty qualifications, and student services.
Additionally, several of the university's colleges and specific programs receive specialized accreditation from professional organizations, assuring prospective students that those areas maintain rigorous educational criteria relevant to their fields. Such specialized accreditations are important for students aiming for careers that require licensure or certification.
Washington State University requires prospective students to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or equivalent secondary education, with a mandatory secondary school GPA and academic record. While submission of secondary school rank is advised, it is not obligatory. Admission to a college program is also required. Recommendations, competencies, and standardized admission test scores are recommended but not mandatory, except for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which is required for applicants whose first language is not English.
The university does not operate an open admission policy, and dual credit is not accepted; however, students can receive credit for prior college coursework and Advanced Placement (AP) exams.
Regarding standardized test scores, Washington State University considers SAT and ACT results. Although specific SAT score distributions are unavailable, the ACT data shows that 43.1% of enrolled students scored below 23, with 15.4% scoring below 36. The overall acceptance rate is relatively high at 85%, reflecting a broad admissions profile. The applicant pool is substantial, with over 26,000 applications submitted, and enrollment includes just over 4,200 students, indicating selectivity that nevertheless accommodates a significant number of students.
Washington State University requires prospective students to pay an application fee as part of the admissions process. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications and is a standard component of applying to the institution.
For those who may find the application fee a financial burden, the university provides options to request fee waivers. These waivers are designed to ensure that application costs do not prevent qualified candidates from applying. Eligible students typically include those demonstrating financial need or meeting criteria set forth by the admissions office.
Applicants interested in obtaining a fee waiver are encouraged to consult the university's admissions website or contact the admissions office directly to understand the requirements and the process for submitting a waiver request. This system facilitates greater access and inclusivity for prospective students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Washington State University offers ROTC programs through an on-campus branch unit, providing students with direct access to military training and leadership development opportunities while completing their academic studies. In addition to this, the university facilitates participation in ROTC programs at cooperating host institutions, enabling students to engage in military education and training through affiliated programs beyond the immediate campus environment.
Washington State University welcomes transfer students for the fall term and considers a range of prior academic experiences. The institution accepts college credits earned through CLEP subject and general exams as well as DANTES credit-by-examination programs. Applicants should be prepared for a moderately difficult admission process. Additionally, the university values recommendations as part of its transfer evaluation. Transfer credits earned from other institutions are recognized, facilitating a smoother transition for incoming students.
Washington State University offers a broad selection of study abroad options designed to accommodate diverse academic interests and schedules. Students can choose from programs ranging in length from short-term faculty-led trips to full semester or year-long exchanges. These opportunities aim to immerse students in different cultures while allowing them to continue their degree progress.
The university facilitates participation in programs across multiple continents, including Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Oceania. This geographic diversity supports various fields of study, including business, agriculture, engineering, and the humanities, among others.
Many programs are integrated with coursework offered by Washington State University, ensuring that credits earned abroad apply directly to students' academic plans. Specialized faculty-led trips provide curated experiences focused on particular disciplines or themes, often incorporating visits to relevant organizations, cultural sites, or research facilities.
Additionally, Washington State University maintains partnerships with numerous international universities, enabling exchange programs where students enroll directly in host institutions. These exchanges typically span a semester or academic year and foster deeper academic and cultural engagement.
Support services, including pre-departure orientations, risk management resources, and advising, are part of the study abroad infrastructure to help students prepare for and maximize their international experience.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
2%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
5%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall