The Graduate College

Frequently Asked Questions

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Q. How do I get started?
A. If you are interested in graduate study at WMU, simply fill out the information request form (www.wmich.edu/admi/inquiry/gradinq.html) and we will send you the information you need to get started. You may also want to contact your program of interest (www.wmich.edu/grad/programs.html) to gain more information about curriculum, faculty and admission requirements.

Q. Can I apply online?
A. Yes. You can apply on line at (www.wmich.edu/admi/gradapp/index.html)

Q. How are applications handled?
A. The graduate admissions process at WMU involves the Office of Admissions and Orientation and the graduate departments. Admission to a specific graduate program requires acceptance by the academic department. To apply for graduate program admission, you may use either the self-managed application or the online application form. You are responsible for gathering all required admission materials (official transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, etc.) and submitting those materials to the appropriate office. The graduate department makes the admission decision and sends you written notification.

Q. What is the application deadline?
A. Application deadlines vary by department; not all departments admit students for all semesters/sessions. You should consult with your department for specific information.
The best time to apply for admission is a year in advance since the length of the admission process varies by department and can take from 1 to 3 months after receipt of all materials.

Q. What types of admission tests are required?
A. At the master's level, the Haworth College of Business requires the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) (www.mba.com) for all MBA and MSA applicants. For other master's programs, requirements vary by department and you should check with your specific program of interest. At the doctoral level, all programs require the General Test of the GRE (Graduate Records Examination) (www.gre.org); some departments may also require the Subject Test for their discipline.

Q. What is Permission-to-take-Classes status vs. degree-seeking status?
A. Degree-seeking-status means that you have applied and been admitted to a specific graduate program. Admission as a Permission-to-take-Classes student does not constitute admission to a graduate degree program at WMU. Course selection and financial aid options may be limited under this status. Courses taken may not apply to a specific degree program, and a maximum of nine hours of credit taken under this status may be considered for inclusion in a degree program.

Q. How do I learn more about graduate assistantships, fellowships and other types of financial aid?
A. It is best to contact your program of interest to learn more about graduate assistantship opportunities. The Graduate College (269-387-8212 or (www.wmich.edu/grad/funding) has information about fellowships, and the Office of Student Financial Aid (269-387-6000 or (www.wmich.edu/finaid) has information about federal aid.

Q. Is housing available for graduate students?
A. The University maintains three apartment complexes with affordable monthly rates and flexible lease options. Contact 269-387-2175 or (www.wmich.edu/apartment). Spindler Residence Hall is reserved for doctoral, graduate, senior, and non-traditional students. Contact 269-387-7101 or (www.wmich.edu/housing/spindler).

The Office of Off-Campus Life assists students in locating off-campus housing and maintains a list of rental units in the Kalamazoo community, along with listings of area landlords and students looking for roommates. Contact 269-387-2336 or (www.ocl.wmich.edu).

Q. Is there an orientation for new graduate students?
A. There is no University wide orientation for new graduate students. Many departments do conduct their own departmental orientation for new students prior to each semester. The department will communicate with you regarding advising/orientation after you have been admitted.