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Crafting a Personal Statement

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A Personal Statement is a written component of a student’s application to a graduate or professional degree program that allows a student to explain their reasons for applying, and usually serves as the answer to a specific prompt that is given, such as “How will completing the _____ program at _____ college help you achieve your professional goals?” When no prompt is provided, the goal is to tell your story which creates a more holistic view of who you are and your candidacy.

Connect with us:

Contact us: 9a-5p, M-F | 134 Mary Gates Hall | Seattle, WA 98195 | (206) 543-0535 tel | [email protected]

The Division of Student Life acknowledges the Coast Salish people of this land, the land which touches the shared waters of all tribes and bands within the Suquamish, Tulalip, and Muckleshoot Nations. Student Life is committed to developing and maintaining an inclusive climate that honors the diverse array of students, faculty, and staff. We strive to provide pathways for success and to purposefully confront and dismantle existing physical, social, and psychological barriers for minoritized students and communities. We engage in this work while learning and demonstrating cultural humility.

  • Graduate Studies

Admission Requirements

Applications for Autumn 2022 may be submitted online at the Graduate School Application website. We ONLY accept applications for Autumn quarter.  Application instructions, including how to apply electronically, are posted at  Application for Graduate Admission . 

As part of our commitment to increasing diversity, equity and inclusion in the profession, students and postdocs in the Department of Statistics offer a Pre-Application Review Service (PARS) to help applicants to Ph.D. programs (either at UW or any other programs) develop more competitive applications.  This program is separate from our Ph.D. admission process.  You can find more information about PARS  here .

The deadlines for COMPLETED applications are:

  • December 1, 2021 - PhD applications (For PhD applicants, a limited number of teaching assistantships will be available beginning Autumn 2022). 
  • March 3 and 4, 2022 - Accepted Ph.D. applicants will be invited to attend the Department's Visit Days. This will provide an opportunity to learn about the campus, meet the faculty, staff, and students, learn more about the academic program, and about living in Seattle, by interacting with students, staff and faculty.

Applicants for graduate studies in Statistics are strongly encouraged but not required to take the GRE Mathematics Subject Test. All applicants should arrange to have three letters of recommendation submitted online. Unofficial transcripts are required from all previous schools attended. A statement of purpose is also required. Application instructions, including how to apply to the UW Graduate School electronically, are posted at  Application for Graduate Admission . 

All international and immigrant status applicants-including transfer applicants-whose native language is not English are required by the Graduate School to take the  Test of English as a Foreign Language  (TOEFL). Almost all of our graduate students are supported through teaching assistantships. To be eligible, you need to satisfy the above and also have either:

  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited US institution
  • A score of at least 26 on the speaking section of the TOEFL iBT or 7.5 on the speaking section of the IELTS.

If you have a score of 23-25 on the speaking section of the TOEFL, then if you are admitted, you may take the VERSANT test after you arrive. With a sufficiently high score, you are qualified to teach. Otherwise, you will be required to enroll in and pass English 105.

Submit your application online

Apply through the UW Graduate School website  Application for Graduate Admission . The online application will ask you to select a program to apply to, and allow you to save your progress and complete the application over multiple sessions. Do not mail application materials to the department. Please disregard any instructions stating otherwise in the UW application. Please upload PDF files only.

All materials (including transcripts) should be submitted using the Graduate School online application.  A complete application consists of:

  • Online application and payment of $85 non-refundable application fee (or $75 for Graduate Non-Matriculated applications, subject to change without notice). Go here for The Graduate School FAQ for application fee waivers.
  • Online submission of Statement of Purpose
  • Submission of official TOEFL score (most international applicants * ) (institution code 4854) 
  • Online submission of three letters of recommendation **
  • Online submission of Personal Statement***
  • Online submission of unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
  • Online submission of resume/vitae
  • Optional: online submission of GRE Advanced Mathematics Subject Test score
  • Optional: online submission of  Assistantship & Fellowship application  (PDF document), if financial assistantship is desired

Applicants will be required to submit official transcripts once admitted; do not mail them until requested.

If you have further questions, the  Stat admissions FAQ  may be of help, or your questions may be answered below.

  Commitment to Diversity  

The Department of Statistics believes diversity is integral to the well-being of our programs in particular and the field of statistics in general.

We welcome applicants with varied cultural and personal experiences, from varying socio-economic and academic backgrounds, and of differing racial identities, ages, gender identities and sexual orientations.

We are committed to providing a well-rounded education that combines academic rigor with hands-on training in a supportive, socially responsible and inclusive environment that offers access and opportunity for all.

Personal Statement

The personal statement is an optional opportunity to provide context about your experiences as they relate to diversity, inclusion, and equity. We encourage all applicants to submit a personal statement of up to one page in length so that the admissions committee may get to know you better as a person. This statement can discuss your experience(s) as an individual from a traditionally underrepresented group in higher education; your perspective on issues related to diversity, inclusion, and equity; or any topics related to these themes. The personal statement can also include a description of how your experiences have affected your academic career and trajectory, your experience with higher education, your career plans, and/or your research interests.

If there is anything in your application you wish to explain further, the personal statement is a place to do this.

While admission decisions are predominantly based on an applicant’s academic performance, the personal statement provides a context for the rest of your application. This information may also be used in aggregate to report to funding agencies and in applications for funding opportunities for eligible students.

Please note that the personal statement is not required.

Deadline: All PhD application materials for the graduate school and the department must be received by December 1.

Official Transcripts

International Applicants

When you receive notification that you have been recommended for admission by your graduate program, you must then submit official transcripts and additional application materials to the Graduate School.  Please refer to the Official Transcript Requirements page for details.

Domestic Applicants

When you accept your formal offer of admission, you must then provide an official final degree transcript to the Graduate School.  Please refer to the Official Transcript Requirements page for details.

English Language Requirements

All international and immigrant status applicants-including transfer applicants-whose native language is not English are required by the Graduate School to take the  Test of English as a Foreign Language  (TOEFL). For more information on English language requirements, please see the  Graduate School's Memorandum No. 8.  Almost all of our graduate students are supported through teaching assistantships. To be eligible, you need to satisfy the above and also have either:

  • A score of at least 26 on the speaking section of the TOEFL-iBT or 7.5 on the speaking section of the IELTS.

The following are exempt from taking the TOEFL:

  • applicants who hold either a bachelor's, masters or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or from an institution in Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, or the United Kingdom. While enrolled at the degree-granting school, the student must be in residence on campus.
  • applicants who can provide documentation verifying that their undergraduate degree is from an institution (in a country other than those listed above) where all instruction is in English.

For all others, a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is required. Test scores are valid for two years and must be valid on the date the application is submitted. 

does university of washington require personal statement

University of Washington

  • Cost & scholarships
  • Essay prompt

Want to see your chances of admission at University of Washington?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

University of Washington’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Personal statement essay.

Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.

Diversity Short Response

Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the University of Washington.

Additional Info Short Response

Additional information about yourself or your circumstances You are not required to write anything in this section, but feel free to include additional information if something has particular significance to you. For example, you may use this space if: You have experienced personal hardships in obtaining your education Your activities have been limited because of work or family obligations Unusual limitations or opportunities unique to the schools you attended

UW Honors Short Response

We want to understand your desire to learn new things and to push your education outside of the areas of learning that you are most familiar with.

Tell us why this type of learning interests you and which subjects you’re excited to explore in college.

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

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Application FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions regarding application to SPH programs.

In 2022, the University of Washington School of Public Health joined the Schools of Public Health Application System (S.O.P.H.A.S.)  with our six unique MPH programs: Environmental Health Sciences, Epidemiology, Global Health, Health Systems and Population Health, Nutritional Sciences, and Public Health Genetics. SOPHAS is a one-stop-shop for all things admissions and applications, and you can apply to as many programs as you like.

IMPORTANT: Currently, only our MPH programs are in SOPHAS. If you are interested in any of our MS, MHA, or PhD degrees, you will contact that program directly.

MPH Application Process

Congratulations! You have decided to apply for admission to the University of Washington School of Public Health. You can easily apply online through the SOPHAS portal.

Step 1: Find a Program of Interest Review each available MPH degree to determine the one best for you.

Step 2: Know Your Deadlines Dates and deadlines will help you stay on top of submitting all important application materials. UWSPH MPH applications open on September 1.

Step 3: Know Your Application Requirements Application requirements vary, but in general you will need to submit: a statement of purpose, personal history statement, equity, justice and anti-racism statement, resume/CV, and official transcripts. Your department, program, or degree track will also require additional materials.

Step 4: Apply Online To begin your application, go to sophas.org. As you proceed through the SOPHAS application, you will also be instructed to complete the UW Graduate School online application. It is a dual process.

Know Your Deadlines

Knowing your program's deadlines will help you submit all required materials in a timely manner. Our SOPHAS MPH program all open on  September 1. However, a few of the Close Dates differ. All deadlines are listed below:

Environmental Health Sciences : December 1, 2024

Epidemiology : December 1, 2024

Global Health : December 1, 2024

Health Systems & Population Health

  • General Track: December 1, 2024
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences: December 1, 2024
  • Health Systems and Policy: December 1, 2024
  • Community-Oriented Public Health Practice: January 15, 2025
  • Online MPH: January 15, 2025

Nutritional Sciences: December 1, 2024

Public Health Genetics:  January 29, 2025

1. Why do I need to complete two different applications to apply to the UW SPH? 

a. For applicants applying to start an MPH program in autumn 2024, an application must be submitted to both SOPHAS and the UW Graduate School. The Schools of Public Health Application System (SOPHAS) is used by most of the top SPH in the nation, which the UW has now joined. Most application materials will be submitted to SOPHAS. As a public university, however, UW must adhere to state law re: student and applicant records, meaning our Graduate School is also required to have an application for every applicant via our MyGrad application system 

2. Why do I have to pay two fees?  

a. SOPHAS and MyGrad both require an application fee; applicants must apply to both for their application to be considered. 

3. How do I apply for a fee waiver?

• SOPHAS: Please visit the fee assistance program website for details. We recommend submitting requests at the earliest possible convenience.

• UW: Please visit the application fee waiver website for details. 

4. What questions can I expect to answer in SOPHAS?  

a. SOPHAS contains four quadrants of questions. The first three quadrants, which include your personal information, academic history, and supporting information, will only be entered once, with the information submitted to every school/program an applicant chooses to apply to. The fourth quadrant is specific to each university. At UW, there will be a series of questions for all UW MPH applicants to answer. In addition, the specific program to which you are applying will have questions for you to answer. 

5. What questions can I expect to answer in MyGrad? 

a. Most application materials, information, and questions will be completed in SOPHAS. The University of Washington Graduate School application (MyGrad) is comprised only of information the UW is required by state law to collect. 

b. Additionally, non-native English speakers will be asked how they will fulfill the English proficiency requirements and will need to submit documentation to MyGrad. Review UW Graduate School English language proficiency requirements for additional information. Note: minimum requirements for individual programs may be higher than what is required by the UW Graduate School. 

6. How does the Personal History Statement differ from the Statement of Purpose? 

a. The Personal History Statement focuses on who you are as an individual and how experiences in your life have led you to pursue a Master in Public Health. The Statement of Purpose aims to understand your professional and academic background and why you wish to attend UW. 

7. Why do you include a question about equity, justice, and anti-racism?  

a. The work of equity, diversity and inclusion is the work of public health. The UW SPH is committed to a future that is free of health inequities, that promotes the highest level of wellness for the communities we serve, and a diverse and inclusive public health workforce that embodies humility, respect, leadership, and service on behalf of, and with, the diverse communities we are privileged to serve. It is an expectation that students entering our community understand equity, justice and anti-racism issues and it is important that prospective students demonstrate this during the admissions process. Please visit our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion page to learn more. 

8. Can I apply to more than one MPH program? 

a. Yes. Applicants can apply to as many MPH programs at UW as they wish. Each program will require its own SOPHAS application, MyGrad application, and all applicable and associated fees. 

9. I want to apply to a program at the UW School of Public Health, but I don’t see it in SOPHAS. Why don’t I see it listed? How to I apply for it? 

a. Right now, only the MPH programs at the School of Public Health are in SOPHAS. If you are planning to apply for a different program, please visit contact the department or program directly, Programs | UW School of Public Health (washington.edu). Admissions for non-MPH degrees will occur via MyGrad .

10. When will I find out an admissions decision?

a. You will want to inquire to the department or program in which you applied. Each program could have a different notification timeline.

11. Where can I apply for funding or scholarships?

a. After you submit your application for admission, you can contact the department or program for any funding opportunities that are available. You can also view available funding in the Office of the Dean via Student and Academic Services at this link:https://sph.washington.edu/students/sph-scholarships-and-funding

12. How will I know if all of my application materials were successfully submitted?

a. In the SOPHAS application, you can view the status of all submitted materials, including transcripts. In the UW Graduate School application, you will get a confirmation email once all required information is submitted.

Application

This page outlines general requirements and provides a checklist of specific materials that must be included with your application.

Available for 2024 Pre-Application Review Services for PhD applicants in Biostatistics and Statistics at UW

Preparing your application to our PhD program? Take advantage of our Pre-Application Review Service available to PhD applicants applying to either UW Statistics or UW Biostatistics. The service provides support and mentorship from current students.   Get details

General Requirements

We must receive all application materials by the deadline to consider you.

Applications for the MS Thesis and PhD programs are due December 1. MS Capstone applications are due January 15. We admit for autumn quarter only. All required materials, including official test scores and minimum three recommendation letters, must be received by the deadline in order for the application to be considered. Please begin your application early, allowing for enough time for your test scores and letters to be received. We begin reviewing applications immediately after the deadline. Note an $90 application fee is required to submit your application. A limited number of financial need-based fee waivers are available for U.S. citizens and permanent residents only. See details at the  UW Graduate School website .

Submit finalized documents, and track receipt of test scores and letters

You may submit your application after you have uploaded all required finalized documents, and before or after official test scores and recommendation letters are received. Once you submit the application, you cannot make any updates to your application materials except for your applicant profile and designated recommenders. Make sure that your statement of purpose, personal statement, CV, and transcripts are final versions. We cannot make changes to these documents for you.

After submitting your application, you are responsible for checking your application status page to track receipt of test scores and recommendation letters. It will take several business days for the system to link your official test scores with your submitted application.

Note, the UW is closed on the fourth Thursday in November (U.S. Thanksgiving Day holiday) and also the following day.  If you submit your application during this time, you may not see a status update until the following Wednesday. In addition, the UW Graduate School is very busy near the December 1 deadline for MS Thesis and PhD applications and might not be able to provide assistance for any issues that arise during that time. Please plan ahead.

Submit your application online

Apply through the UW Graduate School website . The online application will ask you to select a program to apply to, and allow you to save your progress and complete your application over multiple sessions. Do not mail application materials to the department. Please disregard any instructions stating otherwise in the UW application. Please upload PDF files only.

Only apply to one UW Biostatistics program

As an applicant to the UW Graduate School, you may apply to multiple department programs at the University of Washington. However, for the Department of Biostatistics programs, you must choose a single program—either the MS Capstone, MS Thesis, or PhD. Please choose the one best suited to your goals.

Applicants to our PhD program are not automatically considered for the Master of Science (MS). On occasion, when we have many highly qualified PhD applicants, a few of these applicants may be offered admission to the MS due to limited space and funding, but this is rare. Please note that we are unable to accept petitions from denied PhD applicants to be reconsidered for the MS program.

Applicants to our MS program who designate "doctoral” as the ultimate degree goal may be considered for both programs, but will be considered primarily for admission to the MS program.

Only submit required materials

We do not accept supplemental materials such as publications, certificates, etc.  You may wish to mention such achievements in your CV, but these materials should not be included in your application. 

Required Materials

Submit the following required materials with your application. Carefully review instructions for each item as you complete your application. 

Unofficial transcripts

Statement of purpose, personal statement (optional).

Curriculum Vitae (CV) / resume

Test scores

Three letters of recommendation, application fee.

Include all prior institutions attended and upload unofficial transcripts onto the online application. Applicants will be required to submit official transcripts once admitted; do not mail them until requested.

For information on GPA calculations for the reported GPA, see the Graduate School website . However, you may estimate your GPA and it does not need to be precise; we will look closely at your course grades on your transcripts instead and view your institution's grading scale.

Verify that all uploaded transcripts are legible (course titles and grades can be read). If you have trouble uploading a large file, try the following:

  • In Adobe Acrobat, Save as Other , and save the file as a Reduced Size PDF .
  • Use a PDF compressor tool available online.
  • Scan the transcript as a document and not an image.
  • Scan in black and white.
  • Scan each transcript as a separate file.

International students: Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by an official English translation. See the Graduate School website for details. We do not accept evaluations from the WES credentialing service; however, we will accept WES certified English translations of transcripts only if the report states that the translator is fluent in the native language (e.g., fluent in Chinese if the transcript is in Chinese).

Regarding autumn grades: We do not accept updated transcripts after the application deadline. If we need to see grades for any courses you are taking in the autumn, we will follow up with you. If you are in the process of completing a prerequisite, make sure that the transcript you upload indicates this (or mention it in your statement of purpose).

Submit a 1-2 page statement which includes your reasons for pursuing graduate studies in the field of biostatistics and at our program specifically, your area(s) of interest, relevant experience, and goals.

A personal statement is optional but strongly recommended. Consistent with our goal of enhancing the intellectual excellence of the department and University of Washington community, we actively welcome students from diverse backgrounds and students who have worked with diverse groups. We encourage all applicants to submit a personal statement (maximum 1 page) that details experiences related to your socioeconomically disadvantaged, disability-related, and/or culturally varied background, and/or experiences working with such groups. The statement should address the ways your experiences have affected the development of your intellectual interests, career plans, future goals, and how you may have overcome various obstacles or aided others in surmounting such challenges.

While admission decisions are made mainly on the basis of academic performance, applications will be reviewed with consideration of the applicant's background and experiences. We also use the information in such statements to report aggregate data to funding agencies and to apply for funding opportunities for eligible students.

The personal statement is not required, and you may include a simple sentence such as "I have not yet had these kinds of diverse experiences." Such a statement does not negatively affect your chances for admission.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)/resume

Your CV/resume should include all relevant academic and professional experience such as degrees, research experience, publications, posters, presentations, awards, and skills.

Report GRE/TOEFL scores to UW institution code 4854. There is no department code. For the optional GRE, you may use 5199 ("all other departments"), and for the TOEFL, you may use 99 ("any department not listed"), but it does not matter what you enter as long as the institution code is correct.

Tests must be taken in time for the scores to arrive by the deadline (at least 18 days prior- - it takes ETS 10-15 days to deliver scores after the test date, and the UW Graduate School 1-2 business days to link scores to your application). Please plan for potential delays and take the tests well in advance.

If you took a test multiple times, we will review all scores that you choose to report.

If you are applying to multiple programs at UW and entered a department code, your test scores will be matched with all applications, including your UW Biostatistics application.

If you sent your test scores to the University of Washington in a previous year, you do not need to resend them if they are still valid. If the scores were sent for another program's application, they can also still be used and the system will link them to your new application.

If you do not have scores for any reason, simply leave the self-report field blank. If you are an international student who is exempt from the TOEFL requirement due to having a degree from a U.S./English-based institution or other reason, disregard any application status note indicating that the scores are missing or incomplete. You should select your reason for exemption under question 10 of the first application page "Indicate how you intend to satisfy the English Language proficiency requirement."

In the online application, submit the names and contact information for a minimum of three recommenders (maximum five). The system will then immediately email them a request to complete a letter of recommendation and an online evaluation by the application deadline. The message will direct them to the online system where they can choose to submit the letter online (by typing directly or uploading a file) or mail the letter to us.

Recommendations should be written by individuals who can speak to your academic, professional, and/or personal strengths, and potential to succeed as a biostatistics graduate student.

Contact your recommenders prior to submitting their information online so they can expect the email request, and verify that they have received it; occasionally some email systems may block the email or treat it as spam. If for any reason a recommender does not receive the email, withdraw the request and resubmit it with an alternate email address such as their personal address.

Please encourage your recommenders to submit the letter online. Mailing hard copy letters may delay the processing of your application.

Since recommenders need to complete an evaluation along with their letter, the application system cannot accept letters from recommendation letter services such as Interfolio.

All letters must be received by the application deadline. Recommenders can submit their letters both before or after you submit your application. Allow ample time for the letters to be completed.

An $90 application fee is required to submit your application. A limited number of financial need-based fee waivers are available for U.S. citizens and Permanent Residents only. See details at the UW Graduate School website .

  • Student Life
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  • Application Dates & Deadlines

How to Apply

  • Admissions Requirements
  • Advanced Coursework
  • Running Start Students
  • Homeschool Students
  • Admission Requirements
  • Transfer Planning Worksheets
  • Transfer Credit Policies
  • First-year International Students
  • Transfer/Post-Baccalaureate International Students
  • Veteran Students
  • Other Student Types
  • English Language Proficiency
  • Application Review
  • I Applied. Now What?
  • Costs & Aid
  • Virtual Campus Tour
  • First-year admitted students
  • Transfer admitted students
  • Post-baccalaureate admitted students

We are excited that you are interested in the University of Washington Bothell and thinking about joining our Husky family! If at any time you have questions during the application process, please feel free to contact us by email at uwb [email protected] or at 425.352.5000.

Application checklist

Tips for transferring.

  • What you need to fill out your application
  • Personal statement prompts and tips

✓  Find the application deadline for the quarter and major you are applying for

Depending on the quarter and major you are applying for, there may be different priority dates for application submission.

Review major application deadlines.

✓  Confirm you meet our academic requirements for admission

What requirements you need to fulfill (College Academic Distribution Requirements or University core subject requirements) depends on how many credits you have completed at the time of application.

Review transfer admissions requirements.

✓  Review our transfer credit policies

The Office of Admissions reserves the right to accept or reject credits earned at other institutions of higher education.

Review transfer credit policies.

✓  Use our transfer planning worksheets to help plan your path to transferring

Transfer planning worksheets will help you plan your course of study prior to transferring to UW Bothell.

View the transfer planning worksheets.

✓  Prepare your personal statement

You will be required to submit a personal statement. See the personal statement prompt below for more information.

✓  Order your transcripts for submission

You will need a copy of your official transcripts from each college or university attended and your official high school transcripts (if you have less than 40 transferable credits or completed the University Core Requirements during high school.) You can find more information about transcripts on our FAQ webpage .

✓  Fill out and submit your CollegeNet application

To apply to UW Bothell as a transfer student, you will submit an application through CollegeNet. Simply go to the link below and select “Transfer” to get started.

Start your UW Bothell Transfer application.

Plan ahead!

Meet with a UW Bothell admissions counselor and utilize the resources on our transfer planning webpages to prepare for your transfer as early as possible! Understand basic transfer requirements, and specific requirements for your intended major, so you know exactly what you need to do each quarter to be ready to transfer on schedule.

Schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor.

Meet all deadlines!

Be aware of all the deadlines that apply to programs, degrees, and services you are interested in. Your community college will have deadlines for graduation, financial aid and scholarships, as well as other programs and services that may be very different than UW Bothell’s deadlines.

View major application deadlines by quarter.

Be informed!

Read all the UW Bothell transfer student resources and guides, as well as everything you can about your intended major.

  • Transfer credit policies
  • Transfer planning worksheets
  • UW Bothell degree listing
  • Personal statement prompts

What you need to apply as a transfer student

Be sure you have the following items before you start your CollegeNet application online:

  • Personal Information: Name, date of birth, permanent and mailing address, email address, phone number, residency and citizenship information, parent/guardian information, income and household size.
  • Educational Information: High school name, graduation date, college or university names, including dates attended.
  • Official College Transcripts: We require official transcripts from each college or university attended. Transcripts must be submitted in the original sealed envelope or sent directly from the college electronically in order to be considered official. More information can be found on the Transcripts page .
  • High School Transcripts (if applicable): Required for transfer students with less than 40 transferrable college credits or who completed University Core Subject Requirements (World Languages and/or Intermediate Algebra) during high school. Unofficial high school transcripts may be used for applying to UW Bothell. If admitted, you must submit official high school transcripts. In order for transcripts to be considered official, they must be submitted in the original sealed envelope or be sent directly from your high school electronically. More information can be found on the Transcripts section of the FAQ webpage .
  • For students with confirmed financial hardship, the University of Washington Bothell can provide a waiver of the application fee. You may request an application fee waiver within the online application on the payment method page. The family income section must be completed prior to requesting an application fee waiver.

International students must also submit:

  • Official Credit Evaluation: For post-secondary education completed outside of the United States, we require official transcripts be evaluated by an approved agency. All evaluations must be completed with official documents sent directly to the evaluation company from the institution. For more information, visit our Transfer Credit Policies page .
  • English Language Proficiency (if applicable): All applicants for whom English is a non-native language must provide proof of English proficiency. This includes international students and domestic students who completed most of their primary and secondary school outside the U.S. Please review your options for meeting the English Language Proficiency requirement .

Personal Statement

All transfer applicants must write a personal statement and submit it with their application for admission. The personal statement should be a comprehensive narrative essay outlining significant aspects of your academic and personal history, particularly those that provide context for your academic achievements and educational choices. Both the quality of writing and depth of content contribute toward a meaningful and relevant personal statement.

Your personal statement should be limited to 650 words, and it can be submitted with your application in the following ways:

  • Online: Write your statement first in a word processing program (such as Word) or a text editor, and then copy and paste it into the text box provided in the online application. All line breaks will remain. Some formatting may be lost, however, such as bold, italics and underlines, but this will not affect the evaluation of your application.
  • Attach File: Type your statement as stated above, and save it in one of our acceptable file formats (.pdf, .doc, .rtf or .txt) to upload as an attachment to your application. Include your name and the words “Personal Statement” as a heading for each page of your attached document.

Personal Statement prompts

Prompt for majors (other than those listed below) and undeclared major applicants

For majors other than those listed in the “Prompts for specific majors” below, and for undeclared major applicants, please use the following prompt: What is your intended major, and how did your interest in this subject evolve? Describe any relevant experience you have had in the field (employment, internships, military service, volunteer work, campus or civic activities, etc.) and what you have gained from your involvement. How will UW Bothell prepare you for your future endeavors?

Prompts for specific majors

If you are applying to any of the following majors, please download the prompts, as found on the application, here:

  • Business Administration (Bothell and Bellevue)
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science & Software Engineering and Applied Computing
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Health Studies
  • Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Nursing (RN to BSN)

University of Washington Essay Prompts 2022-2023

University of washington essay prompts quick facts :.

  • University of Washington acceptance rate: 53%— U.S. News ranks the University of Washington as a more selective school.
  • 1 (~650 word) essay
  • 1 (~300 word) short response
  • 1 (~200 word) additional information essay (optional)
  • University of Washington application: The University of Washington accepts applications via the Common App or ApplyWeb . The University of Washington Common App essay is not considered in the admissions process. Make sure to check all of the University of Washington application requirements. 
  • University of Washington essay tip: Every UW application essay is important when it comes to impressing the UW admissions committee. Make sure to give each UW essay prompt your careful attention, no matter the word count. 

What are the University of Washington essay prompts?

You’ve completed the tedious work of finding your top colleges to apply to and now you’re working on your UW essay prompts. Before you start worrying about the college enrollment process, let’s break down each UW essay prompt so you can begin writing your UW application essays! 

There are three UW essay prompts .

Remember that UW admissions doesn’t consider the Common App essay in their writing section. Two of the UW essay prompts are required and one UW essay prompt is optional. While the University of Washington acceptance rate may not seem so intimidating compared to other colleges , your UW essay prompt responses can still make or break your application. 

We have provided all three UW essay prompts for the 2022-2023 University of Washington supplemental essays below. You’ll find a breakdown of how to approach each of the University of Washington essay prompts as well as tips for writing UW application essays that will stand out.

Importantly, the University of Washington does not review your Common App essay. Although the University of Washington Common App essay isn’t considered in the University of Washington admissions process (it won’t factor into your odds against the University of Washington acceptance rate), the Common App personal essay is still important in other universities’ application process. Check out all you need to know about writing a personal essay for the other schools that made your college list . 

University of Washington Essay Prompts #1 ( Required )

Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it (650 words)..

Of all the University of Washington essay prompts, this one is the longest and the most open-ended. This UW application essay should focus on some part of your character: the qualities that determine how you move through the world. In this UW application essay, try to highlight who you are, what you value, and who you’d be on UW’s campus.

Identify your values

To begin your brainstorm for the first of the University of Washington essay prompts, write out your values. List any qualities you care about— honesty, compassion, curiosity, etc. For each characteristic, think of a moment that taught you something about this quality and a moment it was tested. For example, if your characteristic was honesty, you might think about a time when you lied and the consequences of your actions. Or, maybe you think of a moment where you had to choose between lying and being honest.

If you’re not sure which characteristic to highlight for this University of Washington essay, start by brainstorming potential stories. Try to think of a time when you were proud of yourself, when you were challenged, or when you learned a lesson.

You can also check out this list of personal achievements and characteristics from the University of Washington admissions page for ideas of what to discuss in this UW application essay.

Focus on action

Whatever story you tell in this UW application essay, make sure your experience involves you making a decision or taking action. A story with a conflict and resolution will make your essay more engaging . Once you have settled on your topic, without second-guessing yourself, write out what happened and, more importantly, what you got out of the situation. 

A great way to make sure you’ve answered this UW essay prompt is to have another person read your essay without reading the prompt. Then, ask what they learned about you from your essay. If they learned something about your character, then chances are you’ve successfully responded to the question. Then, you can move onto the other University of Washington essay prompts.

University of Washington Essay Prompts #2 ( Required )

Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the uw (300 words)..

The second of the required University of Washington essay prompts revolves around community and how it creates unique perspectives. Because the UW essay prompts are quite general, brainstorm before you pick a topic. You’re likely part of many intersecting communities, so start by listing all the communities you belong to. Communities can be as big as a globally practiced religion or as small as a friendship group based on Dungeons and Dragons, so don’t leave anything out.

Focus on impact

Once you have your list for the second of the University of Washington essay prompts, think about how these communities impact your life. Remember, diversity is not just based on categories of identity; it also comes from differences in how we view and experience the world. For each community, do two free-writes : one detailing the important characteristics, beliefs, and events shared within that community and one detailing how that community impacts how you move through the world.

The UW essay prompt then asks you to imagine how you might add to the diversity of UW. Maybe you want to join a specific student group. Alternatively, you might even propose to start a new one. Maybe you want to bring your point of view into a field of study where it’s not typically included. For each community on your list, brainstorm how it would impact your time at UW.

Once you’ve done your brainstorm for this UW application essay, string your ideas together. If you’re having trouble organizing your thoughts, stick to the outline provided by the University of Washington essay prompts. Use the questions “what is your world,” “how are you a product of it,” and “how will you add to the diversity of UW” as guiding questions for the beginning, middle, and end of your University of Washington essay.

University of Washington Essay Prompts #3 ( Optional )

Additional information about yourself or your circumstances (200 words)..

This UW essay prompt is optional. The University of Washington application requirements don’t call for a response to this UW essay prompt. However, you may include additional information if something has particular significance to you and you’d like to share that information with the University of Washington admissions. 

Often, prompts listed as “optional” are still essentially required if you want to be a competitive applicant. This is not the case with the final UW essay prompt. If you don’t have any extenuating circumstances, feel free to disregard this University of Washington essay prompt. 

You may want to answer this optional UW application essay if:

  • You have experienced personal hardships in attaining your education.
  • Your activities have been limited because of work or family obligations.
  • You have experienced unusual limitations or opportunities unique to the schools you attended.

Of all the University of Washington essay prompts, this one lets you fill in potential gaps in your University of Washington application due to various circumstances. If you have had to overcome challenges to get where you are today, the University of Washington admissions committee wants to hear about it.

Although this is the shortest of the University of Washington essay prompts, it is important you still craft a story and directly connect your experiences to your University of Washington application. For example, if you had to start working at a young age to support your family, be sure to include why it is important for the UW admissions team to know. Maybe you didn’t have time for extracurriculars , or maybe you had to make extra efforts to stay on top of your homework. 

Mention how you’ve grown

You should also make sure you include what the experience means to you if responding to this UW application essay. For instance, maybe your hardships taught you to be more responsible, or maybe you learned how to ask for help when you need it. If you choose to respond to this last of the University of Washington essay prompts, make sure your reader knows why you chose to include it. As with your other two University of Washington supplemental essays, remember to be brief, specific, and honest.

How do I write my University of Washington essays?

To make your essays count, remember to consider your audience. Your responses to the University of Washington essay prompts should convey who you are, how you’d succeed at UW, and what you might bring to UW’s campus. Are you a first generation college student? Did you take a meaningful gap year ? This is your opportunity to show what makes you unique. Remember that your responses to each UW essay prompt shouldn’t read like your college resume . Give each UW essay prompt response some personality and passion . 

Take time with the University of Washington essay prompts, and give the same amount of consideration to each UW application essay. While one of the University of Washington essay prompts is shorter than the other, that doesn’t mean it will be easier to write. Each UW application essay should be clear, concise, and captivating. It should also completely answer the University of Washington essay prompts. 

Follow the checklist below to be sure that you answer the University of Washington prompts to the best of your ability. 

UW Essay Prompts Checklist:

✔️ brainstorm.

Before you begin writing, create a list of topics related to the University of Washington essay prompts. Use the breakdowns of the University of Washington essay prompts above to help you get started.

Once you’ve chosen a topic for each of the University of Washington essay prompts, it is time to get writing. Don’t worry about making your first draft perfect—it doesn’t need to be! Don’t think about things like the University of Washington acceptance rate; just focus on getting your story down on paper

Ask yourself: does my UW application essay specifically answer the UW essay prompt? Am I telling a story? Is there a clear beginning, middle, and end? Does my essay show who I am? Because each UW essay prompt has a specific word limit, it’s important to make every word count.

✔️ Proofread

Read through each essay for any spelling or grammatical errors. The University of Washington admissions team will review thousands of responses to the University of Washington essay prompts, and we want your University of Washington essays to stand out for the right reasons. Make sure your responses to the UW essay prompts are as clear and easy to read so your personality can shine.

✔️ Get a second opinion

Have someone else—a family member, mentor, even a peer—read your essay. A second pair of eyes will notice how your UW essays read, whether your story flows, and how well you’ve addressed the UW essay prompts.

✔️ Repeat steps 3-4 until you are satisfied with your UW essay prompts

Remember, the writing process is a process. Give yourself enough time ahead of the deadline to think about the UW essay prompts. Draft each UW application essay, take a step away, and come back to them with fresh eyes.

After working through the checklist above, evaluate your progress. Keep reworking your responses to the University of Washington essay prompts until you can confidently say that the following statements are true:

  • My UW essays tell a story with a beginning, middle, and end.
  • Each of my essays answers the UW essay prompt.
  • All of my UW essays emphasize who I am and what is important to me.
  • My UW essays have no spelling or grammatical errors.

Does the University of Washington care about essays?

Yes! As the University of Washington acceptance rate tells us, not everyone gets into UW. Figuring out how to get into UW will be difficult without placing importance on the UW essay prompts. The University of Washington application essays are UW Admissions’ way of learning who you are as a person. 

The University of Washington admissions office uses a holistic review process. This means they consider your UW essays and extracurriculars alongside your academics. So, your responses to the University of Washington essay prompts are a vital part of your University of Washington application requirements. 

Specifically, UW breaks down their review into two categories: Preparation & Performance and Personal Achievements & Characteristics. While the first depends on your grades and courses, your University of Washington supplemental essays are the perfect place to emphasize the second. UW looks for students who will both succeed academically and contribute to campus life. Your UW application essays should capture who you are and how you will shine at UW. Each of the University of Washington essay prompts lets you share different aspects of what matters to you.

University of Washington Admissions Top Tips for Supplemental Essays

While Seattle may not be the stereotypical “college town,” the city certainly has a lot to offer. If you’re set on UW, which is a top ranking university globally, then we know you want to do everything you can to make your responses to the UW essay prompts stand out. 

To save you time as you begin working on your UW essays, we’ve provided the top ten tips from the University of Washington admissions for writing the UW essays below. We’ve also included tips on how to apply them to your University of Washington supplemental essays.

“Write to the prompt.”

Your University of Washington essays will only be successful if they completely answer the University of Washington essay prompts. Be sure to use our breakdowns of the University of Washington essay prompts, and keep each UW essay prompt in mind when editing your drafts.

“Avoid overused topics.”

Be thorough as you brainstorm topics for each of the UW essay prompts. If you read the UW essay prompts and choose to write about a common experience, use specific details in your UW application essays that show what makes your experience unique.

“Use language you can manage.”

When in doubt, always lean towards simple and straightforward language in your University of Washington essays. Your University of Washington application essays should be written in your voice. Don’t try to sound more intelligent as you respond to the UW essay prompts. Authenticity is key. 

“Keep it simple and real.”

Often, the little things in life have the biggest impact. As you brainstorm topics for your UW application essays, don’t feel pressured to construct the most complicated story. Remember, the University of Washington admissions office wants to be impressed by you! Just be yourself and show them exactly who you are when responding to the University of Washington essay prompts.

“Use humor, honesty, and humility.”

Respond to the UW essay prompts in your own voice. If you have a humorous voice, let that shine through, but only use humor if it feels natural. No matter your writing style, all of your University of Washington essays should be honest and authentic. If you choose to write about your accomplishments , try to do so without bragging or showing off.

“Make it memorable.”

Your University of Washington supplemental essays will be memorable if you are passionate about the story you are telling. Don’t worry about whether the UW admissions team will find your story interesting—if your UW application essays are honest, specific, and exciting to you, they’ll be exciting to read.

“Find the sweet spot.”

Each of the University of Washington essay prompts has a specific word count. While your UW application essays should not be over the word count, it isn’t a bad thing if they are under. For example, if you can tell your story in 400 words, don’t add fluff to reach the 650-word limit. Just be sure your responses to the University of Washington essay prompts are specific and detailed enough to paint a complete picture for your reader.

“Proofread.”

The last thing you want UW admissions thinking about as they finish reading your UW application essays is a typo. Make sure to double-check your responses to the University of Washington essay prompts for spelling and grammar. Try to complete your University of Washington essays ahead of the deadline so you can give yourself a few days away from each of your UW application essays before your final proofread. 

“Punctuate properly.”

Punctuation can change the entire meaning of a sentence, so it’s important you punctuate your University of Washington essays correctly. Try highlighting all your commas, periods, etc., and reading your responses to the University of Washington essay prompts out loud. If someone is helping you edit your UW essays, ask them to do a read-through specifically looking at punctuation.

“Write a punchy first line.”

While it is important your University of Washington essays have a strong opening, don’t let this tip trap you into trying to be overly funny or clever. Your UW application essays thrive on specificity, so write an opening line suited to your specific story and voice.

UW Essay Prompts: Final Thoughts

Remember, the University of Washington essay prompts are your chance to introduce yourself to UW admissions. While the University of Washington acceptance rate is not the highest, strong essays can make all the difference. 

Although your academic history is an important part of your University of Washington application requirements, your UW application essays let UW see who you are beyond numbers and statistics. If you feel your GPA or test scores don’t reflect the kind of student you are or hope to become, your University of Washington essays are the place to showcase your best self. And with so many universities deciding to go test-optiona l, your essays are of utmost importance when it comes to maximizing your odds against the University of Washington acceptance rate. 

Each essay is an opportunity

Think of each UW application essay as an opportunity to overcome the University of Washington acceptance rate and impress the University of Washington admissions. Write each UW application essay thoughtfully, passionately, and comprehensively. Each UW essay prompt response should be not only moving, but also mechanically impeccable. 

While the University of Washington essay prompts may seem like a challenge, remember you have complete control over your UW essays. The strength of your responses to each UW essay prompt relies entirely on how much time, effort, and care you put into them. Start thinking about the UW essay prompts early so you can make your essays the best they can be.

This University of Washington supplemental essays guide was written by Sarah Kaminski . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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UW School of Law

  • School of Law

J.D. Admissions

J.d. admissions first-year applicants.

To be considered for admissions, applicants must follow the application instructions, register with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) and Credential Assembly Service (CAS), take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and demonstrate that they have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. or Canadian university or the foreign equivalent whose program has been deemed comparable to that of a four-year baccalaureate degree, prior to registering for the first academic quarter at UW Law.

Application Deadlines

  • Oct. 1 — Applications open for incoming first-year students
  • Nov. 15 — Early Decision Program application deadline
  • Nov. 15 —  Alternative Admissions Program — Law Dawg Pathways application deadline (redacted LSAT)
  • Dec. 31 — Alternative Admissions Program — Law Dawg Pathways  application deadline (no LSAT)
  • Jan. 15 — Application deadline for the  Gates Public Service Law Scholarship , which includes both the JD application and the Gates Public Service Law Scholarship application. Please note that you must have an LSAT score on file in order to proceed with the selection process. The last LSAT accepted for consideration is the January 2024 administration.
  • March 15 — Priority application deadline for incoming first-year students 

These deadlines are non-negotiable.

Admissions Policy

The law school faculty has adopted the following policy regarding admission to UW Law:

The primary goal of the University of Washington School of Law admissions process is to enroll students who demonstrate outstanding academic and professional promise and whose background and experience will contribute beneficially to the learning environment of the law school. As the state’s public law school, we have a responsibility to educate lawyers who will serve the legal needs of all members of society, through the practice of law, the formulation of public policy and other law-related activities. Our admissions policy is designed to identify individuals who will help fulfill this responsibility.

In measuring academic potential, we evaluate candidates holistically, balancing multiple considerations in selecting a cohort of students for each incoming class. No single factor is dispositive for admission, including GPA and standardized test scores. Factors we consider include but are not limited to: the rigor of the applicant’s undergraduate curriculum; the nature and attainment of an advanced degree; the applicant’s pre- and post-college experience as it relates to the applicant’s academic and professional potential; the quality and strength of recommendations which address the applicant’s academic and professional potential; variations in the level of academic achievement over time; any other indicators that may aid in the determination of academic and professional potential. Additionally, we encourage law students to identify any aspects of their backgrounds that would benefit the diversity of the law school community and the legal field as a whole.

Scholarship Opportunities

We invite admitted students to request scholarship consideration through our Scholarship Consideration Form, conveniently located on the admitted student portal. By completing this single form, students are considered for awards from over 70 generous donor-funded scholarships. Admitted students have 30 days from the date of their admission to submit the form. Our scholarship committee takes a holistic approach in evaluating students for scholarships, considering factors such as merit, financial need, and other personal achievements. Most students will hear back within 30 days of form submission. Students who do not submit a Scholarship Consideration Form will not be considered for law school scholarships. We encourage you to submit your form upon admission and unlock the support that’s waiting for you!

Additional scholarship opportunities are available to second- and third-year students. These awards recognize excellence in leadership, academic performance, and specialized areas such as family law, corporate law, intellectual property, public service, and diversity.

Nondiscrimination Policy

UW Law provides for a selective admission process with the objective of attracting students who demonstrate the strongest prospects for high quality academic work. This selective admission process shall assure that the University's educational opportunities shall be open to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability or veteran status. The process of admission shall be mindful of the need for diversity in the student body and for highly-trained individuals from all segments of the population. For more information, please visit the UW Policy Directory,  Executive Order No. 31 .

Applicant Responsibility and Accuracy of Information

Applicants are under a continued obligation to notify the law school immediately of any and all circumstances and events that may occur from the date an application is submitted to the first day of enrollment that may change any of the responses to their application. UW Law reserves the right to rescind an offer of admission if the candidate fails to maintain satisfactory scholastic standing for work in progress, if final records fail to show completion of courses and/or degrees required for admission or if the admission decision was based on incomplete, inaccurate or misleading information furnished by the applicant. In addition, the law school may also report its findings to LSAC's Misconduct and Irregularities Committee.

Character and Moral Fitness

Applicants who have been convicted of a felony or other serious crime are eligible for admission into the law school; however, because state bar associations often prohibit persons with criminal records from being admitted to the bar regardless of their degrees or training, it may be impossible for such individuals to practice in some states. In addition to the bar examination, there are character, fitness and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction. Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners .

Application Fee Waiver

The application fee will be waived for the following candidates. Please provide documentation for the following criteria:

  • Candidates who have received an LSAC fee waiver (the UW Law application fee should automatically appear as $0 at LSAC checkout).
  • Current or former members of Teach for America, Peace Corps, or AmeriCorps (upon request).
  • Individuals who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. military (upon request).
  • Attendees at various UW Law recruiting events (in-person and virtual) as well as third-party recruiting events, ex. LSAC Forums, individual school fairs, etc.

Some candidates may receive a merit-based fee waiver based upon data from LSAC’s Candidate Referral Service (CRS). These candidates will be notified by email if they have been assigned a fee waiver.

To request an application fee waiver based on the criteria above, please email   lawadm@ uw .edu  with your LSAC account number and the reason for your waiver request.

If you have already paid the application fee, no refunds of fees paid will be processed.

Application Instructions

An application is complete and ready for evaluation when the following items are received:

Application — Applicants may submit the application through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) .

$60 Application Fee — The application fee will be collected through LSAC. (See waiver information above.)

Personal Statement — The University of Washington School of Law aspires to be the best public law school in the nation and one of the world's most respected centers for interdisciplinary legal studies. Advancing access to justice, facilitating a fair and thriving global marketplace and fostering an environment of inclusivity and equity is integral to who we are.

The primary goal of the admissions process is to enroll students who strive to be leaders; demonstrate outstanding academic, professional and leadership promise; are committed to generous public service and ethical advocacy; and who have background and experiences that will enhance the diversity of the student body, thereby enriching the law school educational environment. As such, applicants are invited to write a personal statement that describes their potential contributions to our vibrant community.

Please limit your response to 700 words .

Applicants may include the following factors in their personal statement or the optional supplemental statement: perseverance against substantial obstacles; social or economic disadvantage; family or personal adversity; social hardships; disability; prejudice or discrimination; leadership potential; studying or living abroad; foreign language skills; special talents; unique life experiences; or geographic diversity.

(Optional) Supplemental Statement — Applicants may supplement their personal statement by including a response to one (1) of the following optional questions: (a) why are you interested in pursuing a legal education at the University of Washington; (b) what life events or experiences have had the greatest influence in shaping your character and why; or (c) if you were asked to create a non profit organization, what would be the organization, its mission and its purpose?

Please limit your response to 500 words .

Résumé — Please provide a résumé detailing any significant vocational, non-vocational, extracurricular or community activities, volunteer work, honors, awards, any service in the Armed Forces, job descriptions and major areas of responsibility along with dates of employment (mm/yyyy) and the number of hours per week devoted to such activities, publications or other information that you believe the University of Washington School of Law should consider in evaluating your application. Also please include details as to any foreign language proficiencies you possess, including the level of ability with regard to speaking, comprehension, reading and writing.

Your résumé may not exceed three (3) typewritten pages .

Credential Assembly Service Report — The Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report will include: (1) the applicant's transcript(s) from each institution of higher education prior to obtaining your bachelor's degree; (2) Law School Admission Test (LSAT) score(s): and (3) any letter(s) of recommendation. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that LSAC has received all necessary materials to complete the CAS file. You are advised to confirm that your CAS file is complete; LSAC will not send the law school a CAS report until then.

Letters of Recommendation — Two (2) Letters of Recommendation are required and must be submitted through LSAC's Letter of Recommendation Service. The strongest recommendations are those submitted by a professor who knows an applicant's work well and can give a well-substantiated assessment of their academic potential. For applicants who have been out of school for some time, professional recommendations are appropriate.

Please note : all records become part of the official file. They will not be returned or duplicated.

  • Meet the J.D. Team
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Office Hours Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. lawadm@ uw .edu (206) 543-4078

Address 231 William H. Gates Hall 4293 Memorial Way NE Seattle, WA 98195 

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does university of washington require personal statement

How to Write the University of Washington Essays 2024-2025

The University of Washington has 2 essay prompts, plus an optional one and an additional one for Honors College applicants. The first one is a personal statement-style prompt, as UW does not require you to submit the main Common App essay, and the second is about how your communities have shaped you. The Honors College question asks you to discuss your excitement about learning.

While we normally encourage you to write optional essays, this one is asking about exceptional circumstances, so you should only respond unless you actually have something relevant to share.

Read these University of Washington essay examples written by real students to inspire your writing!

University of Washington Essay Prompts

All applicants.

Prompt 1: Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it. (650 words)

Prompt 2: Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the University of Washington. (300 words)

Prompt 3 (optional): You are not required to write anything in this section, but you may include additional information if something has particular significance to you. For example, you may use this space if:

You have experienced personal hardships in attaining your education

Your activities have been limited because of work or family obligations, you have experienced unusual limitations or opportunities unique to the schools you attended. (200 words), uw interdisciplinary honors program applicants, we want to understand your enthusiasm for learning unfamiliar things and exploring different ways of thinking. tell us why you are excited to push your education outside the areas of learning you are most comfortable with. (450 words), all applicants, prompt 1, tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it. (650 words), understanding the prompt.

This essay is similar to the personal statement you may have already written for other colleges, but UW actually does not require the submission of the Common App essay, and instead has their own prompt. If you are planning on also submitting the Common App essay, take care that the information you share here is not redundant with what you wrote about there.

In terms of topic, you can write about nearly anything. The admissions committee wants to learn about your inner qualities through a specific experience or story. That could be a moment of growth, a decision that reflects your values, or an instance where you demonstrated important traits like resilience, empathy, leadership, or adaptability.

At 650 words, you have enough space to share a rich, detailed narrative. However, avoid trying to cram in two unrelated stories, or cover too many themes. Instead, focus on one clear, cohesive experience, and dive deeply into it. Your goal is to show, through storytelling, how this experience either revealed or shaped a key part of who you are.

Brainstorming Questions

To find the right story, ask yourself:

  • What is a moment in my life where I was challenged, and how did I respond?
  • Is there an experience that shaped how I see the world or approach problems?
  • When have I had to make a difficult decision that required me to reflect on my values?
  • What’s a moment where I helped someone, stood up for something, or took a risk?
  • When have I learned something important about myself or the world around me?

Try to come up with a list of 10-15 possibilities. Even if you’re drawn to one story right away, having options allows you to choose the one that’s truly the best fit for this prompt. Plus, thinking through different experiences can help you start to identify common themes throughout your growth, which you could highlight in this essay.

What Makes a Good Response

A strong response will:

  • Focus on one specific experience that highlights an important aspect of your character. The whole essay doesn’t have to revolve around a single moment, but if you include different anecdotes, the connections between them should be obvious.
  • Show growth or insight , to illustrate how the experience helped shape your broader worldview or approach to life.
  • Engage the reader with vivid storytelling , by using descriptive language to make your narrative come alive.
  • Reveal self-awareness , through thoughtful reflections on what you learned or how you changed.
  • Connect the story to your present and future , so that UW admissions officers can see how the experience continues to influence who you are and what you hope to achieve at UW.

Hypothetical Student Examples

Here are three examples of hypothetical students and how they could approach this essay:

  • Kaitlyn, an aspiring journalist : Kaitlyn could write about an experience where she reported on a sensitive local issue in her high school newspaper, and ended up facing backlash from some students and faculty. She could then reflect on her commitment to truth, the ethical dilemmas she faced, and how this experience shaped her passion for investigative journalism.
  • Daniel, a first-generation student interested in medicine : Daniel could share a story about helping his mother navigate a complex healthcare system when she fell ill. He could discuss the frustrations and obstacles they encountered and how this experience inspired his desire to become a doctor focused on patient advocacy.
  • Aaliyah, a dancer and choreographer : Aaliyah could recount an experience where her team was preparing for a major competition, but a key dancer was injured just days before. She stepped up to re-choreograph the routine, which taught her leadership, adaptability, creativity, and resilience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Being too general : Don’t try to cover multiple experiences or traits in one essay. Admissions officers aren’t expecting you to tell your whole life story in 650 words, and trying will likely cause your essay to feel scattered. Instead, focus on one story in depth, to immerse your readers in one cohesive narrative.
  • Overloading on achievements : The point of this essay is to demonstrate your character, not to list accomplishments. Be sure the essay focuses on the story’s emotional impact and your personal growth, not your more objective achievements that admissions officers can already see in other parts of your application, like your transcript.
  • Cliché topics without a unique angle : Avoid overdone topics like a sports victory or a volunteer trip unless you can provide a truly fresh perspective that is highly personal and not predictable.
  • Lack of reflection : Don’t just tell the story—explain why it matters for understanding what kind of UW student you’d be. Reflect on how it shaped you, what it taught you, and how it will continue to guide you moving forward.

Excerpts of Good and Bad Examples

Good Example (shows vivid storytelling, clear character development, and insightful reflection):

“The clatter of pans echoed through our small kitchen, but the dinner we were about to serve didn’t match the chaos. I carefully plated the tamales, as my mom directed me in Spanish, her words cutting through the steam from the stove. This wasn’t just any dinner—it was a meal for the Lopez family, who had recently lost everything in a house fire. 

My mom had volunteered our family to help, and for the first time, I realized how much work goes into preparing a meal for someone in crisis. After I worked side by side with my mom, it was worth it when I saw the relief in Mrs. Lopez’s eyes as we handed her the trays of food.

That night, my mom explained why she always helped others, even when we didn’t have much to spare. ‘When you give,’ she said, ‘you make the world feel a little lighter for someone.’ Her words stuck with me, and over the next few years, I started to see small ways I could make others’ lives easier—whether that was tutoring classmates, organizing a school drive for a local shelter, or just listening to a friend in need.

Preparing tamales that night shaped my commitment to service. It wasn’t about grand gestures; it was about consistency and kindness. Now, as I apply to college, I want to pursue a career in social work, to make sure others feel the same kind of support that my mom showed the Lopez family that night.”

Why this works : This essay uses vivid imagery to tell a specific, personal story. The writer clearly connects the experience to their overall character, through a thoughtful reflection on how it shaped their values and future goals. The story is engaging, meaningful, and authentic.

Bad Example (feels generic and lacks depth):

“Throughout my life, I’ve always been a hard worker. I’ve faced many challenges, but I always push through because I’m determined to succeed. One example of this was when I had to juggle school and work last year. It was really difficult to manage my time, but I learned that I’m good at prioritizing and staying organized. These traits will help me succeed in college because I know how to manage my responsibilities effectively. I’m proud of my ability to work hard and stay committed, no matter what comes my way.”

Why this doesn’t work : This essay is vague and tells instead of shows. It doesn’t include a specific story or example, and the reflection is shallow. There’s no emotional depth or insight into the writer’s character beyond a basic statement about being hardworking, which doesn’t do anything to set them apart from the thousands of other applicants to UW.

In Conclusion

By choosing a personal, meaningful story and reflecting on how it shaped you, you will create an essay that gives UW’s admissions committee a strong sense of who you are, what you value, and how you’d contribute to their campus community in a way nobody else can.

All Applicants, Prompt 2

Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the university of washington. (300 words).

This question serves two purposes: it gives UW an opportunity to learn more about how you developed your values, and it allows them to consider how you might interact with others on campus. It is easy to get mired in focusing on describing your community, but remember, UW wants to learn about you through seeing how your community impacted you.

Use a description of your community to frame your essay, but always remind yourself to connect the story back to how it changed you. Once you have framed the essay with a description of who you have become as a result of your community’s impact, be sure to extend this thread to your potential future influence on UW.

There are several ways to interpret community. You could interpret it in the literal sense by explaining how your hometown and family have guided your ambitions. For example, maybe growing up on your family’s farm inspired your appreciation for agriculture and working with your hands. You hope to share this appreciation with other students by working on the UW farm and organizing workshops where students can learn how to plant their own flowers or herbs.

Or, perhaps the community you want to highlight is less conventional, such as the coffeeshop you work at. You could discuss how your coworkers are from all walks of life, and how you’ve befriended a retired older couple that picks up weekend shifts. They offer you advice based on their many life experiences, showing you the importance of having an older mentor. This makes you want to join the Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter at UW.

Regardless of what your community is, be sure to highlight how you’ll contribute to UW’s diversity, whether that’s through your perspective, actions, ideas, cultural traditions, etc.

All Applicants, Prompt 3 (optional)

You are not required to write anything in this section, but you may include additional information if something has particular significance to you. for example, you may use this space if:.

This portion of the application is optional, and while we recommend that you fill out most “optional” essays, this space is truly optional. If you don’t have any unusual circumstances, you can leave it blank without penalty. If feel that the parameters apply to you, you should fill this section out.

This is your chance to explain anything that hasn’t been addressed in other parts of your application. Since the maximum is 200 words and the prompt is straightforward, you can (and should) also be totally straightforward in your response, rather than painting a picture with vivid imagery. 

For the first prompt, an example of a response could be:

“In my sophomore year of high school, my dad was diagnosed with cancer, and it profoundly affected multiple areas of my life, including my academic performance. For that reason, there is a significant dip in my grades in the spring semester of that year.”

For the second:

“Because my parents own a small restaurant, it is often my responsibility to watch my younger siblings while they are working, and even help out by doing the dishes or bussing tables in my free time. For that reason, I was unable to join as many extracurriculars as my after school time went towards helping ensure the family restaurant was running smoothly.” 

For the last prompt, you can briefly state school-related limitations or opportunities, like if your school did not have an AP or IB program, or if it did have a special internship program that you participated in but haven’t had room to mention elsewhere.

This prompt asks you to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and willingness to challenge yourself academically. The admissions committee is looking for students who are excited to engage with diverse subjects and new ways of thinking—students who thrive when stepping outside their academic comfort zones, and thus will take full advantage of the unique opportunities at UW’s Honors College.

This essay is almost the opposite of the traditional “Why Major?” question , in that you’re being asked not what you’re currently most passionate about, but why you’re eager to engage with topics that are unfamiliar or outside your main areas of expertise. This prompt aims to uncover:

  • Your desire to be intellectually challenged.
  • Your openness to interdisciplinary learning and diverse perspectives.
  • Your motivation to pursue a holistic, well-rounded education in the Honors Program.

To get started, consider the following:

  • What subjects or areas of knowledge have you encountered that initially felt unfamiliar or difficult, but eventually sparked your curiosity?
  • Have you ever taken a class, participated in an extracurricular activity, or read about a topic that was outside your usual interests, but that you felt a connection to anyways and ultimately changed the way you think?
  • What excites you about learning in general? Why do you believe in the importance of exploring topics beyond your comfort zone?
  • How do you handle the challenge of learning something new? What strategies or mindsets do you adopt?
  • Why do you want to be in the Honors Program, specifically? How will it help you push the boundaries of your education?

A good response to this prompt will:

  • Highlight your intellectual curiosity : Show genuine excitement for learning and discovery, especially when stepping into unknown or challenging territory.
  • Show openness to new perspectives : Describe how going outside your comfort zone can broaden your thinking and understanding of the world.
  • Be specific : Provide examples of past experiences where you encountered new topics, ideas, or ways of thinking that challenged or excited you.
  • Reflect on personal growth : Explain how exploring unfamiliar areas has helped you grow as a learner, thinker, and overall person.
  • Connect to the Honors Program : Mention specific aspects of the UW Honors Program (such as interdisciplinary learning or Honors Study Abroad Programs) that will support your desire to push your educational boundaries.
  • Samantha, an aspiring computer scientist with a passion for ethics: Samantha could write about how she first learned about ethics in a biology class when talking about testing on animals. At first, the abstract discussions felt unrelated to her coding skills, but soon she realized the ethical questions were directly relevant to issues like AI development. This experience sparked her interest in exploring how technology intersects with moral and philosophical dilemmas, and she’s eager to take advantage of the Honors Experiential Learning opportunities at one of Seattle’s many tech startups to see how these ideas play out in the real world.
  • Jacob, a biology student also interested in public policy: Jacob could describe a time when he joined a student group focused on climate change advocacy. He was used to thinking about environmental issues through a scientific lens, but this group introduced him to the legal and political challenges of addressing climate change. He could reflect on how stepping outside the lab and into the world of public policy made him realize the importance of interdisciplinary thinking in solving global problems, and how he will take advantage of the Honors Program’s Partners in the Parks initiative, where students spend a week at a National Park learning about research and management issues, to learn even more about how to develop comprehensive, data-driven solutions to climate change.
  • Alex, a visual artist curious about data science: Alex could talk about how, during a museum internship, they encountered data visualization for the first time, in an exhibition quantifying lives lost during various wars. They had always viewed art and numbers as opposites, but seeing data used to tell stories and convey beauty opened Alex’s mind to the potential of merging creativity with analytics. They’re excited about the Honors Program’s study abroad opportunities, like the program “Art and Activism in the Nordic Region,” because they want to learn more about how art can be used to drive concrete change.
  • Focusing too much on your current comfort zone: This essay is about stepping outside of what you know well, so avoid spending too much time discussing your established academic strengths and interests.
  • Writing generically about curiosity: Avoid vague statements about loving to learn or enjoying challenges without backing them up with specific examples. Be as detailed as possible about a time when you actually encountered something new and unfamiliar.
  • Neglecting the Honors Program: Be sure to tie your essay to specific opportunities in the UW Honors Program that will help you explore new ideas and disciplines. Note that the examples above go beyond just the Honors Program being interdisciplinary, and instead build a concrete bridge to specific opportunities that will allow them to explore their particular interests.
  • Overloading on achievements: Don’t turn this essay into a résumé. Instead, focus on your intellectual growth and what excites you about venturing into new academic territories. Your response should complement, not repeat, the information found in your transcript.

Good and Bad Examples

Good Example (highlights the student’s intellectual curiosity and includes a specific experience that shows how stepping outside their comfort zone led to growth):

“As someone who has spent most of my high school years immersed in STEM, enrolling in a creative writing class last year felt like diving into the deep end of unfamiliar waters. I signed up on a whim, hoping to add some variety to my schedule, but I soon realized just how uncomfortable I was when I couldn’t rely on formulas or equations to find a ‘correct’ answer. Instead, I had to navigate the ambiguity of fiction, where the strength of an idea came not from its accuracy, but from its emotional resonance.

I struggled at first, feeling out of place among students who seemed more naturally inclined toward literary expression. However, as we studied authors like Gabriel García Márquez and Virginia Woolf, I began to appreciate how stories could explore human experience in ways that science alone couldn’t. 

One assignment required us to write a short story based on an emotion we’d never personally experienced, and I chose grief—a daunting task. I spent hours researching the psychology of loss, reading memoirs, and watching interviews with survivors of tragedies. Immersing myself in the grief of others showed me the power of emotion alone to communicate lessons that empirical data alone cannot.

In the Honors Program, I’m eager to push my boundaries even further by enrolling in classes that challenge me to think outside of the scientific framework I’m most comfortable with. ‘HONORS 210 D: Aristotle’s Concept of The Tragic in Theory and Practice’ would be a fantastic opportunity for me to continue my exploration of grief through philosophy, a field I’ve never explored, and ‘HONORS 220 A: Storytelling in the Sciences’ would give me guidance on how to bring some of the lessons I’ve learned from the humanities back to my STEM work.

My experience in my creative writing class taught me that knowledge from one discipline alone is incomplete. In college, I look forward to continue opening doors that I previously would have never even knocked on, as there’s no telling how what lies behind them could shape my understanding of the world.”

Why this works : The essay tells a specific story about an academic challenge, and the student clearly explains how the experience pushed them out of their comfort zone. The reflection is thoughtful, and the connection to the Honors Program is clear.

Bad Example (lacks depth and concrete examples, and feels generic as a result):

“I have always loved learning new things and exploring unfamiliar areas of knowledge. Ever since I was young, I’ve been curious about the world and excited by the prospect of discovering new information. Whether it’s science, history, or literature, I enjoy learning different perspectives and pushing myself to think in new ways. 

I believe that true intellectual growth comes from stepping outside of what you know and being open to ideas that challenge you. That’s why I’m excited about the University of Washington Honors Program—it will allow me to learn across disciplines and push my education to new heights.”

Why this doesn’t work : This essay is too vague and doesn’t provide specific examples of the student stepping outside their comfort zone. The language is generic, the reflection lacks depth or personal insight, and the motivation for pursuing the Honors Program is impersonal. Essentially, the student simply states they like learning–which will be true of anyone applying to this program–without showing how they’ve engaged with unfamiliar subjects in the past, or what specifically they’re hoping to get out of this program at UW.

By selecting a specific example of when you’ve explored unfamiliar areas and reflecting on what you learned from the experience, you can craft a strong, engaging essay that demonstrates your intellectual curiosity and readiness for the challenges of the University of Washington Honors Program.

Where to Get Your University of Washington Essays Edited For Free

Do you want feedback on your UW essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

Need feedback faster? Get a  free, nearly-instantaneous essay review  from Sage, our AI tutor and advisor. Sage will rate your essay, give you suggestions for improvement, and summarize what admissions officers would take away from your writing. Use these tools to improve your chances of acceptance to your dream school!

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Main Content

You are required to complete a Personal Statement as part of your application. This is a critical part of your application, both for admission and scholarship consideration. Content, as well as the form, spelling, grammar, and punctuation will be considered. When you write your personal statement, tell us about the aspects of your life that are not apparent from your academic record.

Personal statement

Freshman applicants will choose one of the following prompts (400-600 words):

1.) Tell us a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.

2.) Describe a time when you made a meaningful contribution to others in which the greater good was your focus. Discuss the challenges and rewards of making your contribution.

3.) An essay topic of your choice. If you have written another admissions essay that captures what you want the UW Tacoma Admissions Committee to know about, feel free to share it with us. Be sure to include the topic or question you answered. 

Transfer applicants are asked to address the following writing prompt:

Describe how personal, professional or educational experiences have shaped your academic, career and/or personal goals. How will UW Tacoma help you attain these goals? (650 words)

Other comments (optional)

If there is anything else you think we should know, you can include that in the "Other Comments" section of the application.

Tips for Success

  • Tell us who you are. We encourage you to share those aspects of your life that are not apparent from your transcripts. Be concise, but tell the whole story even if you need a little more space. All of the information you provide in your application and statement will remain confidential.
  • Be specific. Personal Statements too often include sentences such as "I've always wanted to be a Husky" or "My whole family attended the UW." Though this may be important to you personally, such statements are not particularly valuable to the Admissions staff. Why? Because they don't tell us anything distinctive about your experiences and ultimate goals.
  • You are a college student. Your Personal Statement should reflect the experience and maturity of someone who has already attended college. It should reflect your understanding of the components of an undergraduate education, such as general education and the major. We want to read how your academic and personal experience to date fits into your academic, career and personal goals and how UW Tacoma can help you attain these goals.

Write your statement first in a word processing program (such as Word). Then copy/paste your work into the application text box.

Here are some tips on  how to write a great college essay .

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Standard Admission

Foster is consistently ranked as the best public business school in the Northwest and admission to the undergraduate program of the Foster School of Business is capacity-constrained. We encourage all who meet the minimum application requirements to apply. We accept applications for autumn and winter quarters. Students admitted for the autumn quarter have the option to enroll for summer quarter. We only count credits from non-UW institutions that are transferable to UW.

The Foster School is currently not accepting post-baccalaureate applications.

Information Sessions

A counselor will present a 30-minute group session on standard admission and then be available for questions. This session covers all aspects of the undergraduate program in the Foster School, primarily focusing on admission to the program and the various specializations within the degree.

Autumn 2024 Information Session

October 3 (PDT), November 7, December 5 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM (PST) in person at Founders Hall 293 October 17 (PDT), November 21, December 19 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM (PST) on Zoom

Winter 2025 Information Session

January 9, February 13, March 13, March 20: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM (PST) in-person at Founders Hall 590 January 23, February 27, March 27: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM (PST) on Zoom

Before You Apply

Important deadlines.

All other applicants must submit two applications: one to Foster and one to the UW Office of Admissions . Check the UW Admissions website for application deadlines and requirements.

UW-Bothell and UW-Tacoma students are considered transfer applicants. Please see the “Transfer & Running Start Freshman Applicants” section below.

Please note that UW Admissions operates on a different timeline than Foster.

Eligibility

  • a total of at least 60 numerically graded college credits from UW and/or other accredited colleges and universities. (Examples of credits that are not numerically graded include AP, IB, and A-Level credits)
  • a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA for all college credits , including transfer credits. Because UW does not allow forgiveness for repeated courses, GPAs are recalculated with repeated courses included.
  • all business course credits, including transfer credits
  • all UW credits
  • all UW business course (prefix courses include: ACCTG, BA, BCMU, MGMT, MKTG, QMETH, etc.) credits
  • Minimum score to have application considered: 3
  • Highest valid score is automatically paired to your application.
  • Completed the required prerequisite courses.

Reporting your Grade Point Average Convert letter grades to numeric grades using the following chart (For AP, A-Level, or IB courses, do not submit a grade):

COVID-19 Admissions Notice

COVID-19 Notice / S Grades

Due to the impact on COVID-19 on higher education institutions, UW has designated the following Extraordinary Circumstances Quarters (ECQ): Spring 2020, Summer 2020, Autumn 2020, Winter 2021, Spring 2021, Summer 2021, and Winter 2022.

The Foster School of Business has adapted its undergraduate admissions policy for pre-application and pre-admission courses where an S grade was earned at the University of Washington during an EQC. The list of pre-application and pre-admission courses is available in the “Prerequisite Courses & Admission Criteria” dropdown section below.

Pre-application courses: At least two (2) of your pre-application courses must have a numerical grade (4.0 scale). Other pre-application courses that were taken during an ECQ with S grades will not negatively affect an applicant’s admission to Foster.

Pre-admission courses: Pre-admission courses that were taken during an ECQ with S grades are acceptable for admission to Foster. Any pre-admission courses that are taken during an ECQ with S grades will not negatively affect an applicant’s admission to Foster.

Non-ECQ quarters: NS grades will not be sufficient for admission to Foster. S grades from non-ECQ quarters will not be accepted for pre-application, pre-admission or BA degree requirements.

Transfer students who have questions about a course’s grade during a similar designation at their institution should contact [email protected] .

If you have any other questions, please email [email protected] .

Application Requirements

Apply online.

To create your online application profile, click the “Apply to the Undergraduate Program” button at the bottom of this page.

Current UW-Seattle, UW-Bothell, UW-Tacoma students, and Returning Applicants: Log in with your UW NetID authentication.

All other applicants must submit two applications: one to Foster and one to the UW Office of Admissions. Check the UW Admissions website for application deadlines and requirements. If you do not already have a UW NetID, you will be able to create one after completing your UW-Seattle Admissions application.

UW-Bothell and UW-Tacoma students are considered transfer applicants. Transfer and Running Start applicants must submit two applications. Please see the “Transfer & Running Start Freshman Applicants” section below for more info.

*You will receive communication via the UW email system. Make sure emails from [email protected] will not get sent to your spam/junkmail folder.

Prerequisite Courses & Admission Criteria

Completion deadlines for prerequisite courses.

The chart below presents a quick picture of the courses required before application and, if admitted, those required before entering the program. Course numbers are for courses offered at UW Seattle, but equivalent courses will be considered.

Pre-application courses must be completed and graded before the application deadline. (April 5 for autumn/summer or October 5 for winter.)

Pre-admission courses can be in progress while you’re applying, but must be completed by the last day of spring quarter for autumn admission and by the last day of the autumn quarter for winter admission.

  • We will also accept MATH 125, MATH 126, MATH 134, or Q SCI 291 for calculus.
  • We will accept any UW designated “C” course. The UW does not accept AP credit to satisfy the English Composition requirement, even if your transfer institution did.
  • If transferring from a college where the fundamentals of accounting are taught in a 3-part series, you must complete the first two courses before the application deadline and the third course by the pre-admission deadline.
  • Applicants may take either micro- or macroeconomics before applying, but they must complete both by the pre-admission deadline.
  • If you attend a school where an equivalent course is not taught, contact our office for advice.
  • We will also accept STAT 311, STAT 390, PSYCH 317 & PSYCH 318, Q SCI 381, MATH 390, IND E 315. Statistics courses from other institutions with a pre-calculus pre-requisite will be evaluated on a case by case basis at the time of application. Note: STAT 220 (or other previously accepted statistics course that does not meet the above requirements) no longer accepted for admission unless course was completed prior to winter 2018. Transfer applicants please see the “Notes for Transfer and Freshman Applicants” section below.

Application Review Criteria

Our goal is to admit a student body that is diverse, contains multiple perspectives and experiences, and is academically rigorous. Consideration is given to such factors as cultural experiences, significantly higher recent grades, exceptional extracurricular activities or leadership experience and the effect of personal disadvantage on earlier education.

Each year, approximately 30-50% of applicants—between 550 and 650—are admitted. For all applicants, index scores are created from three admissions factors: Combined GPA, Pre-application GPA, and Writing Skills Assessment. These factors are standardized and assigned the following weights.

We review all applicants together (current and returning UW, transfer, international transfer, and running start) and only use current standing for post-admission demographic data.

Writing Skills Assessment (WSA)

All standard admissions applicants to the Foster School must take the Writing Skills Assessment (WSA) administered through the Foster School.

In the assessment session, students are given 90 minutes to plan and respond to two prompts. One prompt is based on a short workplace scenario (the persuasion task) and one is based on an assertion (the position task). The WSA must be completed prior to the application deadline and we only allow one assessment per cycle.

A University of Washington NetID is required to register for the WSA. You should only have a single UW NetID.

If you don’t already have a UW NetID and…

  • You’re taking the WSA soon (one quarter or less before applying to Foster): You will be able to create a NetID after completing your UW-Seattle Admissions application.
  • You’re taking the WSA early (multiple quarters before applying to UW/Foster): You can request a sponsored NetID to take the assessment. The same NetID will be used for your UW-Seattle Admissions application.

Register for the WSA Information about the WSA

Personal Statement

Your personal statement provides you the opportunity to discuss aspects of your life that may not be apparent in the rest of your application materials. You’ll have three boxes and space for 6,000 total characters, including spaces. A common misconception is that you must answer all three prompts. You are not required to answer all prompts; you may choose to focus on the prompts you have the most to talk about or you could choose to answer all three prompts. The most important thing to understand about the personal statement prompts is that they cannot hurt you in any way, they can only help.

Prompt Tips:

  • Be specific; when providing examples of when, how long, and what you learned/gained from your experience.
  • Be concise, direct and truthful.
  • Avoid broad statements such as “I’ve always wanted to attend the Foster School because I want a business degree.” It is a legitimate comment but does not tell us anything distinctive about you.
  • When describing your experiences, don’t assume the reader has had your same experiences or shares your perspective. Keep in mind that what you write in the application is used for admission purposes only.
  • Be thoughtful about your response.
  • Give yourself ample time to write and rewrite your responses. Ensure you are properly using the word limit to effectively express what you are trying to convey.
  • It is not necessary to have two spaces after each period, since extra spacing counts towards your allotted word count. Copying and pasting from a Word document can detract from your total word count. We recommend writing directly into the application itself, however it is wise to save a copy of each essay before hitting submit.

Essay 1: The Foster School’s goal is to admit students who are prepared to be academically successful. We understand that students sometimes face challenges in achieving their academic goals. Please describe any extenuating circumstances that have impacted your higher education experience.

  • Please only address time periods in which you received college credit – this may include times in which you received college credit while in high school (i.e., dual enrollment, running start).
  • This is your opportunity to explain why you didn’t do well in a particular class or over a particular period of time.
  • Examples could include but are not limited to being a first generation student*, health issues, financial challenges, cultural barriers, and/or community resistance to education.

Essay 2: The Purpose of the Foster School is to develop leaders who strive to better humanity through business. How do you plan to leverage your experiences to advance Foster’s Purpose?

  • Include how your own cultural awareness has shaped your desire to have an impact as a future business leader.
  • Please focus on your own experiences and perspective.

Essay 3: Please describe any significant additional responsibilities you have had (or continue to have) outside the classroom. Explain what you learned about yourself as a result of the responsibilities.

  • Please do not use examples from high school unless you have completed high school within the past 18 months or your responsibilities from high school continue today.
  • Significant additional responsibilities might include, but are not limited to: employment, substantial volunteer roles, community engagement, student organization leadership, significant family responsibilities.

Transcripts

  • You must submit a separate unofficial transcript from each college-level institution; even if you took college-level courses in high school and/or the courses appear on your UW transcript.
  • If you have had grade changes, they must be reflected on the transcripts you submit with your application. We will not accept grade changes after the application deadline.
  • In order for transfer credits to be added to your UW record, you must also request official transcripts be sent to the Office of Admissions.

Required Format for All Transcripts The online application will require that you submit PDF copies of your unofficial transcripts from all collegiate institutions you have attended. In most cases, the easiest way to access a PDF version is to print to PDF. In some cases, you may need to get hard copies and scan them as a PDF. This may take extra time. So again, don’t wait until the last minute. Transfer Students: Please wait to submit your transcripts until grades for winter (for April 5 deadline) or spring/ summer (for October 5 deadline) are posted, unless grades post after the deadline

The following information must be on all transcripts:

  • Full name of applicant (former names are acceptable if indicated on application)
  • Name of degree-granting institution
  • Dates of enrollment
  • Names of individual courses
  • Grades, marks, or ratings of individual courses
  • International transcripts must include official English translations
  • Both marks sheets and degree statements are required, if applicable

Please note:  While official transcripts sent directly from institutions to the Office of Admission are required for the general admissions application, unofficial copies are still required for the Foster application.

Degree Plan

Applicants who have over 150 quarter credits, are planning to pursue a double degree, or Certificate of International Studies in Business (CISB) are required to submit a degree plan along with the application. The degree plan the degree planning sheet is a fillable PDF available to download below. Once completed, you will upload the degree plan directly to your application.

For those planning on a double degree, you must have your degree plan signed by the departmental adviser in the second major. The signature from the Foster School of Business adviser is not required.

Download PDF of degree plan here.

Transfer & Running Start Freshman Applicants

Important information.

Admission to the Foster School is contingent upon admission to the UW. We recommend applying to the UW and the Foster School simultaneously. Check the UW Admissions website for application deadlines, requirements, and instructions. Please note that UW Admissions operates on a different timeline than Foster:

Application Deadlines

*Students admitted for the autumn quarter have the option to enroll for summer quarter.

**Winter quarter is open to U.S. transfer students only. International transfer applicants (those who require an F-1 visa to study in the United States) can only apply to the UW for summer/autumn quarter enrollment.

Online Application & WSA Access

Read the “Apply Online” and “Writing Skills Assessment (WSA)” sections above for more information about registering with your UW NetID, starting your applications, and preparing for the WSA.

Foster Prerequisite Requirements

  • Accounting: If transferring from a college where the fundamentals of accounting are taught in a 3-part series, you must complete the first two courses before the application deadline and the third course by the pre-admission deadline.
  • English Composition: The UW does not accept AP credit to satisfy the English Composition requirement, even if your transfer institution did. And, for international applicants, the 3-5 credit course must be completed in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States, or taken at an international school where English is the language of instruction.
  • Statistics: Only QMETH 201 or STAT 311 equivalents will be accepted. STAT 220 equivalents will no longer be accepted for admission after the winter 2020 admission cycle (i.e. after completion of autumn quarter 2019). If you are at a college outside of Washington State and wish to have your course evaluated prior to applying to Foster, please submit syllabi to the Foster School early.
  • Law: If you attend a school where an equivalent course to MGMT 200 is not taught, contact our office for advice. Please note, our MGMT 200 course covers the American legal system and most international law courses are not equivalent.

Course Reporting

You will need to provide PDF copies of syllabi or proof of AP/IB/A-Level scores for ALL pre-admission and pre-application coursework, unless the course appears on the UW/Community College Transfer Equivalency Guide or you have already had the course evaluated by UW and it appears on your UW transcript as the appropriate course.

  • AP/IB/A-Level Scores: If your AP/IB/A-Level courses are not articulated on your UW transcript, you must upload your AP/IB/A-Level scores for review. Scores must contain your legal name.
  • Syllabi: Submitted syllabi must include the name of the institution, weekly/daily breakdown of topics covered, and list of all course materials (e.g. textbooks and course readers) used. Failure to submit a complete and accurate syllabus may result in denial of admission to the Foster School of Business.

Credit Restrictions and UW Residence Requirement

We only count credits from non-UW institutions that are transferable to UW. If you have questions, please consult with an academic adviser at the Foster School.

The UW Foster School of Business honors the Associate Degree Agreement for those students who have an approved associate degree from a Washington community college.

Courses taught at the freshman and sophomore levels at other colleges usually cannot be used to satisfy the School’s upper-division business requirements for graduation.

A transfer student is allowed a maximum of 90 transferable community college credit hours toward the 180 credits needed for the UW bachelor’s degree. Up to 90 credit hours of correspondence or other extension coursework may also apply to the bachelor’s degree.

  • Every student must complete 45 of the final 60 credit hours in residence at the UW. To meet the upper-division requirement for a BABA, a student must complete six of the nine upper-division core classes (including a capstone course), and 40 of the 53 required upper-division business credit hours at UW Seattle.
  • Students who have taken more than three of the nine upper-division core business courses at another institution, including UW Bothell and UW Tacoma, are generally not admitted to the UW Foster School of Business. Contact a business adviser if you have questions.

Transfer Resources

Visit the Transfer Student Information and Resources page for more about transferring, applying to Foster, resources specifically for transfer students, and how to connect with the Foster community.

Useful Tools

  • UW Transfer Equivalency Guide: Find out how courses taken at Washington state community or technical colleges will transfer to the UW.
  • MyPlan: Washington Community College students can use MyPlan to create and manage your academic plan. After signing into MyPlan, use your community college student ID number and date of birth to pull your community college courses into MyPlan.
  • UW Transfer Credit Policies: For courses offered by any other institution, read UW’s transfer credit policies.

Apply to the Undergraduate Program

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  • Faculty & Staff

Transfer application

Follow this checklist to make sure you have everything you need to submit a complete application for transfer admission.

  • Review major requirements
  • Personal statement
  • Send transcripts
  • Application fee
  • Sending test scores
  • Students impacted by disasters and emergencies

Are you interested in applying as a transfer applicant for spring quarter? Be sure to review these guidelines .

Make sure you also know what’s not considered .

1. Review major requirements

The process of applying to a major can be complex. Some UW programs require that you enroll at the UW before applying to the major, while others require a separate application in addition to the UW application. Use the MyMajor tool to determine what your major requires.

2. Personal statement

Your personal statement should be a comprehensive narrative essay outlining significant aspects of your academic and personal history, particularly those that provide context for your academic achievements and educational choices. Learn more about format, required and optional elements and tips for writing your personal statement .

3. Send transcripts

A high school transcript (if less than 40 quarter credits of transferable coursework) and official college transcripts are required components of your application file. Learn more about sending your transcripts , including what makes them official .

4. Application fee

U.s. transfer students.

The application fee is nonrefundable, and must be submitted each time you apply. It cannot be transferred to another quarter, to another campus of the UW or to another student.

  • Application fee: $80
  • Fee waivers are available for U.S. applicants (including undocumented students) with confirmed financial hardship. 

Learn more about the application fee and applying for a fee waiver .

International transfer students

  • Application fee: $90
  • Fee waivers are not granted to international applicants.

Learn more about the application fee .

5. Sending test scores

U.s. transfer students — sat/act.

The UW no longer requires SAT or ACT scores (read the  June 11, 2020 announcement for more information) for transfer applicants. Students who have taken the exams are welcome to send their scores, however, there is absolutely no advantage or disadvantage in doing so. Learn more about test scores and how to request them .

International transfer students — English proficiency

International students must submit English proficiency test scores that meet the minimum requirement for admission to the Seattle campus of the UW. SAT and ACT exams are not required for international students. Learn more about English proficiency .

6. Students impacted by disasters and emergencies

Natural disasters and emergency situations, including international conflicts, have impacted the lives of many students and their families. While entirely optional, applicants for  undergraduate admission  may share information regarding how any of these events have affected you or your family circumstances in the application for admission. Additionally, you may request assistance from an admissions counselor in this  form .

We welcome applications from prospective applicants displaced from their universities by the conflict in Gaza. For both undergraduates and graduates, students should have been previously studying in Gaza, but may living elsewhere. Both groups are encouraged to use this  form . Graduate students will be referred to departmental admission.

The online application is closed.

Things we do not consider

No interviews/demonstrated interest.

The UW does not conduct formal interviews or consider demonstrated interest in the admission decision.

No letters of recommendation

We ask that you not to send letters of recommendation or other supplemental materials such as drawings, CDs, DVDs, books or other portfolio type items. We will learn everything we need to know about you through your application and essay responses.

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Apply to the Economics Major

On this page:.

Updates & Announcements Application Requirements When to Apply Admissions: By the Numbers The Personal Statement The Holistic Review Tutoring Resources Frequently Asked Questions Information Sessions

Updates & Announcements

Autumn 2024 Admission Cycle (for 2025 Winter Quarter Admission to ECON) Updates:

The Autumn quarter registration cycle is now closed. Admissions decisions will be emailed to students on or before October 30th, in time for Winter quarter registration. Winter 2025 Admission Cycle (for 2025 Spring Quarter Admission to ECON) Updates:

The departmental application and RTW exam registration for Winter 2025 are not yet open. If you would like to be notified via email when application cycle updates are available, sign up via Microsoft Forms .

Application Requirements

The following materials and criteria are required for a complete application to the Department of Economics:

  • Eligible applicants must be accepted and be currently-enrolled UW students with 45 credits completed. For more information about admission to the UW as a first-year student or transfer student, see here .
  • Prospective Transfer Students : Please see our website detailing the Direct-to-Major Transfer Admission Pathway . Keep in mind that a numerical grade in each prerequisite course is required before applying to the Economics major. In addition, general resources regarding transferring to the UW can be found at the university's Transfer Planning Resources page. 
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Bachelor of Science
  • These courses must be completed with a standard/numerical grade. Credits earned through  Advanced Placement (AP) , International Baccalaureate (IB) , or Advanced Level (A-Level) exam scores are acceptable.
  • Prerequisite courses may not be in-progress. Courses must be completed before applying.
  • Each course may only be repeated one time each. Applicants may enter the higher of the two grades earned in a repeated course for consideration.

"Extraordinary Circumstances Quarters" Note: As UW students have been uniquely impacted by the current global pandemic, certain academic quarters have been deemed “Extraordinary Circumstances Quarters” by the Office of the University Registrar. As a result, UW students have the option to change their original/numerical grade to the “S/NS Grading Option” for these quarters, and “S” grade designations can be counted toward degree requirements. Applicants to the Department of Economics may enter-in “S” as their grade for the “prerequisite” courses, when prompted on the application form. For details on this updated policy, see here .

  • Incomplete forms will not be considered.
  • Link to Application
  • Unofficial Transcripts may be saved as a PDF from the Academics tab of your MyUW. ( See an example! )
  • Official Transcripts are not required.
  • Cumulative UW GPA must be above 2.5 to be eligible for application
  • If you need additional help accessing your UW Unofficial Transcript, click here for detailed instructions.
  • Please include a transcript from your other institution(s) in PDF format. Unofficial Transcripts are acceptable. Official transcripts are not required.
  • See the personal statement prompt below.  
  • Please see  RTW Exam website  for details.
  • We advise students to take the RTW in the same admission cycle that they are applying.
  • Students applying to switch from the Bachelor of Arts to the Bachelor of Science do not need to retake the RTW, and may have their previous RTW score considered, if preferred.
  • RTW scores will be reported directly to the Department of Economics. Students do not need to supply their RTW score on their applications.
  • Students  receiving  scores below 3 will not be admitted except in very rare/unique situations.  
  • For those planning to pursue a double major or double degree, please submit a PDF of your MyPlan, showing your quarterly plans from the quarter you are applying through graduation as accurately as possible. We understand that plans are not permanent and can change, but we want all applicants to be well-aware of their academic plans, especially in regard to the UW's  Satisfactory Progress Policies .

See here for instructions on how to create a PDF of your MyPlan.

When to Apply?

Applications are due no later than 11:59 p.m. on the second Friday of the quarter.

Applicants will be notified of their results by the end of the 6th week of that quarter/cycle, in time to register for the subsequent quarter.

You may refer to the UW Academic Calendar to identify when each quarter begins and when each "Second Friday" application deadline will be.

Admissions: By the Numbers

The Department of Economics is a  capacity-constrained  major. Meeting the basic criteria does not guarantee admission to the major.

(These GPAs are averages, not cutoffs; roughly half of the students accepted to the major in Autumn 2024, for example, had prerequisite and overall GPAs lower than 3.58 and 3.61, respectively. The admissions considerations are holistic. Please be aware that the admissions committee considers many factors when making its decisions, including cumulative GPA, prerequisite GPA, RTW score, the overall strength of the applicant’s academic background/transcript, and the quality of the applicant’s personal statement.)

*Prerequisite coursework included in this average are ECON 200, ECON 201, Statistics, and MATH 124 coursework. English Composition is omitted from this average.

**Average Overall GPA included in this average is a combined calculation of student applicants' UW GPA and any GPAs from transferred coursework.

The Personal Statement

Please submit a personal statement with your completed application. You may discuss some or all of the following that pertains to you:

  • Describe an experience where your background, identity, or interests have helped to shape your educational goals.
  • If you have faced a hardship, setback, or challenge, how did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? If the causes for the recent “extraordinary circumstances” quarters (Winter 2020, Spring 2020, Summer 2020, Autumn 2020, & Winter 2021) impacted your ability to succeed, please briefly describe.
  • If you are pursuing a double major or double degree, why are both academic programs important to you?
  • If you have previously applied to this program, what has improved since your previous application?

Maximum parameters: 

  • 1 single-sided page
  • typed & double-spaced
  • 12pt. Times New Roman font
  • 0.5” margins

See an example!

There is no word limit, but the above parameters are required. Applicants will be prompted to upload a PDF file of their Personal Statement in the Undergraduate Application Form.

The Personal Statement is an important piece of your application. Please be sure to address the prompt(s), and adhere to the parameters.

UW has plenty of resources that can help you write a great personal statement:

  • Odegaard Writing & Research Center
  • The Writing Center at The Center for Learning & Undergraduate Enrichment (CLUE)
  • The Writing Center at the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity Instructional Center (OMA/D IC)
  • Applications & Personal Statements resource page by UW Academic Support Programs

The Holistic Review (i.e. How will my application be considered?)

In reviewing each application, a broad range of factors are taken into consideration. All aspects of the application are highly-considered -- Prerequisite course grades, overall academic performance, RTW exam results, and the personal statement. Each component of the application should complement each other, and showcase a student's interests and abilities toward studying economics as they earn their UW degree. For example, if a student mentions high enthusiasm in learning economics, then that enthusiasm should also be reflected in the student's grades in economics-related coursework, as well as their result on their RTW exam, etc.

For students with credits and transcripts from other institutions, it's important for us to see a student's progress through each academic term. This is why we request for each applicant to submit a transcript for each college-level institution attended. We are aware that a "transfer credits summary" typically appears on your UW transcript. However, this does not provide us with complete information about the transfer courses taken.

This holistic approach in reviewing applications to the Department of Economics allows our program to focus beyond just a few factors, and consider the applicant as a whole.

Tutoring Resources

There are a number a tutoring resources available at the UW for courses such as ECON 200, ECON 201, introductory statistics and calculus.

  • Economics Tutoring Resources
  • Math Study Center
  • Statistics Tutor & Study Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have some questions? Please be sure to check out Frequently Asked Questions page.

Information Sessions

Interested students are also highly-encouraged to attend a Prospective Student Information Session  for an in-depth look at the application & admissions process.

The University of Washington, as a standing policy, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, disability, or status as a disabled veteran or Vietnam era veteran. Any discriminatory action can be a cause for disciplinary action. This policy applies to all University programs and facilities including, but not limited to, admissions, educational programs, and employment. Such discrimination is prohibited by Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Age discrimination in Employment Act Amendments of 1978, Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, other federal and state statutes and regulations, and university policy. Inquiries regarding the application of these laws and regulations to the University may be directed to the University’s Equal Employment Officer; to the director; Seattle Regional Office, Office for Civil Rights, US. Department of Education; or to the director, Seattle Area Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Department of Labor.
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COMMENTS

  1. Crafting a Personal Statement

    Crafting a Personal Statement. A Personal Statement is a written component of a student's application to a graduate or professional degree program that allows a student to explain their reasons for applying, and usually serves as the answer to a specific prompt that is given, such as "How will completing the _____ program at _____ college ...

  2. FAQ

    Type in " University of Washington Bothell ". Select " Mail " as the Delivery Method (Selecting "Mail" will allow us to receive your transcripts electronically). Fill in our address. Be sure to list in c/o or attn to " Office of Admissions, Box 358500 ". University of Washington Bothell. Office of Admissions, Box 358500.

  3. University of Washington Admissions Requirements

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  4. Admission Requirements

    The personal statement can also include a description of how your experiences have affected your academic career and trajectory, your experience with higher education, your career plans, and/or your research interests. If there is anything in your application you wish to explain further, the personal statement is a place to do this.

  5. University of Washington's 2023-24 Essay Prompts

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    How to Apply. Start your application. We are excited that you are interested in the University of Washington Bothell and thinking about joining our Husky family! If at any time you have questions during the application process, please feel free to contact us by email at [email protected] or at 425-352-5000. Application checklist. Important Deadlines.

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  9. How to Apply

    Prepare your personal statement. You will be required to submit a personal statement. See the personal statement prompt below for more information. ... For students with confirmed financial hardship, the University of Washington Bothell can provide a waiver of the application fee. You may request an application fee waiver within the online ...

  10. University of Washington Essay Prompts 2022-2023

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  13. How to apply

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  14. Transfer personal statement

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  16. How to Write the University of Washington Essays 2024-2025

    The University of Washington has 2 essay prompts, plus an optional one and an additional one for Honors College applicants. The first one is a personal statement-style prompt, as UW does not require you to submit the main Common App essay, and the second is about how your communities have shaped you.

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  18. Standard Admission

    A University of Washington NetID is required to register for the WSA. You should only have a single UW NetID. ... Your personal statement provides you the opportunity to discuss aspects of your life that may not be apparent in the rest of your application materials. You'll have three boxes and space for 6,000 total characters, including spaces.

  19. How to apply

    The process of applying to a major can be complex. Some UW programs require that you enroll at the UW before applying to the major, while others require a separate application in addition to the UW application. Use the MyMajor tool to determine what your major requires. 2. Personal statement.

  20. PDF Writing Personal Statements

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  21. Apply to the Economics Major

    The Department of Economics is a capacity-constrained major. Meeting the basic criteria does not guarantee admission to the major. Admission Cycle. Number of Applications Received. Number of Admitted Applicants. Percentage of Applicants Admitted. Average Prerequisite* GPA for Admits. Average Overall GPA** for Admits.