Admissions
About WKU
Exceptional academic programs and world-renowned faculty are only part of what makes the WKU experience unparalleled in American higher education. Our state-of-the-art facilities, commitment to student success, and highly engaged campus community demonstrate what we call the Spirit of WKU. Your hopes, dreams, and ideas are important to us. We constantly seek to provide an environment where creativity is nurtured and intellect grows. Climb with us at Western Kentucky University.
We call our students Hilltoppers, because WKU students are ready to climb higher, to thrive, and to promote innovation here in Kentucky and across the globe. We are committed to supporting students from all backgrounds in their pursuit of an affordable degree. Learn more about the educational experience WKU can offer you.
Stay on track to making the Hill your home.
Admission Checklist
Sign up for a campus tour and discover the WKU spirit for yourself.
Hilltopper Experience
WKU's tuition costs are below the national average, estimate your cost of attendance.
Why Apply to Western Kentucky University?
All students have their own reasons for joining our community. From award-winning academic programs to exciting sporting events to our abundance of extracurricular activities, Western Kentucky University has an opportunity for everyone.
We are proud to offer more than 170 undergraduate academic options for WKU students including majors, minors, and pre-professional tracks. Our Journalism and Broadcasting, Education, Engineering, Nursing and Business programs are all nationally ranked.
Our application is completely online and easy to fill out. We will also need your transcripts, test scores, and a $50 application fee. Essays and letters of recommendation are not required to apply for admission to WKU.
I Want to Learn More about WKU!
Interested in learning more about WKU? Get more information and receive invitations to events happening near you!
Experience the Hilltopper spirit!
Join us for Head for the Hill, an open house event that offers a comprehensive look at our outstanding academic offerings, robust student activities, and beautiful campus. A variety of programming is available at Head for the Hill from information sessions to campus tours, and you'll finish off the day with our information fair where you'll get to have one-on-one conversations with representatives from all areas of our campus community.
Learn More
We're bringing the Hilltopper spirit to a city near you for Discover WKU! Get a glimpse at the WKU experience without the commute to campus through programming that includes an Admissions presentation and an information fair. Various members of our campus community will be available for answering questions and sharing their WKU story, from professionals in our department of Housing and Residence Life to faculty members from each of our 5 Academic Colleges, and even some current students.
Learn More
WKU’s picturesque 200-acre Hilltop campus in Bowling Green, Ky is recognized as one of the most beautiful in the country and is one of only four college campuses designated as a Safe Community by Safe Communities America. Come see the Hill for yourself and experience the Hilltopper spirit on a campus tour. Both walking and bus tours are offered daily and are facilitated by current WKU students.
Learn More
Freshman Application Process
Below is an overview of important steps in the Western Kentucky University application process. View the Admissions Timeline and WKU’s Financial Aid page for detailed information.
Before your senior year:
- Make sure your high school coursework is aligned with our admissions requirements. If you are an in-state applicant, this would be the KY minimum high school graduation requirements. WKU recommends that all applicants complete the most challenging curriculum available to them necessary for academic success. Two credits of a single world language is highly recommended although admission to WKU may still be granted without the completion of two credits of a single world language.
August-December of your senior year:
- Take a campus tour and meet with college representatives.
- Apply to WKU! Our online application takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete and has a $50 application fee.
January-May of your senior year:
- Complete the FAFSA.
- Accept scholarships and financial aid offers.
- Attend the Topper Orientation Program (TOP).
The WKU Admissions Office is available to help you every step of the way and can be contacted via phone, text, or email. Our main phone number is 270-745-2551 and our primary office hours are from 8am-4:30pm Central Time.
Apply to WKU!
We’re thrilled that you want to become part of the Western Kentucky University community of Hilltoppers. Take the next step to learn more about being a student at WKU.
Apply Now Visit WKU Learn More
Average Class Size
Total Enrollment
Cities in the U.S.
Academic Programs
Freshmen Receiving Scholarship Aid
Campuses in the World Named a Safe Community
Home on The Hill
Our residence halls are more than just a place to live. At WKU, you’ll be part of a community! Explore your options and fill out the Housing application.
Housing at WKU
Plan Ahead
It’s never too soon to start planning for college. Check out this timeline that we’ve created to see what you can do right now to get ready to earn your college degree at WKU.
Admissions Timeline
Topper Orientation Program
TOP is an important step in your Hilltopper journey. During TOP, you’ll interact with current students and classmates, meet with an advisor and choose your class schedule, and receive your WKU Student ID. Click the button below to select your TOP date.
Sign up for TOP
A safe place to call home
You’re not just choosing a college; you’re choosing a home. WKU is one of only four college campuses to receive the Safe Community designation from the National Safety Council. You can rest easy knowing that we’re continually working to ensure you’ll be able to focus on classes and college life uninhibited by safety concerns.
Learn More
Connect with your WKU Admissions Counselor
The college search and application process can seem overwhelming, but your WKU admissions counselor is here to help. Connect with your admissions counselor, and let us know if you have any questions.
Find Your Counselor
Mission of the Office of Admissions
The mission of the Office of Admissions is to recruit and admit a diverse and academically talented group of students to WKU. The Office strives to meet and adapt to students' needs efficiently and effectively to best facilitate each student's transition into higher education.
Office of Admissions Equal Opportunity Statement
Western Kentucky University (WKU) is committed to equal opportunity in its educational programs and employment. The University is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, veteran status, or marital status.
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