Graduate Admissions

Admission Requirements

How to Apply

Application deadlines vary across academic programs. You should consult the academic department for more details.

Apply for 2025

If you want to begin graduate school in 2025, you’ll need to do the following: 

Step 1. Complete the online application for WSU Graduate Studies  

When completing the WSU Graduate Studies application, you can pause and save your progress if you’d like to come back later. 

But it often takes just 15 minutes or less! 

Step 2. Pay the application fee 

There’s a $20 application fee, which can be paid online. 

1. Log into eServices with your StarID and password. 
2. Select “Bills and Payments” from the main menu. The application fee should appear as an outstanding payment. 
3. Select the option to make a payment and enter your credit card information. 

Concerned about the application fee? Contact us at graduateadmissions@winona.edu 

Step 3. Send your transcripts 

WSU will automatically retrieve your transcripts from any Minnesota State colleges or universities you attended. 

You’ll need to request transcripts from each non-Minnesota State institution. 

Transcripts can be sent to admissions@winona.edu or mail them to: 

WSU Admissions PO Box 5838
Winona, MN 55987-5838 

Step 4. Apply to your graduate program 

Some graduate programs require another application once you’ve been accepted into WSU Graduate Studies.  

Consult the academic department for more information. 

Step 5. Track your application 

Can’t wait to see if you got in? 

You can check your application status any day, any time in the My Warrior Life portal. 

Once you’ve applied, you’ll find a checklist that outlines your next steps for financial aid, graduate assistantships, and more. 

Students are also emailed a decision soon after all information is received. 

Remember that admission to WSU Graduate Studies is the first step. You also must apply to the academic degree program, which may have additional admission requirements. 

Admission to WSU Graduate Studies does not mean admission to a degree or certificate program. 

Applications for a degree or certificate program will be reviewed by the academic department. You will be notified, in writing, if you are admitted or denied admission to the program. 

Apply for 2026

If you want to begin graduate school in 2026 or beyond, you’ll need to do the following: 

Step 1. Create your CAS account 

Create an account in GradCAS to get started.

Step 2. Select your program 

From Winona State’s list of graduate programs, click on the plus sign icon to add your desired program to your cart. 

Please note that applications in this system will not be live until January 2025, so you may not see your program if you try to apply sooner.

Step 3. Complete all sections of the CAS application 

You’ll need to include several details in your application, including personal information, academic history, supporting documents, and other program materials. 

Step 4. Upload all your documents and submit your application 

Each program may require different documents to complete an application. Make sure your documents are correct before submitting your application. 

Once you submit, you cannot make any changes or upload additional documents. 

Step 5. Pay the application fee 

There’s an application fee, which can be paid online through GradCAS. 

Your application won’t be processed until your transcript and fee payment are received.

If you have questions about the admission process, feel free to reach out at graduateadmissions@winona.edu.

Return to WSU Graduate Studies

If you were previously admitted to WSU Graduate Studies, then you can submit just the Re-Enrollment Request Form to pick up where you left off.