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UNITED STATES · PULLMAN

Washington State University

public · Founded 1890 · Languages: en, es

In short

Washington State University is a public research university with over 200 undergraduate programs across six campuses and online. It offers a vibrant academic and student life with significant financial aid opportunities for its diverse student body.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1890
Students: 31,000
International students: 1,000
Acceptance rate: 83%
Tuition (intl): €24–48k/yr
Languages: EN, ES
Location: Pullman, United States

Washington State University (WSU) is a public research university with a rich history spanning over 130 years. Dedicated to public service, WSU aims to empower students and faculty to create a world where all people can thrive. The university is recognized for its very high research activity, offering a wide array of over 200 undergraduate and nearly 150 graduate programs across its six campuses and Global Campus online platform. WSU boasts a diverse academic environment with 11 colleges, focusing on hands-on learning, innovation, and expertise from top scholars. The university emphasizes creating an equitable and supportive learning environment, welcoming scholars from around the globe. With significant annual research funding, WSU faculty and students actively work on solutions to global challenges, contributing to diverse fields from health sciences to sustainable energy. The main campus in Pullman offers a vibrant residential experience with state-of-the-art facilities and Pac-12 sports. Other campuses in Spokane, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Everett offer specialized programs, such as health sciences, STEM, and professional development, catering to different student needs and career paths. WSU's commitment to affordability and student success is evident through its various financial aid and scholarship programs.

Why study here

Gain hands-on learning and research opportunities across a wide range of academic fields.
Access expertise and insights from top scholars and researchers in modern classrooms with up-to-date technologies.
Benefit from a public research university dedicated to solving problems and improving lives through community-focused initiatives.
Choose from over 200 undergraduate and nearly 150 graduate programs across six campuses and an online Global Campus to find your ideal learning environment.
Become part of a community that prioritizes equitable opportunities and welcomes scholars from around the globe.
Receive significant financial support, with 83% of WSU students receiving financial aid and over 700 scholarship programs available.

Student life

Life at WSU extends beyond academics, offering a dynamic and supportive environment. Students can engage in a wide array of activities, from Pac-12 sports on the Pullman campus to student organizations and leadership opportunities across all locations. WSU Spokane, for instance, provides a dedicated range of support services including leadership activities, a library, student health services, tutoring, counseling, a diversity center, and a fitness center, all within walking distance of downtown Spokane and its natural attractions. The university fosters a close-knit community, emphasized by its #1 ranking by The Princeton Review for 'Their Students Love These Colleges', along with top rankings for athletic facilities and happiest students. WSU is committed to creating an inclusive campus, recognized as LGBTQ-friendly with a 5 out of 5 stars from the Campus Pride Index, and is a First-gen Forward institution supporting first-generation college students.

Fees

InternationalFor undergraduate students on the Pullman Campus for the 2026-27 academic year, estimated non-resident direct costs (tuition and mandatory fees) are $15,959 per semester. Including estimated indirect costs (housing, food, books, transportation, miscellaneous expenses), the total estimated cost of attendance (COA) is $28,174 per semester, or $56,348 annually.

HomeWashington resident undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees are substantially lower than non-resident rates; see the WSU cost calculator for current resident figures.

LivingEstimated yearly living expenses for undergraduate students on the Pullman Campus (2026-27) include: Housing $5,423, Food $4,500, Books & Supplies $450, Transportation $858, and Miscellaneous Expenses $984. These are indirect costs that vary based on individual choices and residency.

83% of WSU students receive financial aid, with an average financial aid package of $11,881 for incoming students in 2024. 68% of students receive scholarships and/or grants, and 36% of WSU students pay no tuition. There are interest-free installment payment plans available for tuition.

Admissions

Undergraduate AdmissionStandardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not required. A high school diploma or GED is accepted. Academic core requirements are outlined by the Washington Student Achievement Council.

Graduate AdmissionAdmission is a joint decision between the Graduate School dean and the prospective department. Requirements include transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining research interests. A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is generally required for doctoral programs like Molecular Plant Sciences.

MBA AdmissionApplicants need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited four-year institution or international equivalent (or professional degrees like MD, PharmD, DVM). Most successful candidates have at least a 3.0 GPA. Required materials include an application, official transcripts, a comprehensive resume/CV, one letter of recommendation (preferably from an immediate supervisor), and a statement of purpose (under 500 words). GMAT/GRE scores are optional but encouraged for those not meeting minimum selection criteria. Business foundation courses may be required for students without a business bachelor's degree from an AACSB-accredited institution or equivalent.

International TranscriptsAll international transcripts for MBA applications should be sent to World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) for evaluation.

TOEFL79 or above (iBT)

IELTS6.5 overall

Rankings

U.S. News & World Report 2026#8

U.S. News & World Report 2026#11

U.S. News & World Report 2026#12

U.S. News & World Report 2026#15

U.S. News & World Report 2026#33

University scholarships

WSU Distinguished Regents Scholar AwardRenewable merit scholarship for high-achieving incoming students

Cougar Academic AwardAutomatic merit award for qualifying first-year students based on GPA

International Excellence AwardMerit-based awards for academically strong international undergraduates

Accreditation

Washington State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), with numerous programs holding additional specialized professional accreditations.

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

This program equips you with a strong foundation in historical knowledge and flexible teaching strategies to prepare you for secondary education classrooms. You will explore various historical periods and regions, including World, United States, European, and Asian history. The curriculum emphasizes developing your content expertise and professional teaching skills, making you well-prepared to adapt to the evolving educational landscape.

Bachelor's

Level

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated costs for international undergraduate students at Washington State University?

For the 2026-27 academic year on the Pullman Campus, estimated non-resident tuition and fees are $15,959 per semester. Including estimated indirect costs like housing and food, the total cost of attendance is approximately $28,174 per semester or $56,348 annually.

Does Washington State University offer financial aid or scholarships to international students?

Yes, 83% of WSU students receive financial aid, with an average package of $11,881 for incoming students in 2024. Numerous scholarship programs are available, including merit-based awards specifically for international undergraduates.

What academic programs are available at Washington State University?

WSU offers over 200 undergraduate and nearly 150 graduate programs across its 11 colleges and six campuses, including an online Global Campus. The university is recognized for its very high research activity.

Are standardized test scores required for undergraduate admission at WSU?

No, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not required for undergraduate admission. WSU accepts a high school diploma or GED and outlines academic core requirements through the Washington Student Achievement Council.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?

International applicants typically need a TOEFL score of 79 or above (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5 overall.

Last updated 3 July 2026