Students standing in front of a building excited for college

Next Steps

Welcome to Central Washington University

You’re in and now it’s time to make it official.

This page will guide you through the key steps to get ready for life as a Wildcat. From securing your spot to planning your move, each step brings you closer to an unforgettable college experience. Whether you're the type to color-code a checklist or just need the highlights, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get you ready for day one at CWU. Your future starts now.

Your Next Steps:

And then... you’ll be ready to hit the ground running on day one as a Wildcat!

Your Next Steps

Step 1: Accept Your Admissions

Let us know you're in!

  • Log in to your Applicant Portal using the same email and password you used when applying.
    • Or, if you’ve already created your MyCWU account, log in there and click “Accept/Decline” in your Admissions Toolbox.
  • Once you accept, you'll unlock access to housing, orientation, and scholarship opportunities.

Priority application date for Fall 2026: January 1st, 2026

Haven’t applied yet? Apply to CWU and become a Wildcat!

Step 2: Set Up MyCWU and Your CWU Email

MyCWU is your all-in-one student portal — where you’ll register for classes, check financial aid, and access housing, support services, and more.

  • Visit MyCWU to update your account.
  • Look for an email titled “Information regarding your MyCWU account” from [email protected] with your username and CWU ID.
  • Your application login and your CWU account login are different — keep both passwords safe.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is required to access your CWU account. We recommend using the Microsoft Authenticator App on your phone. You can also choose a phone call as your method of verification.

If you change phones, you'll need to re-register your device.

Check Your CWU Outlook Email

Your CWU Outlook email is your primary way to receive updates from Financial Aid, Advising, Housing, and more. Check it often.

  • Access it through the MyCWU portal or by going to Microsoft365.com.
    • Add it to your smartphone for easy access.
  • You’ll lose access to this account after graduation, so use it while you’ve got it!

Need help? Call the CWU Service Desk at 509-963-2001.

Step 3: Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

Submit your FAFSA or WASFA to get started on financial aid. FAFSA, WASFA, and Scholarship Central applications open October 1, 2025, and while there’s no official deadline, it’s best to apply early.

Accept your aid package:

  • Once awarded, log into MyCWU → Financial Toolbox → Accept/Decline Awards. 

Taking out loans? Contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Step 4: Apply for Housing

First-year students are required to live on campus.

The housing application opens in February 2026 — apply early for the best room selection and choose your meal plan at the same time.

  • Final deadline: August 2026 — after that, a room will be assigned automatically.

Explore Residence Halls and Dining Options to learn more.

Transfer students: You’re not required to live on campus, but check out our Transfer Living-Learning Community and apartment options.

Step 5: Prepare for Advising and Placement

Get set for success by completing your Pre-Advising Questionnaire and any required placement assessments.

  • First-year students: Fill out the Pre-Advising Questionnaire before attending New Student Orientation.
  • Transfer students: You can register now — schedule an advising appointment.

Your advisor will let you know if you need to complete the Writing Directed Self-Placement or Math/Quantitative Reasoning assessment. 

If you need academic or housing accommodations, be sure to connect with Disability Services.

Step 6: Attend Orientation

Orientation is your official welcome to CWU.

  • New Student Orientation is required for all first-year students attending the Ellensburg campus. You’ll register through your Applicant Portal and take part in course registration, info sessions, and activities to help you prepare for Move-In and Week of Welcome.
  • Virtual Orientation is recommended for students starting in Winter or Spring terms, as well as online or center-based students. You’ll register after completing your Pre-Advising Questionnaire.
  • Transfer Orientation is required for all Ellensburg-based transfer students. You’ll explore transfer-specific resources and meet faculty, staff, and fellow transfer students.

Week of Welcome

This multi-day experience connects you with other students and helps you start strong, with a lot of fun along the way.

Required for all Ellensburg first-year students.

You belong at CWU

CWU orientation is vital for you as a student to familiarize yourself with resources and gain a sense of belonging in your academic journey. Receive clarity on academics and activities to boost your confidence for university life through orientation.

Learn more about Orientation

Get Ready for Day One

Make sure you’ve got everything you need — from textbooks and your student ID to parking permits and required trainings — so you can start your first day at CWU feeling confident and prepared.
Buy Course MaterialsUse financial aid at the Wildcat Shop. You'll find required materials listed in Canvas and from your professors.

  • Get Your CWU Connection CardUpload your photo via the GET Mobile App or GET website.
  • Pick up your ID when you arrive on campus.
  • Complete Your Canvas Modules. Required “Culture of Respect” trainings on:Sexual violence prevention
    • Hazing prevention
    • Diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Buy Your Parking Permit (if needed)

CWU News

Flyer for tonight's talk featuring the information below.

CWU to host nationally recognized conservationist tonight at The Ridge

May 11, 2026 by

Delaney Cobbs and Kivima Acevedo pose at the WSAND conference

Two CWU Nutrition students earn awards from leading national organization

May 11, 2026 by

More News

Ready? Let's go.

Questions? Contact Us.

Office of Admissions

Bouillon Hall 202