Founded in 1893, Western Washington University. is a Public college. Located in Washington, which is a city setting in Washington, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 14,592 full time undergraduate students, and 982 full time graduate students.
The Western Washington University Academic calendar runs on a Quarter basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 19:1. There are 574 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Western Washington University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
83%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
55
SAT Range
990-1220
ACT Range
23-28
Admissions at WWU are considered Less Selective, with ,100% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 27 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
89% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 55% were in the top quarter, and 23% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Western Washington University.
1%
“We”re apathetic”
6%
“We know about current events and vote”
51%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
42%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
22%
“Sometimes, but not often”
55%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
17%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
4%
“I only go out in groups”
51%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
44%
“I feel extremely safe”
71%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
23%
“We bought the gear”
6%
“We live for the big game”
1%
“It”s not really our thing”
6%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
52%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
41%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
80%
“They keep regular office hours”
18%
“They”re always available”
92%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
6%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
2%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
2%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
27%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
50%
“We only party on weekends”
21%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
2%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
38%
“There might be people who do”
46%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
13%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
1%
“We”re apathetic”
6%
“We know about current events and vote”
51%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
42%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
22%
“Sometimes, but not often”
55%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
17%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
4%
“I only go out in groups”
51%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
44%
“I feel extremely safe”
71%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
23%
“We bought the gear”
6%
“We live for the big game”
1%
“It”s not really our thing”
6%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
52%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
41%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
80%
“They keep regular office hours”
18%
“They”re always available”
92%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
6%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
2%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
227 Students rated on-campus housing 3.6 stars. 10 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
172 Students rated off-campus housing 3.9 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
245 Students rated campus food 3.1 stars. 9 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
250 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 37 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
249 Students rated class size 4 stars. 33 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
250 Students rated school activities 4.1 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
250 Students rated local services 4.4 stars. 54 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
250 Students rated academics 4.2 stars. 35 % gave the school a 5.0.
Western Washington University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Western Washington University?
112 Students rated Western Washington University
Sierra - 06/06/2024
I chose to go to WWU for a variety of reasons. First, I love Bellingham. It was the perfect size and proximity from larger cities and home (Port Angeles, WA). There is a great balance between night life, social scenes, and outdoor adventures nearby. The campus itself is the perfect distance from downtown: separated enough, but still walkable.
I chose the school for its small class sizes, lack of Greek life, and variety of majors I was interested in. It did not disappoint! Other than the most popular classes on campus (Psych 101 for example), my classes usually had about 10-30 students. It didn't feel too intimate, but I felt comfortable enough to ask questions when I needed. Since WWU doesn't offer Greek life, there was no social hierarchy or big egos on campus. Even the star athletes are some of the nicest and friendliest students to interact with. There was less pressure to party during the week than I noticed at other colleges I visited or heard about from friends. Students also had more time to participate in rec sports or clubs.
In terms of the professors/advisors/staff, everyone I interacted with was super helpful and kind. Professors hold regular office hours and answer emails in a timely manner.
I only have good things to say about WWU! Even the gloomy winters were welcome: they encouraged more studying in the library next to a cozy window.
Brandon - 12/28/2023
Embarking on my academic journey at Western Washington University has been a profoundly enriching experience, one that I am eager to articulate. The palpable warmth and affability that pervade the campus create an environment where camaraderie flourishes among students and faculty alike.
The collective friendliness of individuals on campus has not only eased my integration into the academic community but has also played a pivotal role in shaping my personal growth. From the professors who exude approachability and dedication to their craft, fostering an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity, to the amicable interactions with fellow students, the sense of community at Western is truly unparalleled.
In the crucible of academia, I have found myself not only immersed in a rigorous educational curriculum but also surrounded by a support network that values individual evolution. The diverse academic offerings, coupled with a myriad of extracurricular opportunities, have facilitated a holistic development that extends beyond the confines of the classroom.
This university has become a crucible for my intellectual and personal metamorphosis. The exposure to a vibrant academic community, coupled with the open-mindedness and friendliness that characterize interactions on campus, has significantly contributed to my personal evolution. As I navigate the corridors of knowledge, I am not merely a student; I am an integral part of a community that values both individuality and collective growth.
In summation, my tenure at Western Washington University has been more than an academic pursuit; it has been a transformative journey. The friendly and supportive atmosphere has provided the fertile ground for not just educational attainment, but for the holistic evolution of my character. I am sincerely grateful for the unique experience Western has bestowed upon me, an experience that has left an indelible mark on both my academic and personal life.
Amy - 07/21/2023
When I first got to WWU I was excited to see what it had to offer. What I should've been prepared for was the overwhelming amount of white people there were on campus. As a black person, I felt very outnumbered, and it was very difficult to find spaces where BIPOC were allowed to flourish without the influence of white people. It was a very polarizing experience, and I could really only find solace in the hiphop club, other clubs involving ethnicity (Black Student Union, African Caribbean Club, and Filipino American Student Association). I wish that there was more diversity that didn't include other subsections of "white". I do appreciate the education I got there, but the social experience really played a role in my overall impression of the school.
Alegria - 07/17/2023
I adore Western. I have had almost exclusively positive experiences regarding my academic experience here. Class sizes are small and the university population is large but not overwhelming. There is plenty to do in the evenings and on weekends; I would recommend checking out live music in the area. The physical location is ideal -- there is an arboretum directly behind campus and we overlook the ocean. On-campus housing and dining is not ideal but it's also not required! Off-campus housing is as good as could be hoped for in any college town.
Abby - 01/31/2023
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at WWU. It is a beautiful campus, in an amazing town. The community is inviting for all kinds of people. No matter your interests, there is a place for you! The vast majority of the professors I had were fabulous. Especially once you get into your major, your professors want to do everything they can to help you succeed.
Natalye - 09/28/2022
I really like it here at Western Washington. I am currently a sophomore and really enjoyed my Freshman year. I play lacrosse for the school and work at the dining hall as well. I like all of my courses and have a bunch of friends to hang out with. I feel welcomed and safe at this school and wouldn't have it any other way.
Erin - 12/28/2021
Nestled between Seattle, the Pacific Ocean, and Canada is the little town of Bellingham, also know as the City of Subdued Excitement. Bellingham is an important part of the Western Washington vibe. There is a vibrant art community at Western. There is an environment of inclusivity and exploration of diverse worldviews. My one piece of advice for anyone wanting to attend college is that you realize the YOU are a big factor in the type of experience you will have. Ask yourself, are you seeking a college experience of inebriation or are you seeking to enrich your life with an emersion into self discovery or are you simply seeking a career? My regret is that I didn't take advantage of my professors' office hours. I wish I had spent more time getting to know professors and gleaning from their wisdom and research.
Kat - 09/14/2020
Western is a good school if you want a close knit community and to have access to several opportunities. There are many avenues to express yourself, and the view of the water is gorgeous. The access to downtown is immense and filled with interesting activities to occupy your time. The library is full of helpful information over several topics and a great place to study. There's a place on campus for everyone. Most of the faculty are very accommodating and willing to help you if you have a problem.
Alee - 08/13/2020
Western is a very good university to start your four year at, especially if you would like to explore you options in life. Western is open to many things and the student government is also open to hearing the student voices. There are many interesting clubs with many students who are open to trying new things. I fell like everyone is friendly and open to accepting. It depends on who you talk to, really. But overall, Western is a good school to attend.
kelsey - 06/17/2020
I really enjoy life at Western. When I first started here I had a lot of expectations about college life, some good and some bad, and for the most part Western has done pretty well in holding up to that. I am glad to go here. There is a lot of opportunities and lessons learned by living in this town.
Kaia - 05/06/2020
It's a good small school. There is a wide range of interesting classes, but it isn't as overwhelming as a larger school like UW. We don't have a football team or greek life and I like that since when a university has those it tends to prioritize those organizations. The most popular major is environmental studies and people are pretty environmentally-conscious. People are pretty laid back, like to go outdoors, and smoke some pot. The campus is really close to downtown and there are some nice cafes, restaurants, and theaters. Food in the dining halls isn't that great, but decent enough to eat every once in a while; the chicken sandwiches are good, there's a good salad bar, and a soft-serve station (although sometimes its unreliable. The city it is in is on the ocean so it can get very windy, but there are good views from the main dining hall on campus. There are a lot of buses that go through campus to and from downtown, but the buses are often late, and depending on the time can be very packed. Overall a good, laidback school with a lot of options to entertain yourself as it is easy to take the train or a bus to Seattle or Vancouver, BC.
Brinley - 04/28/2020
It is a beautiful campus, filled with trees and art and is a very simple layout. It is not too big and the students who attend are generally very kind. The landscape is all the good parts of the pacific north west. Very good for students who are more into nature and being outside. There is also a huge science department and art is very big here too.
Emily - 04/24/2020
Western Washington University is situated in the Northwest corner of Washington state. With a beautiful campus that boasts views of Bellingham bay and a large arboretum, WWU is a nature-lovers dream. While students tend to be laid-back, academic excellence is still a priority and the many active extra-curricular clubs and events offer a range of possibilities for interested students. There is a large focus on outdoor recreation, with opportunities to summit nearby Mt. Baker through the Outdoor Center, kayaking lessons, and much more. Class sizes are small, and the professors take time to connect with their students. Quietly boasting the best teacher-education program in Washington state, the Woodring College of Education is a progressive college within Western that prepares teachers to enter classrooms ready to make an impact on students. An excellent school for students who enjoys the outdoors but are committed to their education, Western Washington University offers high-quality academic opportunities and outdoor adventure alike.
Amanda Jo - 04/17/2020
Incredible! The campus is beautiful, as is the surrounding area. Nearby Sedro-Wooley is rich with history, and there are plenty of parks and woods near campus for a relaxing nature break! You do not have to live on campus for the first year, which is a nice choice to have. The dorms, if you do choose to live on campus, are easy to find roommates for.
Jalen - 03/13/2020
Western Washington is a mid-size college with a very competitive and relevant cross country and track team and a promising environmental science program. As well as having fun majors and exciting athletics, Western Washington is also situated right on the water of Puget Sound giving way to a beautiful and serene view of water that's surrounded by the city of Bellingham and its people.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Western Washington University is 83%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Apply sooner! I realize WWU was/is your last choice, but there's really only one place that is 'the' place to be for on-campus housing: the Nash/Mathes complex! People everywhere are nice, but applying later is going to get you put in your last choice for housing, and in your case, that did not turn out to be the optimum housing/first-year experience! Also, give clubs more of a chance that just one or two meetings...that is not enough time to really get to know people for who they really are to be able to fully enjoy the club experience! Be sure to participate in language classes more than you think is necessary, too, because the professors are extremely harsh in that area of grading. All in all, just use common sense and get involved; everyone in Bellingham is friendly. Oh, and if you decide to go to Warm Cookie Night (or a special meal), make sure to arrive atleast 15 minutes early at the dining hall to line up!
The community is the best thing about WWU. Everyone is extremely friendly, inviting, and open-minded. It is the best possible atmosphere to be in if you want to get to know yourself a little more, while still getting to know new people.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
Western Washington University is an institution that is accepting of differences, encouraging of scholars, and located in a breathtakingly beautiful area.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
I think the worst thing about WWU is that it is difficult for students to get into classes needed to complete undergraduate requirements and prerequisites for majors. I am hoping to major in Chemistry, yet I have only been able to complete the lowest level class due to the lack of availability. Also, my good friend is debating whether she wants to complete her degree at WWU because of the estimated time it takes to finish her degree.
The type of person who should attend Western Washington University is a dedicated friendly person. It takes hard work to do well in the challenging academic atmosphere Western has to offer. The other students at Western are very friendly, outgoing, and fun to be around. The accepting student body makes western fun and very interesting place to be.
Not sure. I believe that it is well known in Washington for being a fairly small state school. Some departments have good reputations outside of Washington.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
A conservative individual who is not interested in having their beliefs and personal standards challenged should not attend this school. This is a liberal school where a closed minded individual, if not willing to see broader perspecitives, would get lost. Asking for help is important at this school. If a person needs a lot of hand-holding through the financial aid process, this is not the right school for you.
Overall, I think Western Washington University is a great school. Although they aren't the largest, I think they have many programs to choose from to study as well as to help you figure out what to study. Bellingham is a great place to live with many recreational opportunities. I am happier here than I ever thought I would be.
My major is Behavioral Neuroscience. I am really excited to pursue this program because it is sometime I am really interested and because it gives me multiple opportunities. Many students in my program either start their career right after graduation or go on to graduate school to further their education. I feel that many of the departments give students a chance to begin a career in their field right away if they can't or would rather not continue on to graduate school. Also, the majority of my professors have been very helpful and friendly, enabling to learn the most I can in my classes. I have only had a couple professors I didn't make the connection with in the classroom.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
Many outsiders think Western students are hippies- wrong! In fact, many students are "normal" just like you. Most people do not walk around without shoes or eat berries off of campus bushes. However, this can be seen on a weekly basis, especially when the weather permits.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
The groups I hear about the most at Western is the LGBT group and sports. I am involved in Western women's club lacrosse team and I love it. There are a lot of parties around campus on the weekends, but not as many of them involve drinking as you would think in a college town. Many times people have get togethers that involve going to the bowling alley and just having a good time. There is no greek system at Western.
Where is the best place to get work done on campus?
The library is my favorite place to get some work done! If you're in the mood for a louder location, the bottom floor in Zoe's Bagels is the place to be, or if you want peace and quiet the upstairs with a view of Bellingham Bay is my favorite study spot!
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
umm some are, not everyone smokes (me as an example) but a lot do. it is a very granola place, no one really judges people too much, but it still has some girl drama (can't ever get away from it all), no cliques really
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
83% of students attending Western Washington University receive some sort of financial aid.
25% were awarded federal grants.44%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.