The University of Mary Washington’s admission process for fall 2025 is underway, with several important dates upcoming. For prospective students and their families, staying on top of deadlines can simplify the application journey and maximize scholarship and program opportunities. Important information for applicants includes:
Early Decision: Nov. 1. The first critical date in the UMW admission cycle is Nov. 1, the Early Decision filing deadline. This option is ideal for students who have decided that UMW is their first choice. By choosing Early Decision, students make a binding commitment to enroll if admitted. Applicants meeting this deadline can expect an admission decision by Dec. 15, just before the holiday season.
Early Action and Honors: Nov. 15. The filing deadline is Nov. 15 for Early Action, a non-binding choice that allows applicants to receive an admissions decision early in the new year. This option is recommended for students considering the University’s Honors Program or any special cohort program, as these opportunities often prioritize early applicants.
FAFSA and Financial Aid: Dec. 1. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens on Dec. 1 and completing it early can be beneficial for all applicants, especially Pell-eligible families in Virginia. UMW offers a Tuition Promise program to support Virginia students from eligible families, making FAFSA completion a crucial step for those who qualify.
Early Decision Deposit: Jan. 15. For those admitted through Early Decision, a deposit is due by Jan. 15. This date secures a student’s spot in the incoming class and allows UMW to begin preparing for their arrival in the fall.
Early Action Decision Notification: Jan. 31. Students who applied by the Early Action deadline will receive their admission decision by Jan. 31. These applicants have until the spring to decide whether to attend UMW, providing time to consider financial aid packages and scholarships.
Merit Scholarships and Regular Decision Deadline: Feb. 1. UMW automatically considers all first-year applicants for merit scholarships, regardless of whether they are in-state, out-of-state or if SAT or ACT scores are submitted. For students who need additional time to finalize applications, Feb. 1 is the Regular Decision filing deadline.
Enrollment Deposit for Early Action and Regular Decision: May 1. The final step for students admitted through Early Action or Regular Decision is to confirm enrollment by May 1. This national decision deadline allows UMW to welcome a diverse incoming class and for students to prepare for their transition to campus life.
To help prospective students strengthen their applications, UMW’s admissions team offers “Tip Tuesday” videos on Instagram to provide insights on the admissions process, including advice on essay writing and information on campus resources. Students and families are encouraged to explore these tips and reach out with questions as they navigate the college admissions journey. Applicants can find additional resources, including scholarship details and program descriptions by visiting umw.edu/admissions. To complete an application for admission to UMW, visit umw.edu/apply.
