Online Learning

So what's next?

• Step 1: Confirm Admissions

  • Set up your MyCWU account. This will allow you to view your "To Do's", Financial Aid, receive updates, and more.
    • Using your CWU username visit the CWU Account Management page.
    • Your username was given to you after you submitted your application for admission (Wildcat Pro Tip: check your email and look for mail from CWU Service Desk).
    • This username and password are different from the ID you used to apply for admission.
    • Be sure to change your password and keep your username and password handy. We recommend on your phone, so you always have it.
    • For technical assistance for MyCWU, or if you have not received an email with your temporary password, please contact the CWU Service Desk at 509-963-2001.
  • Confirming lets CWU know you intend to enroll in classes.
    • We recommend accepting as soon as you're admitted
  • Send your final transcripts (if necessary)
    • If you are currently enrolled at a high school or college, please send a final transcript after you have finished your final courses. If you do not send a final transcript, you may not be able to register for future courses at CWU.

• Step 2: Apply for Financial Aid

  Even if you don't think you qualify, we recommend you apply for financial aid and scholarships. Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There is no submission deadline for FAFSA/WASFA. FAFSA is free and secure: you should never pay to submit your FAFSA.

  • Check your CWU email frequently. You may be asked to verify your financial aid information through the Financial Aid office. The verification process could take some time, but our offices will help you through it.

  • Scholarship Central, which can be found in your MyCWU portal, also has scholarship information.

  • Visit CWU Scholarships for more information.
  • Other scholarships are available through Scholarship Central, which can be found in your MyCWU portal.

  Questions? Contact the office of Financial Aid at, financialaid@cwu.edu, or get more information by visiting the financial aid website.

• Step 3: Participate in Online Orientation

  Online students do not participate in the same orientation sessions as in-person Ellensburg and University Center students do.

  To complete your online orientation requirements please ensure that you accept your CWU Student Intake form, and that you schedule a session with your assigned professional advisor in order to register for classes.

• Step 4: Prepare for Your Online Classes

  • Canvas: all online classes are delivered via Canvas. You must log in with your CWU credentials. Additional help for Canvas can be found on the Online Learning website.
  • Textbooks: There are two options for ordering textbooks.
    • Students may purchase the books online from the CWU University Bookstore or they may purchase them from a third-party vendor.
    • Students who want to use their financial aid to purchase textbooks MUST use the CWU University Bookstore option. The bookstore also sells CWU sweatshirts, t-shirts, and various school supplies.
  • Student Email Account
    • Every student admitted to CWU has access to a free CWU Outlook email account. Outlook is the main email source for CWU students. It will be important for you to check your CWU email and Canvas Inbox on a regular basis.
  • Disability Services
    • Disability Services (DS) is dedicated to creating an inclusive university culture that celebrates diversity. DS provides individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to fully participate in and benefit from all aspects of the education environment.
    • Students wishing to request disability accommodations should contact DS at (509) 963-2214 or visit the DS webpage.