Admissions
You want more from life. Let us help you get started.
Your quick guide to admission and enrollment.
Earning your degree can not only open the door to increased earning potential, it can change families and communities for generations. From admission to graduation, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
The admission process is simple and straightforward.
- Complete admission form.
- Submit official transcripts.
- Contact your Enrollment Counselor.
- If desired, complete FAFSA form for financial aid.
(Individual degree programs may have additional admission requirements.)
Next Possible Start
Start dates are the 1st of every month. Meet requirements by the 15th to start next month. Discuss steps and deadlines with your Enrollment Counselor.
APPLY TODAY
866-225-5948Student success IS our business—your support starts now.
Helping our students succeed is at the heart of everything we do. If you have any questions about admission or degree programs, or would like help with any part of the process, your Enrollment Counselor is there to provide all the support you need.
“From the very beginning, the whole process was very smooth. My enrollment counselors were knowledgeable and helpful. If I did run into any kind of little snag, somebody was always there to help me.” Cindy Krupinski
B.S. Information Technology
WGU is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion as part of our university mission.
WGU’s mission is to help as many people as possible obtain the quality education they desire. We recognize every individual has talent and potential, but not every individual has the same access to opportunity. Our goal is to help as many students as possible reach their educational goals and use their talent to change their lives, regardless of race, color, nationality, gender, religion, disability, orientation, or age. We know that diversity is crucial to ongoing growth and progress, particularly in higher education. That's why we are determined to make our university inclusive to all types of learners.
General admissions criteria.
For each student who applies, WGU will evaluate the following:
- Any prior college and/or work experience submitted by applicant (if any).
- The amount of time you can commit to your program each week.
Students may also meet admissions requirements by completing the relevant program of study at WGU Academy, a pre-enrollment alternative pathway to regular enrollment at WGU.
Program criteria.
Many WGU programs have specific admission requirements. To be considered for enrollment into a bachelor's degree program, applicants must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent. Click on the links below to learn more about specific admission requirements for your degree program.
Submitting past transcripts.
If you have prior college experience, official transcripts should be sent directly from the previous institution via secure electronic channels or be mailed directly from the previous institution.
Mail option:
Western Governors University
Attn: Transcripts Department
4001 South 700 East, Suite 300
Salt Lake City, UT 84107-2533
Electronic option:
Western Governors University,
Student Records 03339400
transcriptinfo@wgu.edu
Admissions FAQs
What if English isn’t my first language?
As a WGU student, you will be expected to communicate clearly in writing and during conversations with your mentor and WGU staff. If English is not your native language, you will need to submit proof of a qualifying score on the internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language Test (TOEFL iBT). WGU requires a qualifying score of 80 or higher. WGU’s TOEFL code is 3949. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor to get additional information. (For more information specifically on the TOEFL, visit the TOEFL website.)
Will you admit students living outside the U.S.?
At the present time, WGU is accepting applications only from individuals living in the United States. (The exceptions are U.S. active-duty military personnel and their families at overseas installations and individuals living in Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands.)
Unfortunately, we have discovered we cannot always guarantee that the educational experience for students living outside the United States will meet our high standards for quality and convenience. It is our expectation that these problems will be solved in future years. An Enrollment Counselor has more information about which areas are eligible to submit applications.
What if my prior college was outside the U.S.?
Applicants who have completed coursework outside of the United States must provide one copy of official transcripts or certified true copies with official English translation of all documents. Applicants are responsible for submitting transcripts that have been evaluated for U.S. equivalence. Click here for more information about international transfer credit evaluation.
What if my prior college no longer exists?
If you attended a college that no longer exists, you may be able to get transcripts from a state agency, such as a Department of Consumer Affairs or Department of Higher Education. If the college was taken over by another school, check with the current school. You can also submit any unofficial copies of transcripts or course records you may have, although we can’t promise that you will be able to waive any WGU requirements.
Do I have to pay the application fee to be admitted?
Yes. You may talk to an Enrollment Counselor without paying the application fee, but the fee must be paid before you can be admitted. The application fee helps defray our costs associated with admissions, transcript collection, enrolling students, etc. Note: It is against federal regulations to use financial aid for an application fee.
Join students like you.
Whether you’re the first in your family to go to college, live in a rural area, or want to move ahead in your career, you are not alone. At WGU, our goal is put a quality education within reach for as many people as possible. And with nearly 130,000 students from all 50 states, you’re sure to meet other students who understand where you’re coming from.
Who attends WGU?
Connect with student communities.
Once you enroll, you’ll be able to connect with a wide range of student groups and communities, including groups of students working on the same course as you. Many WGU grads say connecting with other students made a huge difference in their success.
Computer system requirements.
Because WGU programs are hosted online, students must possess or have access to a computer and internet access that meet certain technological requirements.