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Graduate Studies and Research

Apply as a Graduate Student

We know you will do something great at CWU and completing the graduate application for admission is the first step.

Pursuing a graduate degree or certificate will enable you to gain advanced knowledge and skills, participate in new experiences, enhance your research skills, and improve your competitiveness in the job market.

What do I need to apply for graduate school?

We offer admission to applicants who demonstrate high potential for success in their chosen graduate studies. Be sure to communicate with your department about their deadlines and requirements.

What's Needed

  • Official Transcripts from all community colleges, colleges and universities attended - transcripts are considered "official" when they are sent  to us directly from the school or a provider such as Parchment, National Clearing House or WES or an equivalent evaluation service. If you attended Central Washington University the Graduate School will have access to that transcript.
  • Test Scores: The GRE & GMAT test scores are not required by the Graduate School, however, the program you are applying to may request additional test scores, so be sure to check with the program’s department to verify. 
  • Statement of educational and professional objectives.
  • Resume
  • Additional Support Materials may be required such as a writing sample. Visit the program's webpage to see if additional materials are required.

Steps to Apply  

  1. Ensure you meet admission requirements  
  2. Complete a graduate admission application and pay the $75.00 nonrefundable application fee  
  3. Submit your official transcripts and any additional materials  

You Belong at CWU

Elevate your academic pursuits at Central Washington University's School of Graduate Studies and Research. Advance your knowledge and skills and prepare for a successful career ahead.

Apply Today

Dates and Deadlines

For consideration into a master's degree or certificate program, all materials should be submitted by the priority deadline (see dates below). Not all programs accept applications each quarter. Be sure to check with the program you are applying to for additional information / requirements.

Starting Quarter Priority Deadline
Fall February 1
Winter October 1
Spring January 1
Summer April 1

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree Requirement

    You must have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally credited institution in the U.S. or the equivalent bachelor’s degree from an international institution that is officially recognized by that country.

  • GPA Requirement

    Applicants must earn a minimum of a cumulative 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) in all graded coursework attempted in at least the last 90 quarter (60 semester) hours of recognized academic work. If you do not meet the minimum GPA requirements, your application may still be considered by the department on a case by case basis. 

  • Additional Requirements
    Admission Application

    Your admission application must be completed and signed. Note that the signature on the form indicates your pledge that all information given is accurate and that all documents submitted for admission review are true and valid. 

    Written Statement of Educational and Professional Objectives

    Write a statement, approximately 500 words, of educational and professional objectives outlining your career goals and detailing any additional information that will help the admissions committee understand your educational objectives and needs. The statement of educational and professional objectives is one of the most important deciding factors for entrance into graduate school. One resource that may help guide your organization of the statement is the Online Writing Lab at Purdue University. Your statement should portray you as: 

    • Passionately interested in your field and/or how you will apply the knowledge to your future profession 
    • Well-prepared academically and personally able to take on the challenges of graduate school 
    • Able to have rapport with professors and fellow grad students - in other words, collegial 
  • International Applicants 

    Many of our graduate students are international students as well! Admission requirements may require additional resources to support the unique needs of international students, such as visa and immigration assistance and language support. Learn more about International Student Admission Requirements.

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School of Graduate Studies and Research

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