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Western Washington University

Bellingham, Washington · Public

$19k/yearCost after aid
Jan 31Application deadline

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
A-Academics
CAdmissions
A-Student Life
A-Overall

About

Western Washington University is located in Bellingham, Washington. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 13,574 students.

wwu.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

$19kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$9,286
Out-of-state tuition$27,853
Room & board$14,915
Students receiving aid21%
Pell grant recipients21%

Western Washington University offers an affordable education, especially for Washington residents, with tuition and fees around $8,523. Out-of-state students can benefit from the Western Undergraduate Exchange program, potentially saving over $15,000 in tuition. The university also provides merit-based scholarships and grants to help students manage costs.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1110–1350
4001600
ACT · middle 50%23–29
136

Application info

Acceptance rate91%
Student–faculty ratio17:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$70

Application dates

Regular DecisionJan 31

Western Washington University seeks ambitious students with a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference. While SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required, a high school GPA is required. The university values leadership, service, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its admissions process.

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Academics

Graduation rate65%
Retention rate80%
Student–faculty ratio17:1
Full-time faculty69%

Western Washington University provides a rigorous academic environment with a focus on hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. Small class sizes, with an average of 26 students, allow for personalized attention from faculty. The university is particularly known for its programs in environmental studies, education, and business.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$62,569
Job placement rate95%
Internship rate91%
Earn more than HS grad73%
Economic mobility113%
Loan default (3 yr)2%
Loan repayment (3 yr)74%

WWU boasts a strong track record for career placement, with 90% of alumni employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation. Graduates find opportunities at leading companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing. The university's focus on hands-on learning and close faculty connections prepares students for success in their chosen fields.

Student life

Demographics

Large School
13,574Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 58%Male 42%
69% WhiteRacial diversity
White 69%Hispanic 11%Asian 6%Black 2%Other 12%
Campus housingYes

WWU offers a vibrant campus life with over 250 student-run clubs and organizations. Students enjoy a welcoming community and easy access to outdoor activities, thanks to the university's location between the Salish Sea and the North Cascades. The Associated Students of Western Washington University provides funding and support for student-led initiatives.

Student reviews

Professors

Senior

On campus, the professors are usually very nice and welcoming and are always happy to talk. While GUR classes are large (50-75 people), by your third year, the class sizes are around 20-30 students if not smaller. The school is also committed to equity and diversity, and is a very inclusive place to be. Overall, I loved my experience at Western and would recommend the school to anyone interested in applying.

Current Student

I was accepted into western Washington University for spring 2021, my major is computer science and so far my experience has been great. During covid and everything being online, it's been very difficult to get an advising appointment and to create your own schedule. These advisors made online schooling much easier for me and the process of enrolling into western as well.

Campus and vibes

Student

I love how the campus has so much to offer. There's a lot of things to find around campus and on every walk to take through it, you'll be sure to find something new and interesting to look into, whether it be events, clubs, sports, crafts, volunteer work, etc. There's endless possibilities at western and students have a lot of resources for whenever they have questions, need a guide, have financial worries, whatever the problem is there's usually a department of some sort that can help.

About Western Washington University

Western Washington University is known for being a safe and welcoming campus. Security measures include frequent campus police patrols, emergency stations throughout campus, and safe walk programs for students traveling at night. The Western Washington University Police Department also has a staff of "Green Coats" under their public safety branch, who offer safety escorts on campus, event security staffing and building access services for current students.

The Honors College at Western Washington University offers a unique blend of a small liberal arts college experience within a larger public institution. Honors students benefit from small classes, close interaction with professors, and opportunities for research and creative activities. The program emphasizes community, intellectual inquiry, and academic excellence.

Western Washington University provides a supportive environment for international students, with resources to help them adjust to life in the US. The university's location between Seattle and Vancouver offers access to diverse cultural experiences. STEM-designated programs may qualify international students for extended post-graduation stay through Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Endowment$115,126,944
Avg faculty salary$136,464

Western Washington University FAQ

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Western Washington University admits about 91% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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