University News
WIU to Increase Admissions Standards
April 25, 2013
MACOMB, IL -- Beginning with the Fall 2014 semester, Western Illinois University will increase admissions standards for new freshmen. The University's Council of Admission, Graduation, and Academic Standards and the Faculty Senate recently voted to support the change in admissions standards, with the approval of President Jack Thomas and Provost and Academic Vice President Ken Hawkinson.
According to Admissions Director Andy Borst, the new admissions standards will be based primarily on previous academic achievement (measured by high school grade point average) and future academic potential (measured by ACT composite score). Applicants who are on the margins of the new admissions standards will be given a comprehensive evaluation including a review of a personal statement, recommendations, academic goals, core academic classes and consideration for other circumstances.
"Great universities demonstrate a deep understanding of their students. Our new admissions standards represent students who have the greatest potential for academic success," Thomas noted. "This change in admissions standards represents a multi-year analysis of our students. WIU will continue to place our priorities firmly on student success. While we are increasing our admissions standards, we will continue to be committed to our core value of educational opportunity for those who demonstrate the potential to succeed."
According to Hawkinson, with so much uncertainty surrounding higher education and with the State of Illinois' budget situation, the new admissions standards are another example of Western's efforts that allow students and families to better plan.
"Our admissions criteria, our scholarships and our four-year cost lock-in and graduation guarantees are set so students and families can prepare. From the moment students step onto our campus, they will know what to expect in order to graduate," Hawkinson added. "Students will know if they can be admitted to WIU, and they'll know if they qualify for Western Commitment Scholarships. Students have the peace of mind knowing that their tuition, fees, room and board will not change for four years. And depending on their majors, they'll have a guaranteed degree plan to graduate in four years through our GradTrac program. Students come to Western Illinois University knowing they will receive a quality and affordable education at WIU."
Western Illinois University will present the new admissions standards to high school guidance counselors at the annual Illinois Association of College Admission Counseling articulation conferences throughout the state in September.
For more information about admissions standards at WIU, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at (309) 298-3100, or email admissions@wiu.edu.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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