If you are a returning graduate student, you may complete a re-entry request form instead of an application unless you are changing your program of study or you are now interested in pursuing a degree or certificate. In these cases, you should contact the Admissions
staff for assistance.
Admissions Standards for Graduate Students
Your application to graduate school starts by selecting your program of study. While the information below pertains to most graduate programs, there may be additional admission requirements and application instructions for your selected program of study.
General Admission Requirements
In general, the requirements to be admitted include:
- An earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution;
- An overall undergraduate grade point average of at least 2.75 (on a four-point scale) or an average of at least 2.90 based on the last 64 semester credits (90 quarter credits) of the undergraduate program;
- Completed application received with $56 processing fee; and
- Any additional admissions requirements specific to your program of study
All documents are submitted to the Graduate Admissions Office, 112 South Hall, 410 S. Third Street, River Falls, WI 54022.
Application Checklist
Follow this checklist to ensure that your application process is accurate and complete.
Choose your program of study by reviewing the Graduate Catalog or contact the Graduate Studies office for assistance.
Apply online with the electronic UW System application form
. Note that some programs have admissions deadlines.
Pay the $56 application fee either by credit card or check. The fee is not required if you are not pursuing a degree or certificate.
Send in any additional admissions materials, if required for your program. Requirements will be described for each program of study at Graduate Programs.
Request transcripts from your past colleges or universities. These official documents must be sent directly from the institution to Graduate Admissions, 112 South Hall, 410 S. Third Street, River Falls, WI 54022.
Find out your financial aid options by visiting the Financial Aid web page or contacting the Financial Aid office.
When you’ve been admitted, you’ll be sent instructions on how to register for classes and other information necessary to begin your course of study.
Special Requirements
View any special admission requirements by selecting the type of student below.
For Returning Graduate Students
For International Graduate Students
For more information about applying as an international student, refer to Admissions for International Students.
For Transfer Students
Because of the unique nature of the program coursework, some of our graduate programs will not accept any transferred credits. For others, you are limited to transferring nine graduate credits and these credits must be approved by your advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies. Check with the program coordinator for specific information on transferring graduate credits.
To accept transfer credits, we must receive an official transcript from the institution listing the course taken. Transferring credits will not affect your probationary status. Distance-learning credits are eligible for transfer only if the course is accepted for a graduate degree program at the institution giving the credit.
For New Teaching Students
If you seeking an initial teaching certification, you will need to pass the PRAXIS II exam and apply for certification through the College of Education and Professional Studies, Teacher Education Department. Go to the college Web site for more details.
For Students on Probation
If your undergraduate grade point average was between 2.25 and 2.75, you may be admitted under probationary status.
Probationary status is available if you have earned six or more graduate credits, with a grade of "B" or better, from an accredited graduate school outside of the University of Wisconsin System, and you meet all other admissions requirements. You will remain on probation until you have completed nine graduate credits at UW-River Falls with grades of "B" or better.
Need Assistance?
Contact the Graduate Admissions staff for guidance with your program or admission process by calling 800-228-5607 or by sending an email today.
If you require a paper application form, you may request one by contacting the Graduate Admissions staff at 715-425-3500.