Washington State University Acceptance Rate 2026

Last updated:

Washington State University Acceptance Rate 2026

Quick Answer

Western Washington University (WWU) in Bellingham maintains a highly accessible acceptance rate of 93.25% as of April 2026, making it one of the more inclusive public universities in the Pacific Northwest. With in-state tuition at $9,582 annually and a median earnings figure of $62,569 ten years after entry, WWU offers an affordable pathway to a bachelor’s degree with solid post-graduation outcomes.

Preparing for test? Kaplan’s test prep has helped millions score higher.

Learn More →

Acceptance Snapshot

Western Washington University admitted the vast majority of applicants in the 2026 admission cycle, with an acceptance rate of 93.25%. This high acceptance rate reflects WWU’s mission as a public regional university committed to access and affordability. The university’s open admissions philosophy means that prospective students with a high school diploma or GED are generally welcome to apply, though specific program requirements may vary.

The acceptance rate has remained consistently high year over year, positioning WWU as an institution where qualified applicants have a strong chance of admission. This contrasts with highly selective universities where acceptance rates fall below 20%, and aligns WWU with other public regional universities that prioritize access to higher education.

Tuition & Costs

In-State Tuition: $9,582 per year

Out-of-State Tuition: $28,707 per year

Average Net Price: $21,193 per year

Western Washington University offers significantly lower tuition for Washington state residents compared to out-of-state students—a difference of $19,125 annually. Even for out-of-state students, the total cost of attendance remains competitive within the regional public university landscape. The average net price of $21,193 reflects what students typically pay after accounting for grants and aid, providing a realistic picture of the financial commitment required.

Get expert feedback on your university application essay

Learn More →

Financial Aid Overview

The average net price of $21,193 indicates that most students receive some form of financial aid to offset the published tuition and fees. This figure is substantially lower than the sticker price, particularly for in-state students, suggesting that WWU’s financial aid packages meaningfully reduce the burden on families. Students should contact the university’s financial aid office for personalized estimates based on their family’s income and circumstances.

Graduation Rates

Western Washington University reports a 65.09% completion rate (six-year graduation rate), meaning approximately two-thirds of students who enroll complete their degree within six years. This rate is comparable to or slightly above the national average for public regional universities, indicating that WWU provides adequate academic support and resources for students to successfully complete their programs.

Post-Graduation Earnings

Graduates of Western Washington University earn a median of $62,569 ten years after entry, according to the most recent data available. This figure reflects earnings across all majors and provides a useful benchmark for assessing the long-term financial return on a WWU degree. Earnings vary significantly by field of study, with engineering, computer science, and business graduates typically earning above this median, while education and humanities graduates may earn somewhat less.

Western Washington University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across engineering, business, education, liberal arts, and sciences. The university’s location in Bellingham and proximity to Seattle’s tech corridor make programs in computer science, engineering, and business particularly relevant to the regional job market. For detailed information on specific majors, enrollment numbers, and program-specific outcomes, prospective students should consult WWU’s official academic program listings.

Demographics

Western Washington University serves a student body of 13,544 students as of the 2026 academic year. The university draws primarily from Washington state and the Pacific Northwest region, though it also enrolls international and out-of-state students. For detailed demographic breakdowns by race, ethnicity, gender, and other characteristics, prospective students should visit WWU’s institutional research office or official admissions website, which provides the most current enrollment data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Western Washington University’s acceptance rate?

Western Washington University has an acceptance rate of 93.25% as of April 2026, making it a highly accessible public university for qualified applicants with a high school diploma or GED.

How much does it cost to attend WWU?

In-state tuition is $9,582 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $28,707 per year. The average net price (what students typically pay after financial aid) is $21,193 per year. Total cost of attendance including room, board, and other expenses will be higher and varies by individual circumstances.

What are the graduation rates at WWU?

Western Washington University reports a six-year graduation rate of 65.09%, meaning approximately two-thirds of students complete their degree within six years of enrollment.

How much do WWU graduates earn after graduation?

Graduates earn a median of $62,569 ten years after entry, though earnings vary significantly by major. Engineering and business graduates typically earn above this median, while education and humanities graduates may earn somewhat less.

Is WWU a good value for the cost?

With in-state tuition below $10,000 annually and a median net price around $21,000, WWU offers an affordable option for Washington residents. The combination of low cost, high acceptance rate, and solid post-graduation earnings makes it a reasonable value proposition, particularly for students who qualify for additional financial aid.

How selective is Western Washington University?

With a 93.25% acceptance rate, WWU is not highly selective in the traditional sense. The university prioritizes access and welcomes most applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent. However, specific programs (such as engineering or nursing) may have additional admission requirements.

Does WWU offer financial aid to out-of-state students?

Yes, WWU offers financial aid to both in-state and out-of-state students, though out-of-state students typically receive less institutional aid due to budget constraints. The average net price of $21,193 reflects aid across the entire student body. Out-of-state students should contact the financial aid office for specific information about scholarships and aid eligibility.

Data Sources

The statistics and figures in this article are sourced from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard database. Data was accessed on April 11, 2026.

Important Note: College admissions data, tuition rates, and financial aid figures change annually. Prospective students and families should verify all current figures directly with Western Washington University’s admissions and financial aid offices before making enrollment decisions. This article provides a snapshot of available data but should not be considered a substitute for official institutional information.