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 Reviews

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”
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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.

Western Washington University REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of Western Washington University?

112 Students rated Western Washington University

Sierra - 06/06/2024

I chose to go to WWU for a variety of reasons. First, I love Bellingham. It was the perfect size and proximity from larger cities and home (Port Angeles, WA). There is a great balance between night life, social scenes, and outdoor adventures nearby. The campus itself is the perfect distance from downtown: separated enough, but still walkable. I chose the school for its small class sizes, lack of Greek life, and variety of majors I was interested in. It did not disappoint! Other than the most popular classes on campus (Psych 101 for example), my classes usually had about 10-30 students. It didn't feel too intimate, but I felt comfortable enough to ask questions when I needed. Since WWU doesn't offer Greek life, there was no social hierarchy or big egos on campus. Even the star athletes are some of the nicest and friendliest students to interact with. There was less pressure to party during the week than I noticed at other colleges I visited or heard about from friends. Students also had more time to participate in rec sports or clubs. In terms of the professors/advisors/staff, everyone I interacted with was super helpful and kind. Professors hold regular office hours and answer emails in a timely manner. I only have good things to say about WWU! Even the gloomy winters were welcome: they encouraged more studying in the library next to a cozy window.

Brandon - 12/28/2023

Embarking on my academic journey at Western Washington University has been a profoundly enriching experience, one that I am eager to articulate. The palpable warmth and affability that pervade the campus create an environment where camaraderie flourishes among students and faculty alike. The collective friendliness of individuals on campus has not only eased my integration into the academic community but has also played a pivotal role in shaping my personal growth. From the professors who exude approachability and dedication to their craft, fostering an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity, to the amicable interactions with fellow students, the sense of community at Western is truly unparalleled. In the crucible of academia, I have found myself not only immersed in a rigorous educational curriculum but also surrounded by a support network that values individual evolution. The diverse academic offerings, coupled with a myriad of extracurricular opportunities, have facilitated a holistic development that extends beyond the confines of the classroom. This university has become a crucible for my intellectual and personal metamorphosis. The exposure to a vibrant academic community, coupled with the open-mindedness and friendliness that characterize interactions on campus, has significantly contributed to my personal evolution. As I navigate the corridors of knowledge, I am not merely a student; I am an integral part of a community that values both individuality and collective growth. In summation, my tenure at Western Washington University has been more than an academic pursuit; it has been a transformative journey. The friendly and supportive atmosphere has provided the fertile ground for not just educational attainment, but for the holistic evolution of my character. I am sincerely grateful for the unique experience Western has bestowed upon me, an experience that has left an indelible mark on both my academic and personal life.

Amy - 07/21/2023

When I first got to WWU I was excited to see what it had to offer. What I should've been prepared for was the overwhelming amount of white people there were on campus. As a black person, I felt very outnumbered, and it was very difficult to find spaces where BIPOC were allowed to flourish without the influence of white people. It was a very polarizing experience, and I could really only find solace in the hiphop club, other clubs involving ethnicity (Black Student Union, African Caribbean Club, and Filipino American Student Association). I wish that there was more diversity that didn't include other subsections of "white". I do appreciate the education I got there, but the social experience really played a role in my overall impression of the school.

Alegria - 07/17/2023

I adore Western. I have had almost exclusively positive experiences regarding my academic experience here. Class sizes are small and the university population is large but not overwhelming. There is plenty to do in the evenings and on weekends; I would recommend checking out live music in the area. The physical location is ideal -- there is an arboretum directly behind campus and we overlook the ocean. On-campus housing and dining is not ideal but it's also not required! Off-campus housing is as good as could be hoped for in any college town.

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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