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Do I apply as a freshman or a transfer student?

You should apply as a freshman if any of the following statements describe you:

  • You plan to enter UW Tacoma immediately after graduating from high school.
  • You are in the Running Start program and you plan to enter UW Tacoma right after graduating (regardless of how many college credits you have earned or will earn).
  • You have never attended college since leaving high school (regardless of your age or whether you ever graduated).
I'm a Running Start student. Do I apply as a freshman or transfer?

Running Start students should use the freshman application. If you are admitted, college credit will be awarded for those college-level courses that have been successfully completed and meet UW transfer credit equivalencies. Running Start students still need to meet high school course requirements.

When is the deadline for freshman admission?

UW Tacoma admits freshman in the Autumn and Winter quarters. Review the application deadlines for more information.

How do I send my SAT or ACT test scores to UW Tacoma?

You are not required to submit your SAT or ACT scores, but you may do so if you wish. For scores to be considered official, students must arrange to have scores sent directly from the testing agency. Learn more about submitting your SAT or ACT scores.

What if I have taken the tests more than once (or taken both tests)?

When students submit scores from more than one sitting of the same test (for example, March and October SAT) or scores from the SAT and ACT, the highest combined score from a single test date will be used. The best mathematics score from one test date will not be combined with the best verbal score from another test date.

How are freshman applicants evaluated?

Applicants will be evaluated on a number of factors, including: grades, grade trends, rigor of curriculum, activities and accomplishments, educational goals, diverse life experiences, and first-generation status. The factors are not of equal weight and no single factor will be sufficient to confer admission.

The university will offer admission to applicants who will most benefit from and contribute to the university's educational community. In selecting the freshman class, the university does not make admission decisions solely on the basis of past academic accomplishments. The intention is to enroll a freshman class that, as a whole, represents the diversity of our community.

Does the major I list on my application affect my chances of admission?

No, we do not use your intended major (or lack thereof) in the admissions process. We ask the question only to be able to provide you information on the program you are interested in and academic guidance. You are not locked in to the major you select on your application and, in fact, are not required to select a major until the beginning of the junior year, so you have a lot of flexibility to explore majors.

Can I get credit for Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) scores?

Typically, a score of 3 or 4 (for AP courses) and 5 or higher (for IB courses) is required to earn credit.

Is world language required?

Two years of study in a single world language are required for admission. Learn more about how to meet the world language requirement on our Freshman Admissions Requirement page.

Can I still get financial aid if I apply after February 28?

UW Tacoma's Office of Student Financial Aid will strive to ensure that students receive aid commensurate with their need no matter when they apply. But the earlier you apply, the more aid options will be available.

What housing options are available on the UW Tacoma campus?

UW Tacoma offers student housing at the Court 17 Apartments. There are also a variety of housing options within a short distance from campus. More information on housing.

Can home-schooled students be considered for freshman admission?

Yes. An official home-school transcript is required for all home-schooled coursework. See the freshmen admission requirements and homeschool policy for details.

What if I can no longer attend for the quarter I was admitted?

Your admission to UW Tacoma is ONLY available for the quarter you were offered. Please see the Office of Admission about your options to attend in the future and decline your offer of admission.

I was not admitted, may I appeal the decision?

Students who wish to formally appeal admissions decisions must submit a written appeal letter to uwtinfo@uw.edu addressed to the Director of Admissions with the subject line "Admissions Appeal". Appeals should clearly define the basis of the appeal and a proposed resolution to the situation. Any relevant documentation should be enclosed with the appeal. The applicant may wish to submit updated high school or college transcripts, and/or updated test scores, as appropriate. Recommendation letters from counselors or teachers that know the applicant's academic and/or personal history are welcome, but not required. The appeal must be initiated by the applicant. Appeals will not be accepted from a parent, teacher, or other third party.

The Director of Admissions and the Admissions Review Committee will develop an appropriate investigational process depending on the circumstances surrounding the appeal and respond to the student filing the appeal. Once a decision has been made on a reconsideration, the decision will be sent via email.