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How to Apply as a First Year Student

Get personalized guidance every step of the way, from submitting your application to exploring financial aid options and making your enrollment decision.

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Application Deadlines

At Willamette University, we're excited to help you create the strongest application possible and support you every step of the way. We encourage you to apply early to allow more time to review your offer of admission, discuss financial aid options and visit. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we're here to assist you! Applications open and are available beginning August 1.

  • Spring Entry

    • Apply By: November 1
    • Receive Decision By: November 15
    • Enrollment Deposit Due: December 13
  • Fall Entry - Early Action (Non-Binding) and Early Decision (Binding)

    • Apply By: November 1
    • Supporting Materials By: November 15
    • Receive Decision By: December 13
    • Early Decision Enrollment Deposit Due: January 15
    • Early Action Enrollment Deposit Due: May 1

    Complete your Early Action or Early Decision application on time to receive the Leaders Award, an additional $1,000 annual ($4,000 total) scholarship.

  • Fall Entry - Regular Decision

    • Apply By: January 15
    • Supporting Materials By: January 29
    • Receive Decision By: February 14
    • Enrollment Deposit Due: May 1

    Complete your Regular Decision application on time to receive the Pathfinders Award, an additional $500 annual ($2,000 total) scholarship.

The admission committee reserves the right to delay an admission decision if additional materials or grades will prove helpful in the review of an application. Applicants will be notified via email of these requests.

Late applications are considered on a space-available basis. Contact the Office of Admissions if applying after the deadlines. For fall entry, we are unable to accept applications for first year students after June 30, transfer students after July 14 and international students requiring a visa after February 1. For spring entry, we are unable to accept applications after November 1.

Application Materials and Process

First-year applicants are students who have not yet graduated high school and will enter Willamette without having enrolled full-time at a college or university. This includes students who are enrolled in dual-enrollment courses and will complete an associate degree as part of their high school graduation requirements.

Privacy

We protect the privacy of the information you share with us through the application process. Read our privacy policy

We're here to help you navigate the application process. Contact us at 503-370-6303 or bearcat@willamette.edu anytime with questions or for guidance.

Apply now and take the first step towards your future at Willamette University.

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Willamette University

Office of Admissions

  • Graduate and Professional Center

    Address

    Ecotrust Building
    721 NW 9th Ave
    Portland Oregon 97209 U.S.A.