Overview
Central Washington University is an open admission public four-year institution in Ellensburg, Washington. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Central Washington University uses a rolling admissions process, so you can apply anytime after September 1st for the following fall quarter. Submit your application through the Washington State Common App along with your official high school transcripts and any college transcripts if you've taken dual enrollment courses. No essays or letters of recommendation are required for general admission.
Apply for housing by February 1st if you want to live on campus your first year. The university requires all freshmen under 20 who live within a 30-mile radius to live in residence halls unless they live with family. Housing assignments come out in July, so submit your application and deposit early for better options.
Some programs require separate applications or have additional requirements beyond general admission. The engineering technology programs, construction management, and nursing all have competitive admissions processes with earlier deadlines and prerequisite coursework requirements. Check program-specific requirements on the department websites since these change annually.
Central operates on a quarter system rather than semesters, so your academic year starts in late September and ends in mid-June. Register for Summer START, the mandatory orientation program that runs throughout the summer. You'll register for fall classes during your orientation session, and earlier sessions give you better class selection.
The Ellensburg campus sits in a small town surrounded by mountains, so bring warm clothes for winter and prepare for limited entertainment options beyond outdoor activities. Most students need cars to get around town and access grocery stores, though campus shuttles run to major shopping areas.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $14,715/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $9,192
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $26,771
- Students Receiving Aid
- 31%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 49.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $61,580/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 69.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for Central Washington University?
Central Washington University has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of January 15 for fall quarter and October 1 for winter quarter. Applications are accepted until classes reach capacity.
Does Central Washington University require SAT or ACT scores?
Central Washington University is test-optional for most applicants. Students can submit SAT or ACT scores if they believe the scores strengthen their application.
How many credits can transfer students bring to Central Washington University?
Transfer students can bring up to 90 quarter credits to Central Washington University. Students must complete at least 45 quarter credits at CWU to earn a degree.
Does Central Washington University offer early decision or early action?
Central Washington University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions throughout the year.