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Frequently asked questions about freshman admission

Do I apply as a freshman or a transfer student?
Apply as a freshman if any of the following statements describe you.
  • You plan to enter UW Tacoma right after graduating from high school.
  • You are in Washington State’s Running Start Program and you plan to enter UW Tacoma right after graduating (regardless of how many college credits you have earned or will earn).
  • You have never attended college since leaving high school (regardless of your age or whether you ever graduated).
When is the deadline for freshman admission?
The priority application date for freshman admission is March 1. Applications will continue to be accepted after March 1 and will be considered on a space-available basis. Applicants who submit completed applications by January 15 will receive priority consideration for scholarships.
How do I send my ACT or SAT test scores to UW Tacoma?
Students must arrange to have scores sent directly from the testing agency or high school guidance office. Arranging to have scores sent directly from the testing agency will speed up the processing of your application. Learn more about submitting your SAT or ACT scores.
What if I have taken the tests more than once (or taken both tests)?
When students submit scores from more than one sitting of the same test (for example, March and October SAT) or scores from the SAT and ACT, the highest combined score from a single test date will be used. The best mathematics score from one test date will not be combined with the best verbal score from another test date.
How are freshman applicants evaluated?
Applicants will be evaluated on a number of factors, including: grades and test scores; rigor of curriculum; activities and accomplishments; educational goals; diverse life experiences; and first generation college status. The factors are not of equal weight and no single factor will be sufficient to confer admission.
The University will offer admission to applicants who will most benefit from and contribute to the University's educational community. In selecting the freshman class, the University does not make admission decisions solely on the basis of past academic accomplishments. The intention is to enroll a freshman class that, as a whole, represents the diversity of our community.
Can I still get financial aid if I apply after February 28?
UW Tacoma's Financial Aid Office will strive to ensure that students receive aid commensurate with their need no matter when they apply. The earlier you apply, the more options for aid that are available, but it is not uncommon for students to commit to continuing their education within a few months of when they want to enroll at access-oriented universities like UW Tacoma.
What housing or apartment options are available on the UW Tacoma campus?
UW Tacoma currently offers very limited student housing. There are, however, a variety of housing options within a short distance from campus. More information on housing.
Can home-schooled students be considered for freshman admission?
Yes. Please contact the Office of Admissions for more information.
I'm a Running Start student. Do I apply as a freshman or transfer?
Running Start students should use the Freshman Application. If you are admitted, college credit will be awarded for those college-level courses that have been successfully completed and meet UW transfer credit equivalencies. Running Start students still need to meet high school core requirements and submit SAT or ACT scores.
 

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