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 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. 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 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. Download a 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 ACCUPLACER, ASSET, COMPASS, or ACT Test Results

  • Submit ACCUPLACER, ASSET, COMPASS, or ACT test results if taken within the past three years. 
  • You can complete ACCUPLACER testing at any Western campus or regional location. Contact Assessment Services or the regional location nearest you to schedule the ACCUPLACER test and submit the $25 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 ACCUPLACER 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 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

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

Regional Locations