First-Year Students
Applying to college is an exciting step and we’re here to help you along the way. At UW Bothell, you’ll join a close-knit campus community where you can earn a respected UW degree, build connections, and find the support you need to succeed.
This page will guide you through the application process, important deadlines and next steps.

Apply as a first-year if one or more of the following apply:
- I am a current high school student and plan to enter UW Bothell directly after graduating.
- I only have college credits through Running Start, College in the high school, Tech Prep, AP, and/or IB.
- I plan to complete college credits during the summer after graduating high school, directly before entering UW Bothell for autumn quarter.
- I have already graduated high school but have never taken or completed any college courses or credits.
First-year Admissions Journey
What can you expect when you apply to UW Bothell? The admissions journey below outlines the full process from beginning to end.
Step 1: Explore
DISCOVER
The discovery phase in your college search is a time to explore your passions and see how we can help you achieve your goals.
Read more about why UW Bothell is a great place to learn and grow!
VISIT
Come experience the sights and sounds of our park-like setting and determine if it’s the right fit for you.
CONNECT
Find your admissions counselor and chat about your application, transcripts or any other questions.
Step 2: Apply
REVIEW ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Have you met the prerequisites to apply to UW Bothell? Review the list to see if you’re ready to apply.
COMPLETE THE COMMON APP
Add UW Bothell to your Common App. Remember to give yourself plenty of time to complete your application. You don’t have to complete it all at once.
APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID
If you are seeking assistance to help fund your education, apply for financial aid. The priority application date is February 1, but you can still apply for financial aid after the deadline.
Step 3: Enroll
CHECK EMAIL & MISSING ITEMS
After you apply, we will contact you if something is missing and/or to submit final high school or community college transcripts.
ACCEPT YOUR ADMISSION
You did it! Being admitted to UW Bothell is a huge accomplishment. Accept your offer of admission to become a member of the Husky family by paying the $250 deposit.
EXPLORE MORE STEPS
Get ready for your arrival on campus by completing all the remaining next steps, such as submitting vaccine documentation and attending Orientation.
Application Deadlines
You can start working on your application in your senior year when it becomes available on August 15. Applications can be submitted August 15 – January 15. See the application dates and deadlines page for more information.
Early Action:
November 15
Regular Decision:
January 15
Start your application
The University of Washington Bothell seeks students who can benefit from its wealth of academic and cultural opportunities and contribute to its amazing energy and rich diversity of experiences. Our holistic review process looks beyond grades and standardized tests.
What we look for
In addition to grade-point average (GPA) and test scores, UW Bothell takes into account many aspects of an applicant’s achievements and personal history. Learn more about the application process, documents to prepare, what makes a competitive applicant, and how to write a good personal statement.