College Admission and Transfer

Washington’s public and private four-year colleges and universities, 34 community and technical colleges, and an array of private career schools, offer state residents a broad range of postsecondary educational opportunities.

Community and Technical Colleges
Washington offers broad access to students through its 34 community and technical colleges, whose open admissions policies are designed to eliminate barriers to students from any educational background. It is important to note that some admission standards do apply, however. Specific information can be obtained from the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.  There is also a Washington statute on community college admissions.

Baccalaureate Institutions
Students who aspire to attend a baccalaureate institution in Washington must apply and be admitted. Factors influencing admission include high school grade point averages, test scores, and extra-curricular activities. Admission standards, which vary for each institution, can be obtained through college and university websites.

College Admission Standards
New minimum college admission standards for students seeking admission to a public, four-year college or university, go fully into effect in fall 2012. An academic road map for middle and high school students, the new minimum standards do not guarantee admission but do establish a foundational level of academic achievement needed to do successful college work.

Transfer Pathways
Many Washington students initially enroll at a community or technical college intending to transfer to a four-year institution. Many others transfer between four-year institutions, or from four- to two-year institutions. More information on transfer can be found at the link above.

Credits to Complete a Degree
To complete an associate degree, students must earn a minimum of 90 quarter or 60 semester credits. To complete a bachelor's degree, a student must earn 180 quarter or 120 semester credits. Degree programs generally require students to earn three basic types of credits: general education, major specific, and electives.

State Laws
State Statute - RCW 28B.76.290

HECB Contacts
Email: Jim West - Phone: 360-753-7890
Email: Randy Spaulding - Phone: 360-753-7823