Apply to WSU
When you know... you know. You’ve done your research and you know that we’ve got what you’ve been searching for.
From our outstanding historical designation as oldest member of the Minnesota State system, to our stunning natural setting, to our “smedium” size, we’ve got everything you want. A great future is waiting for you at Winona State University.
Our application process is quick and easy.
But if you do have questions, give us a call at 507.457.5100 or send us an email at admissions@winona.edu. That’s what we’re here for!
With our quick-decision time, you’ll find out if you’ve been accepted within two to three weeks.
Application Now Open
Want to start Winona State University in 2021? Applications for Fall 2021 are now open, and it takes just 15-20 minutes to take the next step in your journey.
Create your Transfer Action Plan or contact the WSU Admissions team for help.
Freshman Application Checklist
Resilience | Yes |
Determination | Yes |
Completed Application | Yes |
High School Transcript | Yes |
$20 Application Fee | Yes |
ACT/SAT Score (If Available) | No |
How to Apply
Pay Your Application Fee
Please follow these instructions to pay the application fee using your credit card. You will need your StarID and password to log in.
- Visit eServices
- On the left side, select "Log in"
- You may need to activate your StarID before using it
- Enter your StarID and password
- On the left side find Bills and Payments – the $20 application fee should appear as an outstanding payment
- Make a payment and enter your credit card information
Send Your Transcripts
High School Transcripts
Freshman and Transfer Students with less than 24 college credits after high school or if you have attended a technical college only, will need to submit official high school transcripts or GED documentation.
College Transcripts
Request official transcripts from each non-Minnesota State College/University. If you have attended a Minnesota State College/Universities, WSU will retrieve your transcript from our database.
Transcripts can be sent to admissions@winona.edu or mail them to:
WSU Admissions PO Box 5838
Winona, MN 55987-5838
Guaranteed Admission
If you are a student with a 3.00 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale, you will be guaranteed admission to Winona State.
If you do not meet this requirement--don't worry, we still encourage you to apply.
Your application will be individually reviewed to determine your potential for success at WSU based on the strength of your GPA and your academic progression. WSU may also request additional information before an admission decision is made.
If your application is denied, you may appeal this decision. The appeals process requires you to write a personal statement, letters of recommendation from at least two different teachers, counselors, or coaches and an updated transcript or additional information that supports your appeal.
ACT/SAT Test Scores
Winona State does not require ACT/SAT scores for admission.
However, first-year and transfer students with less than 24 transferable credits are encouraged to send scores if they have taken either test.
ACT/SAT scores help determine placement in math, English and foreign language courses and may help you qualify for certain scholarships.
You can send WSU these scores in two ways:
- Select WSU at your test: ACT code 2162/SAT code: 6680
- Ask ACT or SAT to send an official score to WSU
Expect 7-10 business days for processing your scores once they are received.
Track Your Application
Once your application is completed you will have online access to track your application via MyWSU.
Students are mailed a decision 2-3 weeks after all information is received.
You should use myWSU to track your admissions process and RSVP for programs as well as check your email for important messages from WSU.
Remember that admission to WSU does not always mean you are admitted into a major/program.
Heads Up
Your application will not be processed until your transcript and fees are received.
If you need to change your address, phone number or major after you have submitted your application, contact us at WSUFreshman@winona.edu.
Post-Secondary Enrollment Option Application
You’re ready for college credit and we’ve got what you need.
Post-Secondary Enrollment Option (PSEO) allows you to take college level credits that count towards high school credit.
Learn more about applying to the Winona State PSEO program.
International Student Application
From a welcoming community to breathtaking natural beauty, Winona is the place for you.
Become an international student at Winona State by completing the International Student Application.
The application takes approximately 3-4 weeks to process so apply early to ensure time for your visa, interview and to coordinate your travel plans.
Adult Entry Application
Finish what you started. If you’re looking to finish your degree you’ve come to the right place.
Our Adult Entry Process allows you to turn prior learning into credits and get personalized advising.
Learn more about applying to the Adult Entry Process.
Guest Student Application
Be our guest. Sometimes you just want to take a class but do not intend to be formally admitted to Winona State.
Guest students can attend for one term and complete a new registration agreement each term.
Apply as a guest student (PDF) at Winona State.
School of Graduate Studies Application
Interested in advancing your degree and your career? WSU has the programs and dedicated faculty to help you succeed.
Get started today by reviewing the steps to complete a Graduate Student Application.
Intent to Return Application
Past WSU students who have not attended the University for one semester or more (summer excluded) are classified as "returning" students.
Returning students must complete the re-enrollment process, which is done online or at the Warrior Hub (Maxwell 2nd Floor).