Central Washington University
Ellensburg, WA
Ellensburg, WA
Central Washington University: Your destination for a global education
Central Washington University (CWU) is a dynamic public university located in the friendly, historic town of Ellensburg, Washington. With a welcoming community of students from over 60 countries, CWU provides a safe, high-quality, and affordable American university experience for international undergraduates. CWU is committed to helping you make a smooth transition to life and study in the United States, offering all the support you need to reach your academic and career goals.
Academics that connect you to the world
At CWU, you can choose from over 150 undergraduate and graduate programs, including highly-regarded fields like Aviation, Computer Science, and World Languages and Cultures. The average student-to-faculty ratio is about 18:1, ensuring you get the personal attention and support necessary for success. The University's Office of International Studies and Programs (OISP) offers dedicated academic advising and immigration assistance, making sure you have all the resources for a nurturing learning experience. For those who need to strengthen their English skills, the University English as a Second Language (UESL) program is available to prepare you for full university admission.
Vibrant student life and support
Life at CWU is more than just classes. The main campus in Ellensburg is a beautiful environment that’s a great base for exploring the unique state of Washington. OISP hosts a variety of activities throughout the year, such as trips to Seattle, hiking excursions, and cultural events. A popular event is the International Café, which brings together international and domestic students, employees, and community members to interact and learn from one another. CWU is dedicated to making you feel at home as part of the Wildcat community, offering comprehensive International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) for guidance on everything from arrival orientation to employment options.
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Ranked #18 among the “Top Public Universities in the West” | U.S. News & World Report, 2025 |
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Ranked #32 among the “Best Value Universities" | U.S. News & World Report, 2025 |
Our main campus in Ellensburg, Washington, is the thriving center of our University family with residential housing, sprawling grounds, and extensive academic and campus life activities. CWU also comprises eight University Centers and Sites across the state, providing degree and certification options closer to home for students who may not be able to attend the traditional campus.
CWU understands the importance of affordability for international students. They offer a merit-based international student scholarship with awards of up to $12,000. All international students are automatically considered for these scholarships upon acceptance to the university, with no separate application needed. Additionally, CWU offers tuition discounts for non-resident undergraduate students with a high school or transfer GPA of 3.0 or higher. These awards significantly reduce the cost of attendance, making a top-quality American education more accessible.
Learn more about admission and scholarships.
