Apply to Exploratory Pathways Program
Welcome! We are excited you’ve decided to apply.
The admission process differs depending on your current relationship with UWW and UMass Amherst. We put together the following guide to assist you.
Which Form Do I Use?
All applicants should use the UWW Undergraduate Admissions Application with the exception of former University Without Walls (UWW) or Continuing & Professional Education (CPE) students who were matriculated and enrolled in classes as part of a UMass Amherst UWW/CPE program but did not complete their degree. These applicants should use the UWW Undergraduate Reactivation Form instead.
NOTE: If you were matriculated into a UWW/CPE program but never enrolled in any classes, use the UWW Undergraduate Admissions Application.
The Basics
Admission to the Exploratory Pathways Program is contingent upon the following:
- 3.0 High School cumulative GPA minimum
The successful completion of required high school courses at a level consistent with the university’s admissions standards as shown below. The following minimum subject matter requirements must be met:
- English: 4 units
- Mathematics (Algebra II minimum): 4 units, including math in the senior year of high school
- Natural Science (3 labs): 3 units
- Social Science (one course in US history): 2 units
- Foreign Language: 2 units of same language
- Electives (from areas above, arts and humanities, or computer science): 2 units
While the primary criteria for admission are the high school transcript and SAT/ACT scores, other criteria, including the level of academic challenge, extracurricular activities, work, etc., are also considered.
| Starting Semester | Early Application ($60 Application Fee) |
Regular Application |
|---|---|---|
| Fall | May 1 | June 1 |
| Spring | October 1 | November 1 |
| Summer | March 1 | March 15 |
Admissions are done on a rolling basis.
In order to be considered for admission, please make sure that all of the required application materials are received by the following date:
| Semester | Deadline |
| Fall | July 1 |
| Spring | December 1 |
| Summer | April 1 |
Applications are not considered complete and cannot be reviewed until we have received all required materials. Complete applications are reviewed in the order in which they are received.
Review the International Applicant Guide prior to submitting your application for admission to one of the UWW Programs.
Required Materials
The following materials are required when applying to this program. Some of these are collected as part of the application.
NOTE: For those applicants using the UWW Undergraduate Reactivation form to apply, please refer to the application for any required materials as they may be different than those noted below.
- Essay: In about 100 words, describe how your past experiences have led you to apply to UWW and, in another 100 words, tell us more about what you're interested in studying and why.
- Official Transcript(s): Submit official college transcripts from all colleges you have previously attended, regardless of whether credit is desired. UMass Amherst accepts electronic transcripts from official third parties (eScrip-Safe, Parchment, etc.) or directly from the Registrar's office of the issuing school. Student-submitted transcripts are not accepted. Transcripts can be sent to the UWW Admissions, UMass Amherst, 350 Campus Center Way, Amherst, MA 01003-2902 or email to @email. Maximum transfer credit is 75 semester credits.
- High School Transcripts or GED Scores (if less than 27 transferable college credits)
- English Language Proficiency Documentation
If English is not your first language, please review our English Language Proficiency Requirements.
- International Transcript(s), if applicable.
If you have attended a post-secondary college or university, official transcripts are required whether or not transfer credit is desired. International Students: Please review our International Applicant's Guide.
What Happens After I Apply?
Following receipt of your application, you will be sent an email with further information. Within 5-6 business days, you will also receive credentials that will allow you to log into our student information system (SPIRE) where you will be able to check the status of your application and missing materials, if applicable.
NOTE: Application review will not take place until we have received all required materials in our office. It is essential for you to check the status of your application and remit any materials as quickly as possible. Decisions are generally determined within 4-6 weeks from the start of application review.
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