Admissions
Fall 2026 Application Now Open!
About Western Kentucky University
At Western Kentucky University (WKU), we offer exceptional academic programs, nationally recognized faculty, and a welcoming campus community that sets us apart in American higher education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a strong commitment to student success, and an engaged campus culture, WKU provides the perfect environment to achieve your educational and career goals. Whether you’re interested in innovative research, hands-on learning, or creative exploration, WKU helps you climb higher toward your dreams.
Our students are called Hilltoppers because they rise to every challenge—thriving academically, personally, and professionally. WKU supports students from all backgrounds with affordable tuition, scholarships, and resources that make earning a degree more accessible. Join a university that promotes innovation in Kentucky and around the world. Discover how Western Kentucky University admissions can open the door to your future.
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 Choose WKU?
Students across Kentucky and surrounding regions choose Western Kentucky University (WKU) for our nationally recognized programs, vibrant campus life, and supportive community.
With more than 170 undergraduate academic programs, including majors, minors, and pre-professional tracks, WKU provides the right path for every student. Our top-ranked programs in Journalism and Broadcasting, Education, Engineering, Nursing, and Business prepare graduates to excel in life beyond the Hill.
Applying to WKU is simple: complete our online application, submit your transcripts and test scores, and pay the $50 application fee. Essays and letters of recommendation are not required to apply for admission, making the process fast and straightforward.
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 WKU Preview Day, 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 WKU Preview Day from information sessions to campus tours, and you'll start 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. 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
Freshmen 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 on the Rise by Southern Living
Academic Programs
Freshmen Receiving Scholarship Aid
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
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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