Central Washington University
Overview
Central Washington University is an attractive student-oriented institution, situated in a beautiful college town of Ellensburg, Washington, which is one of the best student-oriented colleges within the region, suitable to international students who would like to study in USA in a friendly, academically oriented environment.
Established in 1891, CWU has expanded to a full-fledged university with over 135 majors in a wide range of disciplines, such as business, education, STEM, and arts.
The CWU with its hands-on teaching model is a good place to visit when seeking an undergraduate study or postgraduate program at the Central Washington University.
CWU has a unique combination of the latest amenities and individualized academic focus, making it one of the top universities to study in the USA when students seek a well-rounded experience, high-value, and directing channels to success in their careers.
Highlights
Acceptance Rate: 90%
Total International Students: 400+ (from 60+ countries)
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Placement Percentage: 98%
Central Washington University Intakes
International students exploring Central Washington University intakes will typically find three admission periods: Fall, Winter, and Spring.
The Central Washington University application deadlines vary by semester, but Fall intake deadlines usually arrive earlier due to higher competition and scholarship availability.
If you’re unsure how to apply to Central Washington University, the university’s online portal guides students step-by-step, from document submission to visa processing support.
- Fall Intake: The Fall intake is the primary admission season at CWU and offers the widest selection of academic options. Students also gain access to more courses to study in USA, campus orientation events, and scholarship opportunities that are typically most available in the Fall.
- Spring Intake: The Spring intake allows students to begin their studies later in the academic year without delaying long-term academic progress. Many transfer students or mid-year starters use this intake to start undergraduate programs at Central Washington University or prepare for advanced coursework.
- Winter Intake: The Winter intake is a good choice for students who need additional time to prepare admission documents or complete visa requirements. International applicants often appreciate the quieter, more gradual transition this term offers.
Central Washington University Courses
CWU offers a broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to meet global industry needs. Students searching for popular programs at Central Washington University will frequently encounter majors like computer science, business administration, and psychology.
The tuition fees at Central Washington University are considered competitive compared to other U.S. public universities, especially for international students.
For those pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s in USA, CWU provides strong academic value through small classes, hands-on learning, and well-equipped research facilities.
Some of the top courses at Central Washington University are as follows:
| Program | Duration | Total Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MS in Computational Science | 2 Years | $40,046 |
| MA in English Literary Studies and Teaching | 2 Years | $41,826 |
| MS in Integrative Human Physiology | 2 Years | $40,046 |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 1 Year (2 Years Part-time) | $32,927 |
| MS in Mental Health Counseling | 2 Years | $80,094 |
| MS in Sport Coaching | 2 Years | $41,826 |
| Master of Public Health (MPH) | 2 Years | $49,836 |
Cost of Studying at Central Washington University
Understanding the cost of studying at Central Washington University is essential for international students planning long-term. Apart from tuition, students should budget for housing, meals, textbooks, insurance, and personal expenses.
Ellensburg is relatively affordable compared to major U.S. cities, giving CWU students a cost-effective living experience. This is especially useful for those comparing the cost of education in USA across various states and institutions.
Here’s an estimated student-friendly cost breakdown for Central Washington University:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| UG Tuition Fees | $23,000 – $25,000/year |
| PG Tuition Fees | $18,000 – $30,000/year |
| Accommodation | $8,000 – $12,000/year |
| Food | $350 – $550/month |
| Travel | $50 – $120/month |
| General Expenses | $150 – $300/month |
Central Washington University Scholarships
Students who desire scholarships can pursue merit-based, need-based and program-based scholarships. Whereas certain scholarships automatically consider applications, others will need independent applications.
Central Washington University merit-based scholarships are also provided by the university as a reward for high academic performance and potential leadership skills. They can drastically lower tuition fees among deserving students.
International learners researching financial aid Central Washington University are encouraged to review available assistantships, grants, and external scholarship sources to maximize support.
Some of the top scholarships at Central Washington University for international students are as follows:
| Scholarship | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| International Merit-based Scholarship | $12,000 | Awarded to international students pursuing degree at university |
| Chancellor’s Scholarship | Variable | Awarded based on academic merit and leadership |
| Fulbright Fellowship | Variable | Awarded to PG and PhD students |
Central Washington University Admission
International applicants should carefully review the admission requirements. The eligibility to study at Central Washington University generally requires completion of secondary education for undergraduate applicants and a recognized bachelor’s degree for graduate applicants.
Regarding language criteria, English proficiency for Central Washington University is assessed through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test.
The admission requirements for Central Washington University are as follows:
Admission Requirements:
To get admission to Master’s program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 79
- IELTS – 6.5
- Duolingo – 120
Additional Requirements:
You will also be needed to provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, resume or CV, interview (if required), and English language proficiency scores.
Admission Requirements:
For admission to Bachelor’s in USA, students are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 2.0 or above.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 71
- IELTS – 6.0
- Duolingo – 105
Additional Requirements:
You will also be needed to provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, resume or CV, interview (if required), and English language proficiency scores.
Accommodation at Central Washington University
CWU provides a variety of on-campus housing options that make transitioning to university life smoother for international students.
Those exploring housing at Central Washington University will find residence halls, apartment-style living, and themed communities.
Off-campus rentals are also available for students who prefer more independence and space.
- On-Campus: On-campus housing at Central Washington University offers students access to CWU’s well-known residence communities such as Kamola Hall, Davies Hall, and Wendell Hill Suites. These residences place students steps away from the Student Union, academic buildings, and the Recreation Center, making campus life highly convenient.
- Off-Campus: Off-campus housing in Ellensburg gives CWU students a more independent lifestyle with options ranging from shared apartments near the campus perimeter to private rentals in neighborhoods like Brooklane Village or near University Way.
Central Washington University Placements
Students looking up the Central Washington University placement rate will discover that CWU focuses on career preparation by using internships, co-ops, and real-life learning opportunities.
The career center of the university offers individual advising, resume assistance, and interview preparation, which are important services to international students planning to work during or after their studies. This reflects the strong career support at Central Washington University available to all learners.
CWU’s extensive alumni network at Central Washington University also opens doors to mentorship, job opportunities, and industry networking worldwide.
Some of the top recruiters at Central Washington University are as follows:
- Boeing
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Starbucks Corporate
- Alaska Airlines
- PACCAR
- Swedish Medical Center
- UW Medicine
- City of Seattle
- State of Washington Government Departments
- Deloitte
- KPMG
- Puget Sound Energy
- Costco Corporate
- Enterprise Holdings
Student Essential Services
The campus life at CWU is dynamic, diverse, and multicultural, and it provides a friendly atmosphere to international students who are investigating the student life at Central Washington University.
The university offers a lot of support to international students support at Central Washington University, such as orientation services, USA student visa services, tutoring facilities, and wellness.
- International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS): Provides visa advising, immigration support, document assistance, and specialized orientation for new international students.
- Academic Success Center (ASC): Provides tutoring, writing assistance, peer mentoring and study skills workshops to assist students to achieve success in coursework.
- Student Health & Counseling Services: Provides medical services, mental health counseling, wellness, and crisis services, all of which are available to every CWU student.
- Student Involvement & Clubs: Connects students to 130+ clubs, leadership programs, cultural associations, and community engagement opportunities.
Location of Central Washington University
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Ellensburg has the Central Transit bus system, which is free to CWU students and serves the business and shopping centers, grocery stores, and residential neighborhoods. This service is used by many students who travel on a daily basis without having to use a personal vehicle.
CWU provides numerous on-campus part-time jobs, including positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, recreation centers, and administrative offices. International students on an F-1 visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
Ellensburg is considered a safe, close-knit college town with low crime rates. CWU’s campus police, emergency blue-light systems, and safety patrols enhance security, making it a comfortable environment for new international students.
The CWU Recreation Center provides access to gyms, fitness classes, indoor courts, climbing walls, and outdoor recreation programs. All enrolled students receive membership as part of their fees.
CWU offers tutoring in writing, speaking, and academic English through the Academic Success Center. Students can attend workshops or receive one-on-one help to strengthen language skills.
CWU has a growing international population and actively celebrates cultural diversity through global festivals, international dinners, cultural nights, and campus-wide diversity programming.
CWU’s campus is active with events such as movie nights, cultural showcases, game tournaments, outdoor trips, and club meetings. International students find it easy to socialize and form long-lasting friendships.
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