About Western Washington University

Founded in 1893, Western Washington University. is a Public college. Located in Washington, which is a city setting in Washington, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 14,592 full time undergraduate students, and 982 full time graduate students.

The Western Washington University Academic calendar runs on a Quarter basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 19:1. There are 574 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Western Washington University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate83%
Application Deadline
Application Fee55
SAT Range990-1220
ACT Range23-28

Admissions at WWU are considered Less Selective, with ,100% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 27 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

89% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 55% were in the top quarter, and 23% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Western Washington University.

1%
“We”re apathetic”
6%
“We know about current events and vote”
51%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
42%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
22%
“Sometimes, but not often”
55%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
17%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
4%
“I only go out in groups”
51%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
44%
“I feel extremely safe”
71%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
23%
“We bought the gear”
6%
“We live for the big game”
1%
“It”s not really our thing”
6%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
52%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
41%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
80%
“They keep regular office hours”
18%
“They”re always available”
92%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
6%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
2%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
2%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
27%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
50%
“We only party on weekends”
21%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
2%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
38%
“There might be people who do”
46%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
13%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
1%
“We”re apathetic”
6%
“We know about current events and vote”
51%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
42%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
22%
“Sometimes, but not often”
55%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
17%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
4%
“I only go out in groups”
51%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
44%
“I feel extremely safe”
71%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
23%
“We bought the gear”
6%
“We live for the big game”
1%
“It”s not really our thing”
6%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
52%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
41%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
80%
“They keep regular office hours”
18%
“They”re always available”
92%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
6%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
2%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
2%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
27%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
50%
“We only party on weekends”
21%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
2%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
38%
“There might be people who do”
46%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
13%
“There”s a huge drug scene”

Western Washington University REVIEWS

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  • How would you rate on-campus housing?

    227 Students rated on-campus housing 3.6 stars. 10 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate off-campus housing?

    172 Students rated off-campus housing 3.9 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus food?

    245 Students rated campus food 3.1 stars. 9 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus facilities?

    250 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 37 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate class size?

    249 Students rated class size 4 stars. 33 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate school activities?

    250 Students rated school activities 4.1 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate local services?

    250 Students rated local services 4.4 stars. 54 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate academics?

    250 Students rated academics 4.2 stars. 35 % gave the school a 5.0.

What's your overall opinion of Western Washington University?

111 Students rated Western Washington University

kelsey - 06/17/2020

I really enjoy life at Western. When I first started here I had a lot of expectations about college life, some good and some bad, and for the most part Western has done pretty well in holding up to that. I am glad to go here. There is a lot of opportunities and lessons learned by living in this town.

Kaia - 05/06/2020

It's a good small school. There is a wide range of interesting classes, but it isn't as overwhelming as a larger school like UW. We don't have a football team or greek life and I like that since when a university has those it tends to prioritize those organizations. The most popular major is environmental studies and people are pretty environmentally-conscious. People are pretty laid back, like to go outdoors, and smoke some pot. The campus is really close to downtown and there are some nice cafes, restaurants, and theaters. Food in the dining halls isn't that great, but decent enough to eat every once in a while; the chicken sandwiches are good, there's a good salad bar, and a soft-serve station (although sometimes its unreliable. The city it is in is on the ocean so it can get very windy, but there are good views from the main dining hall on campus. There are a lot of buses that go through campus to and from downtown, but the buses are often late, and depending on the time can be very packed. Overall a good, laidback school with a lot of options to entertain yourself as it is easy to take the train or a bus to Seattle or Vancouver, BC.

Brinley - 04/28/2020

It is a beautiful campus, filled with trees and art and is a very simple layout. It is not too big and the students who attend are generally very kind. The landscape is all the good parts of the pacific north west. Very good for students who are more into nature and being outside. There is also a huge science department and art is very big here too.

Emily - 04/24/2020

Western Washington University is situated in the Northwest corner of Washington state. With a beautiful campus that boasts views of Bellingham bay and a large arboretum, WWU is a nature-lovers dream. While students tend to be laid-back, academic excellence is still a priority and the many active extra-curricular clubs and events offer a range of possibilities for interested students. There is a large focus on outdoor recreation, with opportunities to summit nearby Mt. Baker through the Outdoor Center, kayaking lessons, and much more. Class sizes are small, and the professors take time to connect with their students. Quietly boasting the best teacher-education program in Washington state, the Woodring College of Education is a progressive college within Western that prepares teachers to enter classrooms ready to make an impact on students. An excellent school for students who enjoys the outdoors but are committed to their education, Western Washington University offers high-quality academic opportunities and outdoor adventure alike.

Western Washington University FAQS

  1. What is the Acceptance Rate at Western Washington University?

    The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Western Washington University is 83%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020 , _____ students were offered admission. The number of males who applied was _____ vs the number of females which was _____.

  2. What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

    Apply sooner! I realize WWU was/is your last choice, but there's really only one place that is 'the' place to be for on-campus housing: the Nash/Mathes complex! People everywhere are nice, but applying later is going to get you put in your last choice for housing, and in your case, that did not turn out to be the optimum housing/first-year experience! Also, give clubs more of a chance that just one or two meetings...that is not enough time to really get to know people for who they really are to be able to fully enjoy the club experience! Be sure to participate in language classes more than you think is necessary, too, because the professors are extremely harsh in that area of grading. All in all, just use common sense and get involved; everyone in Bellingham is friendly. Oh, and if you decide to go to Warm Cookie Night (or a special meal), make sure to arrive atleast 15 minutes early at the dining hall to line up!

    Read all  226 answers
  3. Describe the students at your school.

    My classmates were intestly focused, openminded and extremely competitve.

    Read all  50 answers
  4. Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

    It's small and in a beautiful location.

    Read all  44 answers
  5. What's unique about your campus?

    The community is the best thing about WWU. Everyone is extremely friendly, inviting, and open-minded. It is the best possible atmosphere to be in if you want to get to know yourself a little more, while still getting to know new people.

    Read all  40 answers
  6. Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

    Western Washington University is an institution that is accepting of differences, encouraging of scholars, and located in a breathtakingly beautiful area.

    Read all  39 answers
  7. What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

    Beautiful location. Small and personal class sizes. Competitive programs.

    Read all  38 answers
  8. What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

    I think the worst thing about WWU is that it is difficult for students to get into classes needed to complete undergraduate requirements and prerequisites for majors. I am hoping to major in Chemistry, yet I have only been able to complete the lowest level class due to the lack of availability. Also, my good friend is debating whether she wants to complete her degree at WWU because of the estimated time it takes to finish her degree.

    Read all  38 answers
  9. What kind of person should attend this school?

    The type of person who should attend Western Washington University is a dedicated friendly person. It takes hard work to do well in the challenging academic atmosphere Western has to offer. The other students at Western are very friendly, outgoing, and fun to be around. The accepting student body makes western fun and very interesting place to be.

    Read all  37 answers
  10. What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

    I'm a transfer and it's hard to make friends living off campus.

    Read all  37 answers
  11. What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

    Nothing it is a very easy school to get use too.

    Read all  36 answers
  12. Describe your favorite campus traditions.

    Not sure. I believe that it is well known in Washington for being a fairly small state school. Some departments have good reputations outside of Washington.

    Read all  25 answers
  13. What kind of person should not attend this school?

    A conservative individual who is not interested in having their beliefs and personal standards challenged should not attend this school. This is a liberal school where a closed minded individual, if not willing to see broader perspecitives, would get lost. Asking for help is important at this school. If a person needs a lot of hand-holding through the financial aid process, this is not the right school for you.

    Read all  25 answers
  14. What is your overall opinion of this school?

    Overall, I think Western Washington University is a great school. Although they aren't the largest, I think they have many programs to choose from to study as well as to help you figure out what to study. Bellingham is a great place to live with many recreational opportunities. I am happier here than I ever thought I would be.

    Read all  8 answers
  15. What are the academics like at your school?

    My major is Behavioral Neuroscience. I am really excited to pursue this program because it is sometime I am really interested and because it gives me multiple opportunities. Many students in my program either start their career right after graduation or go on to graduate school to further their education. I feel that many of the departments give students a chance to begin a career in their field right away if they can't or would rather not continue on to graduate school. Also, the majority of my professors have been very helpful and friendly, enabling to learn the most I can in my classes. I have only had a couple professors I didn't make the connection with in the classroom.

    Read all  7 answers
  16. What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

    Many outsiders think Western students are hippies- wrong! In fact, many students are "normal" just like you. Most people do not walk around without shoes or eat berries off of campus bushes. However, this can be seen on a weekly basis, especially when the weather permits.

    Read all  7 answers
  17. What are the most popular student activities/groups?

    The groups I hear about the most at Western is the LGBT group and sports. I am involved in Western women's club lacrosse team and I love it. There are a lot of parties around campus on the weekends, but not as many of them involve drinking as you would think in a college town. Many times people have get togethers that involve going to the bowling alley and just having a good time. There is no greek system at Western.

    Read all  5 answers
  18. What is the stereotype of students at your school?

    that they are all pot heads, have dreds, are really laid back and chill, don't judge others, dont fake tan or wear much makeup

    Read all  2 answers
  19. Where is the best place to get work done on campus?

    The library is my favorite place to get some work done! If you're in the mood for a louder location, the bottom floor in Zoe's Bagels is the place to be, or if you want peace and quiet the upstairs with a view of Bellingham Bay is my favorite study spot!

    Read all  2 answers
  20. Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?

    umm some are, not everyone smokes (me as an example) but a lot do. it is a very granola place, no one really judges people too much, but it still has some girl drama (can't ever get away from it all), no cliques really

    Read all  1 answers
  21. When you step off campus what do you see?

    I see neighborhoods filled with college students living in houses as well as apartments. In some places, you can see the bay.

    Read all  1 answers

Student Body

Students

56%

female

44%

male

14,592

Total Undergrad Enrollment

982

Total Grad Students

16%

Out-Of-State

83%

In-State

1%

International

Organizations

220

Student Organizations

N/A

Fraternities

N/A

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

27%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native
N/A
% Asian/Pacific Islander
6%
% Black or African-American
2%
% Hispanic/Latino
8%
% White or Caucasian
72%

TUITION & AID

All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA. Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.

83% of students attending Western Washington University receive some sort of financial aid. 25% were awarded federal grants. While 44% received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

Cost Out of State

$21,567

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$906

Books and Supplies

$10,350

Room and Board

32,823

Total On Campus

Actual Cost By Income Level(W/Financial Aid)

Family Income
Cost
$0 - $30K
$9,241
$30 - $48K
$10,557
$48 - $75K
$15,270
$75 - $110K
$20,572
$110K & UP
$21,717

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

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