New admissions guidelines
Evaluation of applicants
Our enhanced admissions policy is based on a holistic consideration of each student’s potential to succeed at a research University. We remain committed to the high academic standards that best prepare students for success following graduation.
Effective immediately, each application will be evaluated holistically, including full academic record, types of classes taken and grade trends, and personal history. Depending on the individual situation, applicants will also have an opportunity to submit optional essays and engage in personal interviews.
Starting with the winter 2013 semester, Wayne State’s admissions policy will no longer include minimum GPA or ACT score requirements and applications will be evaluated as described above. Minimum standards alone fail to provide an appropriate depth of information regarding potential students. Moving forward, Wayne State will provide average ACT/GPA scores for the admitted First Time In Any College (FTIAC) class as a general indicator of student preparedness requirements for WSU.
As with FTIAC admission, starting in winter 2013, our new transfer admissions guidelines are based on potential for success. Transfer students will be required to have at least 24 transferrable credits with grades of C or better, and a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA for all higher education institutions attended and all courses taken. Students who have completed an Associates Degree may be admitted with a grade point average of 2.0 or better. Transfer students with fewer than 24 transferable credits of previous college work must also meet the freshman admission requirements.
Admissions pathways
After a full assessment of their academic records, applicants will be placed in one of three categories:
Regular admission
Students with a strong record and good prospects for academic success will receive regular admission.
Special admission
Some students will require the assistance provided by special admission programs to take full advantage of the opportunities at Wayne State.
Bridge Program
The most comprehensive option for students with the most academic challenges is the Bridge Program, which begins in summer 2012 includes two options:
- Summer Bridge: An intensive, eight-week summer program that includes classes in mathematics, English and academic study skills. The program also includes a scholarship covering tuition, fees, housing and meals for five days a week. Students who successfully complete the Summer Bridge will matriculate to the fall semester and undertake a fully prescribed curriculum for three consecutive semesters, as well as receive an additional two years of dedicated academic advising, to ensure better retention and completion.
- Fall Bridge: Students who are unable to attend the Summer Bridge program but need additional levels of support will be required to enroll in the Fall Bridge, which includes the same academic and personal support as the summer program. The tuition, fees and other costs for the Fall Bridge can be covered by financial aid for those who qualify. Students who successfully complete the Fall Bridge will matriculate to the winter semester and undertake a fully prescribed curriculum for three consecutive semesters, as well as receive an additional two years of dedicated academic advising, to ensure better retention and completion.
APEX Scholars Program
Students needing additional support, but not to the extent of the Bridge Program students, will be enrolled in the APEX Scholars Program. In addition, all successful Bridge Program students will enter the APEX Scholars program as their next step. The program includes enhanced and consistent contact with an advisor and a prescribed curriculum for three consecutive semesters. Students who complete the program's 36 credit hours with a GPA of B or better may qualify for additional scholarships.
Referrals
Students who need additional skills prior to enrolling at Wayne State will be referred to the TRIO Educational Opportunity Center. This program will help guide students to the most appropriate alternative to immediately enrolling in a four-year research university. Some students will be referred to community colleges, or vocational or technical options.
These learning experiences empower TRIO students to overcome academic, social and cultural barriers and to possibly return to WSU at a later time.