Apply at Western | Western Technical College, La Crosse

Admissions

How to Apply

Let’s get started!

Are you planning to enroll in a Western program or just take a credit class? The answer will help you determine your next step:

Apply for a Program

Apply for admission as a program student if you plan to pursue an associate’s degree, technical diploma, certificate, or apprenticeship program. See the Steps for Program Admission process below, click the apply now button to complete the application online, or download a printable application.

Apply Now for a Program

Apply to Take Classes

Apply as a non-program student if you’re taking credits which are not going to be applied toward a Western degree, diploma, or certificate. Or if you are auditing a course. High school transcripts are not required, and assessment testing is only needed if the course has a prerequisite. Financial aid is not available for these applicants.

Apply Now to Take Classes

Steps for Program Admission

Step 1: Choose a Program

  • Review the program offerings.
  • Unsure which program you would like to pursue? We can help! Connect with a Career Coach, visit the Welcome Center, or call 608-785-9553 for additional guidance. 
  • High school students – connect with a High School Career Coach right at your school!
  • Military connected students – connect with the Veteran Military Center at Western
  • Already a student and thinking about changing your program? Meet with a College Advisor or call 608-785-9553.

Step 2: Complete Your Application

  • Complete an application for an associate’s degree, technical diploma, or certificate online with a $30 nonrefundable application fee. You may pay your application fee with a check, money order, or credit card. Apply online now or download printable application.

Step 3: Submit Transcripts

  • If you are applying for an associate's degree or technical diploma program, submit transcripts from high school and all previous colleges attended.

Step 4: Submit Testing Scores

Most associate degree and technical diploma programs require a skills assessment for class placement. Western uses the ACCUPLACER assessment for all incoming students unless they meet one of the following waivers:

  • High school GPA of 2.6 or greater
  • Minimum ACT (taken within the last five years)
    • Composite score of 17 – if applying for technical diploma and associate’s degree programs
    • Composite score of 19 – if applying for the university transfer Associate of Science Liberal Arts (ASLA) degree program
  • A degree (associate’s, bachelor’s or higher) from a regionally accredited higher educational institution.
  • Post-secondary GPA of 2.0  
  • Assessment scores from another educational institution indicating that you are a college-ready student in reading, writing, and/or mathematics. These may include scores from COMPASS, ASSET, or ACCUPLACER and must have been completed within the last five years.
  • GED scores in the College Ready range or above. Must meet both of the following to qualify for the waiver:
    • Reasoning Through Language Arts score of 165 or greater
    • Math score of 165 or greater

If the ACCUPLACER assessment is required, you can complete testing at any Western campus or regional location as well as at some high schools. Find out more about ACCUPLACER here.

Step 5: Complete Any Additional Program Requirements

  • Depending on the program, there may be additional requirements to complete the admissions process. The specific requirements are listed on each program page.

What Happens Next?

After you send your application

  • Watch Your Mailbox for Your Admissions Letter
    Your admissions letter will arrive about 15 business days after your application is received. This letter will confirm that you have applied to Western and list any missing admission requirements for your program. It will also include your Student ID Number. This is your key to entering all of our online student resources.
  • Complete Any Additional Requirements
    Depending on the program, there may be additional requirements to complete the admissions process. Refer to your specific program page for more information about what's needed.
  • Apply for Financial Aid
    If you have not already done so, now is the time to invest 30 minutes in your financial future by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
    Work with the Veteran Military Center for benefit processing.
  • Apply for Scholarships
    Don't miss the scholarship application deadline. Check out the scholarships page.
  • Join Western on Facebook
    Connect with Western to get all of the latest news and happenings.
  • Learn About Transfer Credit
    If you have earned college credit for classes taken in high school, attended another college in the past, or believe you may have work experience that applies to your program, find out how Western can help you obtain credit for prior learning.
  • Register for Classes
    Watch your mail for a letter with instructions on when you are eligible to register for classes.
  • Purchase Textbooks
    After registering, you will have access to a list of books and supplies on your MyWestern account. You can purchase them at the bookstore prior to the first class.
  • Attend Welcome Week
    If you’re new to Western, you’ll be required to attend Welcome Week before classes start, to get an overview of the resources available to you. Information will be sent to you with available date and time options.
  • Pay Your Tuition
    Western offers a variety of ways to pay tuition. These include cash, money order, traveler’s checks, check/credit card, installment payment plan, scholarships, financial aid, veteran's benefits, and agency/employer sponsorship.
  • Attend Classes and Earn Your Degree
    If you need assistance at Western, please refer to any of our support services. We look forward to seeing you on campus and involved with student life. 
Contacts

Career Coaches are available throughout your application process. Have questions or need advice? Just ask.

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