New Student Checklist

Welcome! We created this checklist to help you start your journey at UW Tacoma. Let’s get started:

  1. Apply for VA Education Benefits
    If you’re a veteran, active-duty servicemember, or a qualified dependent, you may be eligible for VA assistance with tuition.
    • Apply through the GI Bill® Benefits page. After applying, the VA will send you a Certificate of Eligibility by mail. Please submit a copy to the Veteran and Military Resource Center.
    • If you’re applying for Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31), request a meeting at uwtinfo@uw.edu.
  2. Contact the UW Tacoma Admissions Office
    Reach out at uwtinfo@uw.edu and have your unofficial transcripts handy (high school, any colleges attended, and a Joint Service Transcript). You can request your JST at the JST website.
  3. Apply to UW Tacoma
    Start your application here. Use CollegeNET to create an account and submit a nonrefundable application fee. You can save your progress and complete it at your own pace.
  4. Create Your UW NetID
    After submitting your application, set up your MyUW account and UW email address. This will be the main way the university communicates with you.
  5. Receive Your "Offer of Admission" Letter
    You’ll get your admission decision within 4-6 weeks after completing your application.
  6. Pay the New Student Enrollment and Orientation Fee
    We encourage you to pay the non-refundable New Student Enrollment and Orientation Fee (NSEOF) within two weeks of your offer. If you’re a GI Bill® recipient, you may defer this fee until your first quarter's tuition.
  7. Contact the Veteran and Military Resource Center (VMRC)
    Our team is here to help with any questions about the steps above. Visit our VMRC page or email uwtva@uw.edu.
  8. Provide Proof of Immunization
    All new students must show proof of certain vaccinations or request an exemption. You can use your DD-214 or DD-2766 forms. For more details, check the Immunity Verification Program website or email immunity@uw.edu.
  9. Attend Orientation
    You must participate in an orientation program before your first quarter and to receive your UW Husky ID card. Sign up for orientation online.
  10. Contact Your Academic Advisor
    All new freshmen need to meet with an academic advisor. This is also highly recommended for transfer students. Find your advisor in the Undergraduate Advising Directory.
  11. Register for Classes
    Check the Time Schedule about three weeks before registration opens. First-year students must meet with their advisor before registering, while transfer students can register first but are encouraged to meet with their advisor regularly.
  12. Start Your Classes
    The VMRC is here to support you with your military educational benefits. Let us know about any changes in your enrollment.
  13. Complete the Online Certification Request
    Each quarter, request certification for your VA educational benefits through MyUW. You’ll receive a confirmation email from the VA once certified.

If you have any questions about your benefits, check out the VA’s official website for more information. We’re excited to have you here!