Bearcat Counselor CONNECTION
WHAT’S NEW
NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
This fall, we’ll officially launch the following academic programs: WILLAMETTE COLLEGE
Statistics: A major or minor in statistics allows students to learn more about the mathematical side of data analysis and can provide a foundation for graduate study in computer or data science. Graduates will gain proficiency in R, the most widely used programming language in data analysis, and delve into the world of statistical modeling and machine learning. The foundation of this, and all Willamette degrees, remains in the liberal arts so that students will develop critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills.
SCHOOL OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SCIENCES
Master’s in Computer Science: This fall we welcome the first cohort for this program. Designed for students without a technical background, the program takes a holistic view of computing, considering not just functionality, but the interaction between systems and humans. A dual-degree program will launch in fall
2025 to join our existing accelerated offerings in business, data science and law.
ACCESS HIGHLIGHTS
COMPETITIVE SCHOLARSHIPS
Applicants are encouraged to apply to one or more of Willamette’s Competitive Scholarships, which stack on top of merit-based awards. Scholarships are offered in areas of talent and academic interest, including computer and data science, debate, music, theatre, studio art, public health and environmental studies. Our STEM Scholarship, funded in part by the National Science Foundation, will offer expanded opportunities for fall 2025 entry. All scholarships, except for computer and data science, require a separate application and additional materials.
ACCESS TO EXCELLENCE (A2E)
Our fully-funded fly-in program for admitted students provides the opportunity for approximately 75 students, and a guest, to join us on campus for Bearcat Day, our admitted student event, and extend their stay for A2E. Students should look for more information after they’ve completed their application for admission.
1,525
View all majors and academic programs at: willamette.edu/go/all-majors
Leaders Award
EARLY ACTION/ EARLY DECISION
$1000 Annual Scholarship
Pathfinders Award
REGULAR
$500 Annual Scholarship
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
• Common Application or Coalition with Scoir Application
• Application Essay and Willamette Supplement Questions
• Official High School Transcript
• School Report and Counselor Recommendation
OPTIONAL APPLICATION MATERIALS
• School Profile
• Teacher Recommendation (encouraged)
• SAT/ACT Scores
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
• Proof of English Proficiency
• Passport Photo Identification Page
• Financial Guarantee Statement
WILLAMETTE HAS BEEN TEST OPTIONAL SINCE 2017
Shared SAT/ACT scores serve as an additional credential to help us understand the applicant as a whole and cannot negatively impact an applicant’s merit aid. Transcripts, course rigor, essay, activities list, and recommendations are the most important indicators of admissibility and merit awarding. Students may submit self-reported or unofficial scores to complete their application. For all enrolling students, we require submission of official test scores either on the final high school transcript or from the College Board or ACT.
AI GENERATED WRITING, INCLUDING CHATGPT
While Willamette understands that the use of AI programs, such as ChatGPT, are tools that can be helpful in the writing process, an applicant should not submit an essay in which any portion of the writing has been generated by anyone except the individual applicant. Use of AI to organize an outline or basic list of ideas at the preliminary stage of the writing process is acceptable; use of anyone’s wording, thoughts, grammar or written work in essay form – AI or human – other than that of the applicant is strongly discouraged.
PRIOR COLLEGE CREDIT
Willamette accepts up to 32 credits (equivalent to one year) for first-year students who’ve completed college-level courses through dual-enrollment or earned a qualifying score on AP or IB HL exams.
SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID
Merit-based scholarships start at $22,000 per year and are awarded to all students at the point of admission. Scholarships are based on materials submitted on the application, including demonstrated academic achievement (grades and rigor in context of the student and school), writing, and extracurricular activities.
All merit-based and competitive scholarships can be stacked with awards from outside organizations. All students are eligible for on-campus employment.
Willamette only utilizes the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). We encourage all students to submit the FAFSA when it becomes available. The offer of need-based financial aid will be sent along with the offer of admission if a student’s FAFSA is on file at that time.
VISIT CAMPUS
We offer three daily visit opportunities each featuring an information session and student-led campus tour. Let us know you’re going to be in the area, and we’ll also ensure time to talk after your tour on any specific questions you have about Willamette.
Haven’t visited in a while? We’ll also cover one night of lodging at The Grand Hotel in downtown Salem.
CONTACT US
Office of Admissions
Willamette University 900 State St Salem, OR 97301 bearcat@willamette.edu 844-BEARCAT 503-370-6303
Find your admission counselor at willamette.edu/go/meet-our-team