Graduate Studies

Admission Process

Are you ready to submit your graduate application to WIU? If so, please click the “Apply Now” button to begin the process. 

Minimum Admission Requirements

The minimum GPA requirement for admission as a non-degree, post-baccalaureate certificate or master’s degree student is 2.75 overall (based on all hours attempted) or a 3.0 for the last two years (60 s.h.) of undergraduate work. Further details for all degree programs can be viewed here. Several graduate programs have higher admission requirements which are outlined on the departmental requirements chart.

Steps in the Admission Process

  1. Submit an application.
    We have an online application process with a $30 application fee for new domestic graduate students. Application fee waivers are granted to current or past U.S. military personnel, and McNair Scholars. International and Temporary Protected Status applicants can apply here.

  2. Request official transcripts to be sent to the School of Graduate Studies.
    Applicants to degree programs or post-baccalaureate certificate programs must have official transcripts sent to the School of Graduate Studies. All transcripts, including any transfer work, will be required. WIU transcripts and any transfer credit on file in the Registrar’s Office do not need to be requested as our staff has access to those records. Non-degree seeking applicants must submit either an official degree transcript or a statement of degree.

  3. Submit required departmental documentation.
    Degree-seeking applicants must be aware of additional departmental requirements for the program of interest and submit all required documents prior to the file being evaluated and forwarded to the academic department for admission consideration. Those requirements may be viewed here. Visit departmental websites or contact the academic department for full details.

  4. Watch your email for updates and notifications from the School of Graduate Studies.
    You will receive various email notifications from our office as you progress through the admission process. We will keep you informed if your file is missing documents, when the file has been evaluated and sent on to the academic department for consideration, and again when we hear back from the department on a decision. 

  5. Receive an official notification letter from the School of Graduate Studies.
    Our office will mail an official letter to you via the postal service once an acceptance decision has been made by the academic department or you have met admission requirements as a non-degree graduate student. If accepted, you will also receive a tri-fold brochure from the Office of the Registrar which includes your WIU ID # and other important information about registering for courses.