FAQ

How do I check my application status or see what items are missing from my application?

To see which items are missing from your application, to check when your documents have been received, or to view your admission decision, visit www.westga.edu/beginwest. Our office recommends that you check your application status at least 1-2 times a week after submitting your application.

When will I receive my admission decision?

Once we receive all required documents for your application, your admission decision will be available 5-10 business days later at www.westga.edu/beginwest.

How will I be notified about my admission decision?

You will receive a letter in the mail with your admission decision, or you can find your decision at www.westga.edu/beginwest.

I've been accepted! What do I do next?

We are so excited to welcome you to the Pack!

First, please visit OneLogin, click 'Forgot Password,' and follow the prompts to reset your password for your new student account.

Once your password is reset, log back in to your UWG OneLogin Portal to access your Go West Checklist. This checklist will guide you through all the steps you need to complete to start your semester at UWG! 

Note: Since classes and on-campus housing are first come first serve, we recommend registering for orientation and completing a housing contract as soon as possible.


Can I appeal my admission decision?

Yes. The admissions appeal policy at the University of West Georgia is designed to admit those students who have a reasonable chance of success and who seemingly will profit from the educational program of the university. A student is considered for admission without regard to race, creed, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin.

Admission requirements are those stated in the most current issue of the University of West Georgia Undergraduate Catalog. Whenever an applicant for admission or readmission to the undergraduate school is denied admission or feels his/her application has not been given due consideration, such applicant shall have the right to appeal.

You may submit an admission appeal using this form. Questions about the appeal process can be sent to zsmith@westga.edu.

 

How do I sign up for a campus tour? 

To schedule a visit to UWG, go to www.westga.edu/visit and sign up for a daily campus tour, Preview Day, or another upcoming special event.


I am bringing a large group to campus. How do I sign up for a group tour? 

Please contact Dillon Montes De Oca at dmontes@westga.edu to arrange a group tour of our campus.


What should I do if I signed up for a tour, but I can no longer come?

You are not required to formally cancel your tour registration if you're unable to come, but we recommend you contact us so we can help you schedule another tour. 

How do I send official transcripts, and how long does it take for UWG to receive them

All high school and college transcripts must be official in order for you to receive an admission decision. You may mail your transcripts or drop them off in person, as long as they remain in the original, sealed envelope from the school. You may also send official transcripts through an electronic transcript service, such as Parchment, e-Scrip Safe, or gafutures.org. Please do not fax transcripts or email them as PDF attachments. Please mail official transcripts in the original, sealed envelope from the school to the following address: Office of Undergraduate Admissions, 1601 Maple Street, Carrollton, GA 30118. It can take 1-2 weeks for our office to receive your transcripts, scores, and other documents; therefore, we recommend you send all required documents at least one month before our deadline.

How do I send SAT or ACT test scores, and how long does it take for UWG to receive them?

SAT or ACT scores must be sent electronically through the College Board or ACT website(s). We also accept SAT or ACT scores that are printed on your official high school transcripts along with the test date. All SAT or ACT subjects must have the same test date. Please do not email PDF attachments or screenshots of score reports. It can take 1-2 weeks for our office to receive your transcripts, scores, and other documents; therefore, we recommend you send all required documents at least one month before our deadline.

Which documents can I email or fax?

The following items may be faxed, emailed, mailed, delivered in person, or uploaded to your application online: MOWR participation agreements, letters of transient permission, lawful presence verification, social security cards, permanent resident cards, judicial questionnaires, update forms, transfer conditional acceptance contracts, and West in Thirty agreements.

Can I drop off my official documents at UWG Newnan instead of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions in Carrollton?

Absolutely! Keep in mind that items submitted at UWG Newnan take a few extra business days to be processed. The address for UWG Newnan is 80 Jackson Street, Newnan, GA 30263.

How do I pay my application fee?

If you didn't pay your application fee through your Begin West account or GAFutures, please visit westga.edu/appfeepay to submit your $40 application fee. A receipt will be emailed to you and our office once you've paid, and we'll update your application within a few business days to reflect your payment.

I am classified as out-of-state, but I believe I qualify for in-state tuition. What should I do?

Please contact our team at admiss@westga.edu.

How do I change my entry term or other information on my application?

To update your application, please complete the form at www.westga.edu/updatemyapp. Keep in mind that your first application update is free, but any subsequent update costs $40. Please note: You cannot change your term through your Begin West account.

How do I change my major?

Prior to enrollment, students can change their major during their scheduled orientation session. After attending orientation, students must notify the department of their new major and complete a Declaration of Major form. Depending on your major, you may need to return this completed form to Student Solutions.

What is judicial review, and why do I need to complete a judicial questionnaire?

Students who answer "yes" to disciplinary history questions are reviewed by the Office of Community Standards. If more information is needed, the Assistant Dean of Students will request a judicial questionnaire form. Please allow 1 - 2 weeks for the review of your questionnaire.

I lost my acceptance letter. Can I get another one mailed to me?

Absolutely! Just email admiss@westga.edu with your contact information, and we’ll send you another acceptance letter within 5-7 business days.

What is an academic credential evaluation?

Students who have attended an institution outside of the United States may be asked to submit an academic credential evaluation, which will translate the coursework abroad to the U.S. equivalent. We accept academic credential evaluations from any company affiliated with the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (www.naces.org). We highly recommend World Education Services and Josef Silny & Associates, Inc.

What should I do if I'm no longer interested in UWG?

You can visit westga.edu/cancelmyapp to formally cancel your application and stop communication. If you change your mind after canceling your application, simply email us at admiss@westga.edu so we can assist you.

How do I find out more information about orientation?

Orientation is mandatory for all incoming degree-seeking students. For more information, visit www.westga.edu/orientation, or contact Orientation at orientation@westga.edu or 678-839-5600.


How do I find out more information about housing?

All incoming freshmen and freshmen-transfers are required to live on campus, unless they are eligible for a residency waiver. For more information, visit www.westga.edu/housing, or contact Housing and Residence Life at housing@westga.edu or 678-839-6426.


How do I find out more information about financial aid?

For more information about financial aid, visit www.westga.edu/finaid, or contact the Office of Financial Aid at finaid@westga.edu or 678-839-6421.

FAQ

How is UWG going to operate in the fall?

  • UWG’s intent is to implement approaches and actions that will create an environment that is the most conducive to safe and effective interactions within the day-to-day operations and academics associated with the University of West Georgia.
  • The current working plan is for students, faculty, and staff to return to in-person operations and instruction for the Fall 2020 semester. However, plans have been developed if guidance is received to begin classes fully online or transition to online at some point during the semester.

When will classes begin?

UWG will begin Fall 2020 classes as scheduled on Wednesday, Aug. 12.

What happens if I begin exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19?

If you are a student and begin exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, please call the Student Health Center at 678-839-6452 to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment. Do not walk in to schedule an appointment. Additionally, do not attend classes. If you live on campus, Housing and Residence Life will identify a safe place where you can self-isolate.

What is the university’s guidance on the use of face coverings on campus?

Effective July 15, 2020, USG institutions, including UWG, will require all faculty, staff, students, and visitors to wear an appropriate face covering while inside campus facilities/buildings where six feet of social distancing may not always be possible. Face covering use will be in addition to, and is not a substitute for, social distancing.

Face coverings are not required in one’s own residence hall room or suite, when alone in an enclosed office or study room, or in campus outdoor settings where social distancing requirements are met.

Anyone not using a face covering when required will be asked to wear one or must leave the area. Repeated refusal to comply with the requirement may result in discipline through the applicable conduct code for faculty, staff, or students.

Reasonable accommodations may be made for those who are unable to wear a face covering for documented health reasons.

Could this plan change?

We are navigating an extremely fluid situation as we respond to the challenges presented by COVID-19. We will continue to follow the guidance of our governing and guiding organizations as the situation develops. We will remain responsive to the changing environment and the guidance we receive from these organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Office of the Governor of Georgia, the Georgia Department of Public Health, and the University System of Georgia.

More FAQs

What can I expect in my classes at UWG in Fall 2020?

  • No student will be prevented from taking a class in a way that works for them. The Division of Academic Affairs has evaluated all courses scheduled for Fall 2020 and has increased the number of hybrid courses, or courses in which technology is used to deliver 50 percent or less of class sessions.
  • Class sizes will be scheduled in accordance with normal instructional operation, but remote options will be offered in all courses in the event students cannot attend in person or need to isolate/quarantine during the semester.

What is the academic calendar for Fall 2020?

  • The Division of Academic Affairs has modified the Fall 2020 academic calendar in preparation for the upcoming semester, prioritizing the health and safety of the campus community to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
  • UWG will begin the semester on Wednesday, Aug. 12, as scheduled, and end regular instruction on Wednesday, Nov. 25. Final exams will be administered remotely so that students do not have to return to campus after Thanksgiving break.
  • The complete, modified academic calendar can be found on the Division of Academic Affairs website.

What guidance will students have for social distancing in classrooms?

Courses with fewer than 50 students will be scheduled in rooms in order to maximize social distancing while still providing instruction as close to a traditional format as possible. Large classes (those with more than 50 students) will have attendance split on different days such that students can attend one day a week in person and one remotely. Similar options will be available in many courses regardless of size.

How will campus be cleaned and sanitized? Classroom spaces? Living spaces?

  • The Custodial Services department in Facilities and Grounds will provide enhanced sanitation services during UWG’s Return to Campus. Custodial Services will perform enhanced cleaning of instructional spaces each evening.
  • Students are responsible for the cleaning and disinfecting of their individual room, to include in-room/suite bathrooms. Cleaning supplies for these locations will be supplied by the student, and it will be recommended they follow CDC recommendations for appropriate cleaning products.
  • The cleaning and disinfecting of common areas in living spaces will be carried out by Custodial Services and Housing and Residence Life employees based on a predetermined schedule outlined in the UWG’s Return to Work Plan.

Are classrooms going to be continually cleaned?

Custodial Services will perform enhanced cleaning of instructional spaces each evening. Throughout the day, staff will sanitize high-touch areas in common spaces such as restrooms, lobbies, corridors, elevators, stairs, etc. Details on cleaning classrooms between classes are being finalized.

When can I move on campus? What does move-in look like for keeping me safe?

To support social distancing, the dates when students will move into residence halls will vary and be based on a number of factors. Students will receive instructions for their move-in day including date, time, and location to their UWG email account by mid-July.

What if my roommate tests positive for COVID-19?

In partnership with the medical team in UWG Health Services – led by former emergency room director Dr. Eric Heine – Housing and Residence Life will work with students as we navigate what a positive COVID-19 status means for both roommates, and ensure everyone’s safety to the best of our ability.

How will my individual room in my residence hall be kept clean?

Residents are responsible for their own cleaning of their rooms. Students should inform their Resident Assistant if they need training or recommendations for cleaning supplies.

How do I social distance with a roommate?

Living in a residence hall is no different than you living at home with family members now. Your roommate and residence hall neighbors become your circle of friends that together ensure we are all staying safe and healthy.

What guidance is being provided to encourage social distancing in the residence halls?

We are educating and encouraging everyone to take personal responsibility to create a safe environment. If you feel uncomfortable with something in your residence hall, speak to your Residence Life Coordinator, and we’ll make whatever adjustments necessary to remind others how important it is to keep everyone in our community healthy. Our goal with these protocols is to build a culture of mutual respect.

If I’m in a high risk category or immunocompromised, can I get a single room?

Please contact Accessibility Services through their website or by calling 678-839-6428. Accessibility Services staff will work with Housing and Residence Life to accommodate all students with medical documentation of unique needs. All student health information will remain confidential.

What will our options for dining be like?

Like other restaurants in Georgia, dining services at East Commons and West Commons (Z-6) will be converted to full cafeteria-style dining with socially distanced seating in accordance with guidelines from state agencies including the Office of the Governor of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Public Health. Other facilities will continue to offer food-court style services and retail food services with social distancing and occupancy standards.

Is Pack Premiere still happening?

Yes, Pack Premiere will be UWG’s on-campus experience prior to classes beginning Aug. 12. Please check your UWG email for more information in July.

Freshman FAQ

Can I send my official high school transcripts before I graduate from high school?

Absolutely! We encourage applicants to submit their official preliminary high school transcripts. The sooner you send us your official transcripts and receive an admission decision, the more options you will have for classes, on-campus housing, and financial aid.

I sent my test scores more than two weeks ago, but my application status at Begin West still says they're missing. What should I do?

If we haven't received your test scores after two weeks, please contact either SAT or ACT to obtain a batch number for your scores. Please send your SAT or ACT batch number to admiss@westga.edu.

Should I still send in my test scores if they don't meet UWG's requirements?

Yes. We look at the best test and subtest scores, even across different test dates, and we superscore the ACT Composite, so we highly recommend you send us all of your test scores, even if they do not meet our requirements. We also recommend that you complete your application and submit all required documents, as you may be eligible for exclusive opportunities depending on your test scores and academic GPA.

Do I have to submit a new application when I send new test scores?

Students do not need to submit a new application when they send new test scores if the term on their original application is still active. As soon as we receive new test scores, we will automatically reevaluate the application for admission. However, if that term's deadline has passed, applicants must submit an update form at www.westga.edu/updatemyapp to have their application reevaluated.

Does UWG accept SAT Subject Tests?

Unfortunately, UWG does not accept SAT Subject Tests. Please register for the regular SAT instead so your scores can be used for admission to UWG.

Where should I send my AP Scores?

You can send your official AP Scores directly to our Registrar’s Office through mail or email. Official AP score reports may be requested by calling 1-888-308-0013 or by visiting www.collegeboard.org. The University of West Georgia’s school code is 5900.

Why are my SAT scores different than the SAT scores you have on file?

The College Board created the Redesigned SAT (RSAT) in March 2016 and changed the way they scored the test. Sometimes students see discrepancies in their test scores because of the differences between the old SAT and RSAT converted scores. We require 24 RSAT Reading and 450 RSAT Math for admission, which is equivalent to 430 SAT Critical Reading and 410 SAT Math. You can read more about our score requirements and the difference between the old SAT and Redesigned SAT scores here: https://www.westga.edu/admissions/freshman.php.

Why is the GPA on my high school transcripts different than the GPA calculated for my application?

Students may find discrepancies between the GPA on their transcripts and their academic GPA. When calculating your freshman index, we use your academic GPA, which only includes 4 English, 4 math, 4 natural science, 3 social science, and 2 foreign language courses. Unfortunately, the academic GPA does not include electives.

Can I take a placement test to gain admission to UWG?

Unfortunately, freshmen cannot use Accuplacer scores to gain admission to UWG, unless the Office of Undergraduate Admissions has specifically invited them to do so. The Accuplacer exam is only offered to applicants who graduated from high school 5+ years ago.

What should I do if I am missing one of the classes for the required high school curriculum?

If you have not graduated yet, you should speak with your high school counselor about online credit recovery options. If you have already graduated, you can participate in our West In Thirty program, or you can apply to UWG as a full transfer student after successfully completing 30 transferrable credit hours at another college. If you currently attend or have graduated from a high school outside of Georgia, you may have different requirements. Please reach out to your admissions representative if you have concerns about completing the required high school curriculum so we can personally assist you.

I earned a GED last year instead of a high school diploma. Can I still attend UWG?

UWG cannot accept GED scores for admission purposes until a student has been out of high school for at least five years. Please reach out to your admissions representative about participating in our West in Thirty program instead.

I sent my application fee waiver to Undergraduate Admissions, but my application through westga.edu/beginwest hasn't been submitted. What should I do?

It is possible that you had not answered all required questions on your application when we received your waiver. Please login to your account at westga.edu/beginwest and make sure all required questions have been answered. If you believe you have answered all questions, please email admiss@westga.edu so we can assist you.

I sent my application fee waiver to Undergraduate Admissions, but my application through GA Futures hasn't been submitted. What should I do?

Unfortunately, UWG cannot apply fee waivers to GA Futures applications. If you have a fee waiver, please complete our application through westga.edu/beginwest instead.

Can UWG send me a fee waiver for my application?

Unfortunately, UWG does not distribute fee waivers. Please contact your high school counselor if you qualify for an application fee waiver. You can also visit the websites for NACAC, SAT, and ACT to see eligibility requirements and instructions on how to obtain their fee waivers.

FAQ

Do I need to send transcripts from all colleges I have attended or just the last college I attended?

We need official transcripts from all colleges attended to make an admission decision, even if you believe your classes will not transfer.

Why do I need to send transcripts from all colleges attended if my classes from a previous institution are listed on my current transcripts?

Transcripts from one institution will only show the transferrable courses from previous institutions. They will not list non-transferrable courses or courses that earned a grade of F, WF, or I. Therefore, we need transcripts from all colleges attended to evaluate your application accurately. We also require official transcripts from all colleges attended to ensure you do not owe a balance to any institution.

Can I send my official college transcripts if I am currently enrolled in classes?

Absolutely! We encourage applicants to submit their official preliminary college transcripts. The sooner you send us your official transcripts and receive an admission decision, the more options you will have for classes, on-campus housing, and financial aid.

I cannot obtain official college transcripts because I am currently enrolled in my first semester at a particular institution. What should I do?

If you are currently enrolled in your first semester at an institution, please let our office know as soon as possible at admiss@westga.edu so we can adjust the required documents for your admissions application.

I cannot obtain official college transcripts because I have a hold on my account or an outstanding balance. What should I do?

Unfortunately, we need transcripts from all colleges attended to make an admission decision. Please contact your previous institutions and take action to remove any holds from your account or pay outstanding balances.

I'm trying to send electronic transcripts, and it's asking for an email address. Which email address should I provide?

Please have your electronic transcripts sent to admiss@westga.edu

 

How is my transfer GPA calculated for admission?

Your transfer GPA is calculated using all attempted transferable coursework only. Courses that are not transferable are not included. I (Incomplete) grades are calculated as an F (Failing). W (Withdrawn) grades are not counted towards attempted coursework. WF (Withdrawn Failing) are calculated as an F (Failing). The transfer GPA is calculated by dividing the number of quality points by the number semester credit of hours.

UWG determined that my transfer GPA is below a 2.0. What should I do?

Transfer applicants whose GPA is less than a 2.0 should remain enrolled at another institution and increase their GPA by taking more transferable courses. Alternatively, transfer applicants may gain admission, regardless of GPA, by earning an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree.

Why have I been asked to take the Accuplacer exam even though I've already taken a college-level English or math class?

It's possible that your college-level English or math class was not transferable, or you did not earn the minimum grade requirement to show proficiency in that subject. You can find a list of transferrable courses at www.westga.edu/transfer. If you believe you have been asked to take the Accuplacer exam by mistake, please contact our office at admiss@westga.edu.

How do I fulfill the English proficiency requirement?

Applicants can demonstrate proficiency in English by earning a grade of C or higher in a college-level English course or by submitting qualifying SAT or ACT scores that have been taken within seven years. Additionally, non-traditional transfer applicants can demonstrate proficiency in English by earning a 61 or higher on the Accuplacer Reading Comprehension exam and a 4 or higher on the Accuplacer WritePlacer exam. Accuplacer exams must have been taken within the last year.

How do I fulfill the math proficiency requirement?

Applicants can demonstrate proficiency in math by earning a grade of D or higher in a college-level math course or by submitting qualifying SAT or ACT scores that have been taken within seven years. Additionally, non-traditional transfer applicants can demonstrate proficiency in math by earning a a 67 or higher on the Accuplacer Elementary Algebra exam. Accuplacer exams must have been taken within the last year.

What is transfer conditional acceptance?

Conditional acceptance is offered to transfer applicants who are in-progress towards 30 semester transferrable credit hours and/or college-level English and math courses. The Transfer Conditional Acceptance Contract must be signed and returned to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions in order to attend orientation, register for classes, and reserve on-campus housing. Conditional acceptance may be revoked if in-progress courses are not successfully completed.

What should I do if I am on academic suspension/dismissal at my current institution?

If you meet all other admission requirements, you may be admitted if you provide evidence that you have cleared your suspension/dismissal at your current institution, maintain a gap in enrollment in higher education for the past five years, or attain an associate's degree since being placed on academic suspension/dismissal.

Which classes will transfer?

While the Registrar's Office provides official transfer evaluations to students after they are accepted, you can visit www.westga.edu/transfer to see which courses are transferrable.

When will I receive my official transfer credit evaluation?

The Registrar's Office usually processes transfer evaluations within 2-3 weeks after the student has been fully accepted to UWG. Students will be notified via email when their transfer evaluation has been completed.

Can I apply as a regular freshman, even if I have attended a college before after your high school graduation?

Unfortunately, no. If you have attempted any college coursework, regardless of the number of credit hours earned, you will be classified as a transfer student and must send us official transcripts from all colleges attended.

Can I submit an application fee waiver if I am a transfer student?

UWG accepts fee waivers provided by NACAC. Find out more info on their website.

FAQ

A transient student is a “visiting” student who wishes to take course work at UWG for one semester and then return to his/her previously enrolled college.

How many semesters can I be a transient student?

Enrollment as a transient student is limited to one consecutive semester. 

Can I continue at UWG after my transient semester?

A transient student wishing to continue enrollment at UWG as a degree seeking transfer student must reapply as a transfer degree seeking student and fulfill all transfer admission requirements. Application as a transfer student and all required transfer admission documents must be received by the announced application and document deadline date.

How do I pay for classes?

Since transient students are “visiting” student and not degree seeking UWG students, transient students are not eligible for any financial assistance from UWG. Transient students must make financial assistance arrangements with their “home” college.

Do I have to attend orientation?

Transient students do not attend new student orientation.

An Auditor is a student who enrolls as an observer or listener only. 

Can I get Financial Aid?

Since auditors are "visiting" students and not degree seeking UWG students, auditors are not eligible for financial assistance from UWG. 

When do I register for classes?

Auditors are eligible to register three days prior to the start of the semester. Visit here for the registration date of the upcoming term.

Can I attend UWG for multiple semesters?

Auditors are eligible to attend in consecutive terms; however, they must reapply and submit an additional $40 application fee (If mailing a paper application, please do not mail cash payment.) if they do not stay continuously enrolled (the requirement to apply and pay the application fee each term is waived for students who stay continuously enrolled).

Do I have to attend Orientation?

Auditors do not attend new student orientation.

A Post-Baccalaureate Non-Degree Seeking student attends classes but is not seeking a UWG degree

Can I get Financial Aid?

Post-Baccalaureate Non-Degree Seeking students are not eligible for financial assistance from UWG.

When do I register for classes?

Post-Baccalaureate Non-Degree Seeking students are eligible to register three days prior to the start of the semester. Visit here for the registration date of the upcoming term.

Can I attend UWG for multiple semesters?

Post-Baccalaureate Non-Degree Seeking students are eligible to attend in consecutive terms; however, they must reapply and submit an additional $40 application fee (If mailing a paper application, please do not mail cash payment.) if they do not stay continuously enrolled (the requirement to apply and pay the application fee each term is waived for students who stay continuously enrolled). 

Do I have to attend Orientation?

Post-Baccalaureate Non-Degree Seeking students do not attend new student orientation.

 

Dual Enrollment

Who is eligible to participate in the Dual Enrollment Program?

High school students in grades 10th-12th grades attending a public or private high school in Georgia or home study can participate in the Dual Enrollment Program.

What terms is Dual Enrollment available?

Students may participate in Dual Enrollment for all terms (Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters).

How do I apply for Dual Enrollment funding?

Complete the Georgia Futures Dual Enrollment Funding Applicaiton at gafutures.org.

Does the funding application have to be submitted each semester that you enroll in classes?

No, the funding application only needs to be completed once per school year. The funding application must be completed before we can register you for classes.

What expenses are not covered by the Dual Enrollment program?

Students may incur expenses for course related fees and supplies required for a particular course or optional fee charged by the postsecondary institution. If the postsecondary institution provided the textbooks through a lending program, the student may be charged a lost or damaged book fee if the book is not returned in the required condition.

The student is responsible for tuition and fees for any course taken that is not on the Dual Enrollment Approved Course Directory and the student’s Dual Enrollment funding application.

How do I register for courses at UWG?

After you have been accepted, please contact the Dual Enrollment team at dualenroll@westga.edu to get advised.

Can I live on campus as a Dual Enrollment student?

No, we do not allow high school students to live on campus.