Application Process

4 year university

Every college sets its own admission requirements, so it’s a good idea for to check with the college’s website to see what criteria (GPA, test scores, etc.) applicants must meet in order to be a good candidate.

Early applications are usually due in the fall, sometimes even as early as October. For regular admissions, applications are usually due in December or January.

Admissions Process

Here are the most common parts to an application at a 4-year college:

  • The Application: Most colleges use their own custom application form, but some schools, mostly private institutions, use a shared application called the Common Application.
  • Personal Statement/Essay: This is perhaps the most critical element of an application. The personal statement is a way for admissions officers to get to know who applicants are and why they want to attend their college. Each school has specific topic options.
    • Most Seniors at WF West have a personal statement or admissions essay as part of their English courses. This is a great place to start and puts you one step close to pushing submit!
  • Transcript: Most colleges will require a high school transcript, which is a record of your classes and grades. Students, who have earned college credit, will also need to submit those college transcripts. NOTE: Colleges only accept "official" transcripts that are signed and sealed by the high school, usually the school counselor.
  • Test Scores: The required test could be one of the following: SAT and/or ACT, SAT Subject Tests (select subjects),or ASVAB (for military). Many schools may also use the Smarter Balance test scores to determine placement in college course.
  • Short Answer Response: These are extra questions beyond a personal statement.
  • Activities Log/Resume: This listing of extracurricular activities is a way for admissions to get to know your child.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Sometimes a college will require one or more letters of recommendation, from someone other than a family member.

2 year college

Every college sets its own admission requirements, so it’s a good idea for to check with the college’s website to see what criteria and deadline applicants must meet in order to be a good candidate.

2-year colleges, or community colleges, are a great option for students who either intend to transfer to a 4-year college or for those looking specifically for technical skills that will translate directly to the workforce.

Timing is still important at a community college. Most community colleges have an open admissions policy, but classes fill up fast and students who apply early will have a better chance of getting optimal classes. Each college will have different deadlines for admissions, so check online at the college you are interested in.

Here are the most common parts to an application at a 2-year college:

  • The Application: All community colleges in Washington use the same online application process atwww.public.ctc.edu/ApplicantWebClient/Applicant
    • Here you will set up an account with the Web Admissions Center and then be prompted to set up a user ID and password.
    • You then will be able to complete the Admissions application and select the school you are applying to.
    • You will then receive a response to your application generally within a week, some within 24 hours! This will give you a Student ID number and next steps to enroll.
  • Transcript: Most colleges will require a high school transcript, which is a record of your classes and grades. Students, who have earned college credit, will also need to submit those college transcripts. NOTE: Colleges only accept "official" transcripts that are signed and sealed by the high school, usually the school counselor.
    • To request a transcript at WF West, you can complete a form at the at the Counseling Center. Please note that this request has a 24 hour turnaround time- so plan ahead!
  • Test Scores: Most colleges require a placement test. For community colleges this is usually called the ASSET/ACCUPLACER/COMPASS. Community Colleges in Washington can also use the Smarter Balance test scores in lieu of a placement test.
  • Essays, Resumes or Letters of Recommendation are not required for admissions to community college, however you should still be working on these items and have them ready to apply for scholarships!