Arizona State University-West Admissions Requirements
Arizona State University-West (ASU West), one of four campuses of Arizona State University, offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in a more intimate and interdisciplinary campus environment. With a focus on innovation, academic excellence, and student success, ASU West’s admissions process is designed to ensure that applicants who are academically prepared and aligned with the university’s values are given the opportunity to join its diverse community.
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements
General Application Requirements
To apply for admission to Arizona State University-West as an undergraduate student, applicants must submit the following materials:
- Completed Application: Students can apply via the ASU Application or the Common Application. There is a non-refundable application fee of $70 for Arizona residents and $85 for non-residents and international students. Fee waivers are available for eligible students.
- Official High School Transcript: An official transcript from the applicant’s high school is required, showing grades from all completed coursework. This document helps assess the student’s academic preparation.
- ACT/SAT Scores (Optional): ASU has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students may submit SAT or ACT scores if they believe it will enhance their application, but those who choose not to submit will not be penalized.
- Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR): Instead of submitting an official transcript during the initial stages of the application process, Arizona high school students can complete the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR), providing detailed information on their coursework and grades.
- Personal Statement (Optional): While not required, a personal statement can be submitted to explain any special circumstances or additional qualifications.
- Letters of Recommendation (Optional): Applicants may submit letters of recommendation, though they are not required as part of the application process.
Academic Requirements
ASU West uses assured admission criteria, which means that students who meet specific academic benchmarks are automatically admitted. These requirements include:
- Arizona Residents:
- A minimum 3.0 GPA in competency courses (4.0 scale).
- Top 25% of high school graduating class.
- A score of 22 on the ACT or 1120 on the SAT (optional).
- Non-Residents:
- A minimum 3.0 GPA in competency courses.
- ACT score of 24 or SAT score of 1180 (optional).
Competency Requirements
To be eligible for admission, applicants must also demonstrate competency in the following subject areas, based on their high school coursework:
- English: 4 years
- Math: 4 years (including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and one advanced math course)
- Laboratory Science: 3 years (including biology, chemistry, or physics)
- Social Science: 2 years (including one year of American history)
- Foreign Language: 2 years of the same foreign language
- Fine Arts or Career and Technical Education (CTE): 1 year
Application Deadlines
While ASU West practices rolling admissions, it is recommended that students apply early to ensure they receive their decision in time to make informed choices. Some key deadlines are:
- Fall Semester: Apply by May 1 for priority consideration.
- Spring Semester: Apply by November 1.
- Summer Session: Applications should be submitted by March 15.
Transfer Student Admissions Requirements
ASU West welcomes transfer students who wish to continue their education at the university. The admissions process is designed to make transferring as seamless as possible.
General Application Requirements for Transfer Students
To apply as a transfer student, the following materials are required:
- Completed Transfer Application: Transfer students must complete the ASU application, which includes a non-refundable application fee of $70 for Arizona residents and $85 for non-residents and international students.
- Official College Transcripts: Transfer students must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. ASU requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 for admission. However, some programs may have higher GPA requirements.
- High School Transcript: If the applicant has fewer than 24 transferable credits, an official high school transcript must also be submitted.
Transfer Credit Policies
ASU West is committed to accepting as many transfer credits as possible from accredited institutions. The university offers a variety of resources to ensure smooth credit transfer, including:
- Transfer Credit Evaluation: Students can use ASU’s Transfer Guide tool to see how their credits will transfer to ASU West.
- Maximum Transfer Credits: Students may transfer up to 64 credits from a community college or up to 90 credits from a four-year institution.
Application Deadlines for Transfer Students
- Fall Semester: May 1 (priority deadline)
- Spring Semester: November 1 (priority deadline)
- Summer Session: March 15 (priority deadline)
Graduate Admissions Requirements
ASU West offers a range of graduate programs across various fields. Each program may have its own specific admissions requirements, but there are general requirements applicable to most programs.
General Application Requirements for Graduate Programs
Applicants to graduate programs at ASU West must submit the following materials:
- Completed Graduate Application: Graduate students must complete the ASU graduate application online. The application fee is $70 for Arizona residents and $115 for non-residents and international students.
- Official Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities previously attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs require two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources who can speak to the applicant’s qualifications.
- Personal Statement: A written statement outlining the applicant’s academic goals, research interests, and reasons for pursuing a graduate degree at ASU West.
- Resume or CV: A resume or curriculum vitae detailing relevant academic and professional experience.
- Standardized Test Scores: Some programs may require GRE or GMAT scores. However, many programs have waived these requirements, making them optional for admission.
Program-Specific Requirements
Each graduate program at ASU West may have additional requirements. Below are examples of common graduate programs and their specific admissions expectations:
- Master of Social Work (MSW):
- A Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field is required.
- Relevant work or volunteer experience in a social service setting is highly recommended.
- Master of Arts in Communication Studies:
- A Bachelor’s degree in communication or a closely related field is required.
- Applicants may need to submit a writing sample showcasing their academic or professional work.
Graduate Application Deadlines
Graduate application deadlines vary depending on the program, but general deadlines include:
- Fall Semester: Priority deadline is March 1.
- Spring Semester: Priority deadline is November 1.
International Student Admissions Requirements
ASU West welcomes international students and offers comprehensive support throughout the application and visa process. International applicants must meet the same general requirements as domestic students, with additional documentation related to visa eligibility and English proficiency.
General Application Requirements for International Students
International applicants must submit the following materials:
- Completed Application: International students can apply via the ASU Application or the Common Application. The application fee for international students is $85.
- Official Transcripts: Transcripts must be submitted from all secondary and post-secondary institutions attended. Transcripts should be translated into English, if necessary.
- Proof of English Proficiency: Non-native English-speaking applicants must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores, unless they have completed schooling in an English-speaking country. Minimum score requirements include:
- TOEFL iBT: 61
- IELTS: 6.0
- Duolingo: 95
- Financial Guarantee: International students must submit proof of financial support to cover the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one academic year.
- Passport Copy: A copy of the passport identification page is required to process the visa application.
Visa Documentation
Upon acceptance, international students will need to obtain an F-1 student visa. The following documents are necessary to receive the I-20 form required for the visa:
- Proof of Financial Support: Official bank statements or sponsor letters showing sufficient funds.
- I-20 Application Form: Completed after admission.
International Application Deadlines
To allow sufficient time for visa processing, international students should apply early. Recommended deadlines are:
- Fall Admission: May 1
- Spring Admission: November 1
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Arizona State University-West is committed to making education affordable for all students, offering a wide range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
Types of Financial Aid
- Need-Based Aid: Students should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for federal and state financial aid programs. ASU’s FAFSA code is 001081.
- Merit-Based Scholarships: ASU West offers a variety of merit-based scholarships for students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Some scholarships include:
- New American University Scholarship: Awarded to high-achieving students based on academic performance.
- Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) Scholarship: A scholarship for students from participating states, offering reduced tuition rates.
- Work-Study Programs: Eligible students may participate in federal work-study programs to earn money toward educational expenses through part-time employment.
Veterans and Military Students
ASU West is proud to support veterans and military-affiliated students by offering tailored resources and educational benefits.
Veterans Education Benefits
- Post-9/11 GI Bill: ASU accepts Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to help veterans cover tuition and fees.
- Yellow Ribbon Program: ASU participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which provides additional financial support for veterans whose tuition exceeds the amount covered by the GI Bill.
Support Services for Military Students
The Pat Tillman Veterans Center at ASU West offers assistance to military-affiliated students, including guidance on VA benefits, academic advising, and career services.
Admissions Contact Information
For more information about the admissions process or to ask specific questions, contact the Arizona State University-West Admissions Office:
Arizona State University-West Admissions Office
4701 West Thunderbird Road
Glendale, AZ 85306
Phone: (602) 543-5500
Email: admissions@asu.edu
Website: www.west.asu.edu