Freshman Class profile
Washburn University is a premier public institution recognized as a community leader in providing a superior student-centered, teaching-focused learning experience while preparing you for success in your chosen profession. Washburn offers more than 200 academic programs leading to certificate, associate, bachelor, master's and doctor of nursing practice and juris doctor degrees.
Since its founding in 1865, Washburn University has provided a place where you can realize your dreams. Regular admission standards are based on a combination of high school grade point average (GPA) and ACT scores. Staying true to our heritage, we provide the opportunity for all committed learners to access a quality education. Learn more about our admissions standards.
We welcome a diverse student body
African American |
6 percent |
American Indian |
<5 percent |
Asian |
<5 percent |
Caucasian |
69 percent |
Pacific Islander |
<5 percent |
Multiracial |
5 percent |
Enrolled directly from high school |
87 percent |
Delayed entry |
13 percent |
Average Age |
19 |
Percent 25 or older |
<5 percent |
Percent 20-24 |
5 percent |
Percent 18-19 |
89 percent |
Percent Under 18 |
<5 percent |

Our freshmen come from Kansas, 18 other states and around the world
Kansas |
87 percent |
Other states |
11 percent |
Other countries |
<5 percent |
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First-generation college student |
46 percent |
Veterans |
<5 percent |
Legacy students |
12 percent |
Our freshmen are academically prepared
Staying true to our mission as an open enrollment institution that provides opportunity and access to all, we provide services to students who may not meet our regular admission standards.
Regular admits |
86 percent |
Other admits |
14 percent |
Our freshmen perform well academically
Average high school GPA
|
3.34
|
Average ACT composite score |
21.8
|
- 11% of the freshmen were in the top 10 of their high school graduating class.
- <5% of freshman earned valedictorian honors
Our freshmen are successful
The vast majority of our full-time freshmen who met our regular admissions standards in Fall 2016 returned in Fall 2017.

Freshmen engaged in campus activities are even more successful

Taking into account all full-time freshmen, including those admitted by exception, Washburn out-performs other open enrollment institutions

By 2015, 63 percent of our fall 2009 full-time freshmen had either graduated or were still working toward a degree

Our Freshmen choose several routes to success
Full-time |
94 percent |
Part-time |
6 percent |
Average hours enrolled |
13.2 |
Enrolled with some college credit |
52 percent |
Live on campus |
54 percent |
Areas of study
Business |
8 percent |
Education |
<5 percent |
Fine & Performing Arts |
<5 percent |
Health Professions |
18 percent |
Liberal Arts & Humanities |
6 percent |
Physical Sciences |
10 percent |
Social Services |
6 percent |
Exploring majors |
46 percent |
Our freshmen are actively engaged in campus and community activities
Student Employment |
24 percent |
Intercollegiate Athletics |
13 percent |
Honors Program |
<5 percent |
Leadership Institute |
<5 percent |
Greek Life |
17 percent |
A Washburn education is affordable
Without financial aid, we estimate it costs approximately $21,030 per year to attend Washburn.

82 percent of our full-time freshmen received financial assistance from a variety of sources, averaging nearly $6,779 per year in aid
Students may receive aid from more than one source.
- 39 percent of full-time freshmen received a federal grant; average award was $4,805
- 14 percent of full-time freshmen received a state grant; average award was $1,501
- 64 percent of full-time freshmen received an institutional scholarship; average award was $5,344
- 51 percent of full-time freshmen received a federal loan; average award was $5,094
- <5 percent of full-time freshmen received aid from other sources, average award was $9,083
Note: Grants and scholarships are gift awards that do not have to be repaid.