About

About Western Washington University

public masters universityhigh acceptance ratebusiness and education focustest optional admissions

Western Washington University is a public university in Bellingham, WA, known for its public masters university, high acceptance rate, and business and education focus. With an acceptance rate of 93%, Western is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 3,223 students each year. Western is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1130–1340, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Western offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $7,785 per year; the sticker price of $43,861 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Western Washington University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

93%
Overall Accept Rate
1235
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1130 – 1340 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Western Washington University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Application Strategy
Western Washington has a rolling admissions process, so submit your application as early as possible in the fall to maximize your chances of getting into your preferred major and securing housing priority.
Essay Strategy
WWU places a strong emphasis on fit within specific programs like the Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies or the College of Business and Economics, so make sure your essay speaks directly to why you want to study at Western Washington specifically and not just any Pacific Northwest school.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Western Washington University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$44k/yr$12.9k
30k-48k~$44k/yr$14.1k
48k-75k~$44k/yr$17.5k
75k-110k~$44k/yr$24.3k
110k+~$44k/yr$28.0k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

66%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$45k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
18:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
12,730
Undergrad Enrollment
Western Washington University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch