PO Box 22520, Yakima, WA 98907-2520, USA


Yakima Valley College holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, ensuring it meets established standards of academic quality and institutional effectiveness. This regional accreditation is a significant consideration for prospective students, as it affirms the college's commitment to providing recognized and reliable educational programs. Furthermore, specific programs within the college may hold additional specialized accreditations, which can be crucial for students pursuing certain professional fields requiring certified credentials. Accreditation by a recognized agency like the Northwest Commission also facilitates credit transfer and eligibility for federal financial aid, factors that often influence student decisions when selecting a college.
Yakima Valley College operates under an open admission policy, allowing prospective students to enroll without the requirement of a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants are not required to provide standardized test scores such as the SAT, ACT, or TOEFL for admission. The institution does not mandate ownership or leasing of a computer as part of its admission criteria. While detailed information on secondary school academic records and recommendations is not provided, the college accepts transfer credits as well as credits earned through Advanced Placement exams. Dual credit enrollment for high school students is not offered.
The application fee at Yakima Valley College is set to cover the administrative costs of processing new student applications. Prospective students should expect to pay this fee upon submitting their application to the college.
Additionally, Yakima Valley College offers fee waivers for certain applicants who demonstrate financial need or qualify under specific criteria. These waivers aim to reduce barriers and encourage access to higher education by alleviating the initial costs of application.
Applicants interested in fee waivers must provide documentation or meet eligibility requirements established by the college. It is advisable to contact the admissions office directly to verify the process and submit any necessary paperwork to request a waiver.
Yakima Valley College does not currently offer its own Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs on campus. Students interested in pursuing ROTC training typically participate through affiliated institutions that provide access to military training and leadership development opportunities. Prospective students should consider nearby universities with established ROTC programs to fulfill this aspect of their education while attending Yakima Valley College for their academic coursework.
Yakima Valley College welcomes transfer students in all academic terms, including fall, winter, spring, and summer. The college maintains a minimally difficult entrance process, making it accessible for those seeking to continue their education from other institutions.
Prospective transfer students can apply credits earned from various standardized exams. The college accepts both CLEP General and CLEP Subject exam credits, as well as credits from the DANTES program, which may help streamline the transfer process and reduce time to degree completion.
In addition to transfer credits, Yakima Valley College considers personal recommendations as part of the admissions decision. This flexibility can be beneficial for students providing insight into their academic capabilities and character.
Yakima Valley College offers its students opportunities to participate in study abroad programs designed to enrich their educational experience and enhance global awareness. These programs typically include short-term faculty-led trips, where students travel internationally during academic breaks to engage in cultural immersion and specialized coursework. Such programs are structured to complement the college's curriculum, allowing students to earn academic credit while exploring new environments.
Additionally, the college encourages involvement in exchange programs with partner institutions abroad. These exchanges enable students to spend a semester or longer studying at a foreign university, providing a deeper experience of another culture and academic system. The variety of destinations and programs allows students to select options that best align with their academic goals and personal interests.
Students interested in study abroad are supported through advising services that assist in planning the logistics, securing financial aid, and understanding the requirements for participation. The college emphasizes accessibility and aims to facilitate programs that are affordable and inclusive for a broad range of students.
High school completions
High school diploma or equivalent is not requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoOpen admission policy
YesDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoStudy abroad
NoWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer