First-year application process

Apply now to begin your future at Wayne State University. Our streamlined application process includes flexible apply options, a clear enrollment timeline and plenty of opportunities to contact our admissions counselors with any questions. Follow our application checklist and note important Wayne State deadlines to join our spirited campus of diverse, exceptional and curious learners.

First-year undergraduate applicant checklist

To get started at Wayne State University, follow these four steps. If you want to major in music, theatre, or dance you'll also need to schedule an audition or interview through the department.

Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Wayne State University
P.O. Box 02759
Detroit, MI 48202

Test optional

If you are a first-year student who has not taken the SAT or ACT, or you do not want your scores considered as part of your application, you can pursue the test-optional pathway for fall 2024. This will not impact your eligibility for merit scholarships. To help us in our holistic application review, students who select this option will be required to:

  • Complete short essay questions using one of the two available prompts
  • Submit a complete list of leadership activities, extracurricular activities, community involvement and work experience
  • A recommendation form from an academic reference is optional

Common App materials, including the activities section, letters of recommendation and the essay, may satisfy the test-optional requirements. Students completing the Common App should check their WSU-specific application status portal for a list of outstanding requirements.

Admitted students may need to complete placement testing at Wayne State to determine appropriate course placement. Students that apply test-optional will be considered for merit scholarships.

The application review process

When our admissions office reviews your application, we look at your experience holistically to ensure that as many students as possible, have access to the best education we can offer. In addition to your academic performance, we are interested in who you are in all dimensions. Your extracurricular activities, home responsibilities, work commitments and social engagements all contribute to your success at Wayne State. Typically, you should receive an admission decision after October 1. If you apply after October 1, you should receive an admission decision within two to three weeks after submitting your application or any outstanding materials. Check for it on your application status page, using the email address and password created for your applicant profile page.

Still have questions? Contact us in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Important application deadlines

Your Wayne State University application deadline will vary depending on which semester you plan to start classes:

  • Fall (September-December) Aug. 1
  • Winter (January-April) Dec. 1
  • Spring/summer (May-August) April 1 

You will be automatically considered for a merit-based scholarship when you apply.

Class of 2027 profile

The average WSU student is dedicated to collaboration and communal growth, diversity and inclusion, and excellence in innovation. No matter your background, at Wayne State University you'll find communities that share your values and are dedicated to helping you grow. While we welcome all kinds of students, you might be curious about our current academic averages among the incoming class:

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ACT score: 25

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SAT score: 1154

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High school GPA: 3.44

Once you've been admitted

We look forward to welcoming you to Wayne State University. After you receive your acceptance, learn more about your next steps to becoming a Warrior.

AP, CLEP, and IB credits

All of your work in high school is notable, so when applying to Wayne State University, you can submit an unlimited combination of AP, CLEP, and IB tests as transferable credit hours toward your degree.

Apply to Wayne State University

Ready to pursue your dreams as a Warrior?

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Or contact us to learn more about the admission process.