Admissions

How to Apply

Let’s get started. Below, we outline the steps to take as you choose your program, send your application, and begin to gear up for your college experience.

We’ll help you take advantage of the opportunities offered by your individual circumstances—for example, eligibility for veteran benefits or credit for prior learning.

Apply now

Your First Steps

Step 1: Choose a Program

  • Review the program offerings.
  • Unsure which program you would like to pursue? We can help! Connect with an advisor, 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 an 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 COMPASS, ACCUPLACER, or ACT Test Results

  • Submit COMPASS, ACCUPLACER, OR ACT test results if taken within the past five years. If your scores don’t meet the required program admissions scores, you can take brush-up courses and retest. 
  • You can complete COMPASS or ACCUPLACER testing at any Western campus or regional location. Contact Assessment Services or the location nearest you to schedule the COMPASS or ACCUPLACER test and submit the $20 testing fee.
  • If you have already taken the ACT test, but do not have your scores, you will need to request your ACT scores.
  • High school students: Check with your school counselor to see if the COMPASS or ACCUPLACER test is available at your high school.

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 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

Enrollment advisors are available throughout your application process. Have questions or need advice? Just ask.

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