First-Year Admission

The undergraduate admissions committee reviews each application in a holistic and individualized manner, with a goal of getting to know each student through the application process. Some of the things assessed during this process include the following:

• Academic potential and preparation
• Personal characteristics and qualities
• Accomplishments and involvement

Admission to Washington University is both selective and competitive. The university receives applications from far more students than it is able to admit each year. Students who come to Washington University have challenged themselves academically and personally during their high school years and are required to have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent, including home-schooled students and students holding a GED. Most applicants take advantage of honors, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate, and/or Dual Enrollment courses, if offered by their high schools. The admissions review takes each applicant's individual context, circumstances, and opportunities into account.

Most candidates' transcripts include the following:

• Four years of English
• Four years of mathematics; calculus is strongly recommended for majors in Architecture, Business, and Engineering; science majors in Arts & Sciences; and those who intend to pursue a pre-medicine path
• Three to four years of history or social science
• At least two years of the same foreign language since ninth grade
• Three to four years of laboratory science; chemistry and physics are strongly recommended for Engineering majors and for those who plan to do course work in the sciences and/or pre-medicine

Important components of a student's application also include the following:

• The student's academic performance (transcript), including course selection, grades, and class rank, if provided by the secondary school
• Counselor and teacher recommendations
• Essays
• Extracurricular and community involvement, including positive impacts on home and community (students who work for pay and/or have time-consuming family responsibilities should include this in their activity list)
• Standardized testing, if provided (see below)

Standardized Testing

WashU has a test-optional policy for applicants for admission in the fall semester of 2025. Applicants have the option of whether to submit standardized test scores. Students who are unable to or who elect not to submit their test scores will have the requirement automatically waived and will not be penalized. For those who do submit test scores, either SAT or ACT scores are acceptable, and neither the writing section nor SAT Subject Tests are required. Test results from any of the student's high school years are acceptable and we consider only the highest individual scores, whenever they occurred. Students may also submit additional testing (such as SAT Subject Tests, AP or IB exam scores, or other forms of testing) in addition to, or in lieu of, the SAT or ACT.

Applying for Admission

For a student's application file to be complete, we must receive the following materials by the deadline for the decision plan selected:

• Common Application or Coalition Application
• Nonrefundable $75 fee or a simple fee-waiver request
• All required additional materials as outlined in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions guidelines, including a teacher recommendation, a school report, and official transcripts

Washington University also accepts applications through the QuestBridge Match process.

Decision Plans

Washington University offers two binding Early Decision options (Early Decision I, with a deadline of November 1 and notification by December 15, and Early Decision II, with a deadline of January 2 and notification by February 14) and Regular Decision, with a deadline of January 2 and notification by April 1 each year.

If Washington University is a student's first choice, we encourage the student to consider applying under an Early Decision plan. Applying Early Decision signifies a binding commitment that the student will attend Washington University if admitted. This option requires the applicant to submit a nonrefundable enrollment deposit within two weeks of receiving notification of admission. If admitted, the student must withdraw applications at other schools. A student may apply to only one school through a binding Early Decision plan.

Selecting a Division

We encourage students to think about where their interests may lie at the time they apply in terms of a major and a degree path to pursue. Applicants must select one of the academic divisions (Architecture, Art, Arts & Sciences, Business, or Engineering) or the Beyond Boundaries program as the primary point of interest. This allows us to assess proper preparation in the application review process and to provide effective academic advising from the start to help students realize their goals. Once admitted to a division, a student must spend at least one full semester in that division before requesting a change to another undergraduate division at Washington University. Students wishing to switch undergraduate divisions after the first semester do so by meeting with their dean's office. (Note: Olin Business School considers transfer requests after the first year.)

If English Is Not the Student's Primary Language

International applicants for whom English is a second language are required to demonstrate evidence of English language proficiency by submitting results from the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), or Duolingo English Test. Applicants may also seek a waiver, based upon specific circumstances. Students should refer to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions for additional guidance.

Portfolios

In addition to the application materials referenced above, applicants to the College of Art are required to submit a portfolio of their work and applicants to the College of Architecture are encouraged to do so. All College of Art students will be considered for the Conway or Proetz Scholarship in art; Architecture students who submit portfolios will be considered for the Fitzgibbon Scholarship.

Applicants should submit their portfolios through SlideRoom and should include 12 to 15 pieces of recent work, which may include drawings, two- and three-dimensional pieces, and photographs. (If an applicant is submitting an architecture portfolio, they should not include CAD drawings or examples of their drafting skills.) The applicant may include additional information about each piece, such as the title, medium, dimensions and date completed.

Deferred Enrollment

Admitted students who have submitted their enrollment materials but wish to begin their studies at a later date may request to defer enrollment at Washington University for a period of one year, with extension possible for an additional year depending on individual circumstances. Requests to defer enrollment (“take a gap year”) are reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and must be received by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions by May 15.

Deferred enrollment is designed for students who wish to engage in a substantive personal growth experience before enrolling or students completing compulsory national service and/or a religious commitment. Students who have deferred enrollment should not enroll as a full-time student at another institution. If a student pursues any course work during deferred enrollment, any courses taken during the deferred period are typically not accepted for credit. Final decisions about the transferability of any credit lies with the dean's office in each division.

Students interested in deferring enrollment should contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions for important deadlines and procedures. Note: students deferring enrollment must reapply for financial assistance during the application cycle immediately preceding the date of desired entry.

Please visit the Admissions website for more information.

Statement of Admissions Conduct

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the highest ethical and professional standards of conduct as an integral part of its mission, the promotion of learning. To achieve this goal, the university relies on each community member’s ethical behavior, honesty, integrity and good judgment. Each community member should demonstrate respect for the rights of others. Each community member is accountable for his/her actions. Therefore, an offer of admission and a student’s enrollment at the university are contingent upon the accurate and complete representation of information within the application for admission, as well as successful completion of their current studies. Applicants are obligated to notify the university of any changes in the information provided or responses submitted as part of their application. Washington University in St. Louis reserves the right to rescind an offer of admission or revoke a student’s enrollment at any time if we receive information that, in our sole judgment and discretion, indicates that the information provided in the application is inaccurate or misleading or if new information leads the university to determine that a student is no longer a positive presence for study or participation in our community.

Transfer Admission

Transfer admission to Washington University is selective; the university receives more applications each year than it has space to admit. Architecture, Art, Business, and Engineering only accept applications for transfer admission for entry in the fall semester; Arts & Sciences accepts applications for both the fall and spring semesters.

An applicant should apply as a transfer student if they meet all of the following requirements:

1. The applicant has finished secondary school and completed some college study.
2. The applicant would like to be considered for admission with advanced standing (as a second-year or third-year student) at Washington University.
3. The applicant is interested in enrolling full-time in an undergraduate degree program with a specific academic focus.
4. The applicant has never attended any of Washington University's full-time, degree-granting schools.

For information about transfer application deadlines, please visit the Admissions website.

Preparation for Transfer

Transfer applicants are reviewed for their preparation to successfully enroll in their division of interest. Available space in each division varies every year. Generally speaking, strong applicants will have achieved at least a B+ average from a two- or four-year college in courses across a broad academic curriculum.

Some academic divisions require specific academic achievement and the completion of specific course work. For example, students with interests in business must demonstrate strong performance in math course work, including calculus, and students interested in engineering or the physical or biological sciences must demonstrate strong performance in science and mathematics course work, including calculus. Applicants are advised to review the suggested guidelines and specific course work needed for their intended area of study or intended professional pathway (e.g., pre-med); this is available on the Admissions website.

Additionally, transfer applicants must have left their current institution and all previous institutions in good standing and be eligible to return. If an applicant has been away from a formal academic setting for more than two years, we require the applicant to complete at least one year (30 units) of work at another college or university before applying for transfer admission.

Due to the very limited number of transfer spaces available, transfer applicants are ineligible to request deferred enrollment from one year to the next.

For additional admissions information on how to apply as a transfer applicant, please visit the Admissions website.

To apply as a transfer applicant, applicants must submit their high school transcript(s), their application, official transcripts of all previous college work, a Transfer Academic Evaluation (letter of recommendation), a Transfer Registrar Report (College Report), and the nonrefundable $75 application fee (or fee waiver) to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Transfer applicants have the option of whether to submit standardized testing, such as the SAT or ACT.

Detailed information about applying for financial aid is available on the Student Financial Services website and in this Bulletin.

Transfer admission information for individual schools is listed as follows.

Transferring into Arts & Sciences

Each year, a number of students from other colleges and universities transfer into the College of Arts & Sciences. Upon their admission, the transfer student advisor reviews and evaluates their previous academic work. Full credit is normally granted for courses taken at accredited institutions, provided that the university offers comparable courses and that the student has completed the courses with a grade of C or better. Please note: With the exception of course work taken during the 2020-21 academic year, online course work will not be considered for transfer credit. In addition, transfer credit may be counted where applicable and upon department approval toward major or minor requirements. Transfer students must be enrolled for at least four consecutive full-time semesters, excluding summer terms, to satisfy the residency requirement. They must complete a minimum number of units at Washington University and a minimum number of units in the College of Arts & Sciences in accordance with the table found under the heading "Transfer Students" on the Arts & Sciences Degree Requirements page of this Bulletin.

All transfer students are assigned an academic advisor. When they declare a major, they also meet with an advisor in the major department. The full range of curricular opportunities offered through the college is open to transfer students when prerequisites are satisfied. An applicant should direct specific questions about transfer credit and course sequences at Washington University to the College of Arts & Sciences.

Transferring into Architecture

Places for transfer students are extremely limited and require strong performance in an arts and sciences curriculum, preferably with preparation in the visual arts. Placement into the design studio sequence is determined by a portfolio review and an evaluation of prior course work. To assist with appropriate placement, an interview with the associate dean of students, while not required, is strongly recommended. The applicant should bring a transcript to the meeting. The applicant's previous work should parallel as closely as possible the course work outlined on the Architecture Degree Requirements page.

Transfer applicants to the College of Architecture are required to submit a portfolio consisting of 12 to 15 pieces of recent work for review by the faculty through SlideRoom on the Common Application. This should include examples of work that indicate the applicant’s technical and conceptual level of accomplishment. Some drawing should be from direct observation. If possible, applicants should submit examples of work in different media to demonstrate a range of art and design experiences.

Transferring into Art

The number of studio art credits that a transfer applicant has already earned, in combination with an evaluation of the applicant's portfolio, determines the level at which the student is admitted. As much as possible, the studio art courses taken at other institutions should correspond with the program at Washington University as outlined on the Art Degree Requirements page. To assist with appropriate placement, an interview with the associate dean of students, while not required, is strongly recommended. The applicant should bring a transcript to the meeting.

Transfer applicants to the College of Art are required to submit a portfolio through SlideRoom on the Common Application for faculty review. The portfolio should consist of 12 to 15 pieces of recent work and show a variety of art experiences, including drawings, work utilizing design principles, and some work in color. Applicants should include examples of work from basic drawing and design classes that indicate their technical and conceptual level of accomplishment, and some drawing should be from direct observation. If possible, applicants should submit examples of work in different media to demonstrate a range of art and design experiences. If applying to the second- or third-year level, some of the work should be in the area of the applicant's intended major.

Transferring into Business

The Olin Business School offers transfer enrollment during the fall semester. The strongest candidates for admission are able to demonstrate solid academic performance at a two- or four-year college that mirrors most of the academic requirements that our students complete during their first or second year of study. For a sophomore-level transfer candidate, this would include Calculus II at the college level. Microeconomics is recommended. For a junior-level transfer candidate, this would include financial accounting, microeconomics, and perhaps macroeconomics and managerial accounting. All transfers to the Olin Business School must have completed an equivalent to Calculus II at the college level. Students who are admitted to the Olin Business School should expect a written course evaluation from the transfer student advisor within two weeks of receiving their offer of admission; this letter will indicate the courses that will be accepted by the business school. A maximum of 60 credits will be accepted toward our undergraduate degree. Students must earn at least a C grade in the course for the units to transfer to Washington University. Typically, courses taken online are not accepted as transfer credit. However, online courses taken during the COVID-19 pandemic (Spring 2020 through Summer 2022) will be transferable. Grades will not transfer to Washington University.

All transfer students are assigned an academic advisor. Transfer students must be enrolled for at least four consecutive full-time semesters to satisfy the residency requirement.

Please refer to the Degree Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree.

Transferring into Engineering

Applicants may apply for admission if they have completed a minimum of one year of college work elsewhere; however, the McKelvey School of Engineering does not accept transfer students who have already completed a bachelor's degree. The transfer applicant must demonstrate academic achievement (i.e., a grade average of B+ or better), with strength in mathematics (calculus) and science (chemistry/physics). Transfer applicants to the McKelvey School of Engineering should have completed one semester of an English composition course, two semesters of calculus-based physics, and sufficient calculus (typically three semesters) to be prepared for differential equations. Applicants interested in biomedical engineering should also have completed at least one semester of chemistry with lab and an introductory biology sequence that includes cellular, molecular and developmental biology as well as genetics. Applicants interested in chemical or environmental engineering should have completed at least one biology course and sufficient chemistry to be ready to take organic chemistry. After completing the application process, an evaluation of the applicant's record will be made to determine the transfer of college credit. Grades earned do not transfer, but the applicant must earn a letter grade of C- or better for the course credit to transfer. Courses taken on a pass/fail basis do not transfer.

To be recommended for any bachelor's degree, a transfer applicant must satisfy applicable requirements of the McKelvey School of Engineering as shown in the Degree Requirements section of this Bulletin. Please note that all students earning an undergraduate engineering degree are required to complete a minimum of 60 course units at Washington University.

Pre-Matriculation Credit Units

Pre-matriculation credit units are earned before an applicant's enrollment at Washington University as a first-year student and can be applied toward a Washington University degree. A maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit may be counted toward an undergraduate degree; these units of credit will count toward graduation but will not count toward the distribution requirements/meet general education requirements.* Sources for pre-matriculation credit units include Advanced Placement (AP) examinations, International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, British Advanced (A) Levels, course credit earned by proficiency (e.g., Back Credit), and college credit earned after the student's sophomore year in high school. Credits earned via Arts & Sciences Pre-College Programs are considered to be pre-matriculation credit units and are subject to the same regulations. A transcript notation is made of all pre-matriculation credit units earned before enrollment in Washington University.

*

• A student in the College of Arts & Sciences may apply a maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit toward any undergraduate degree; these units of credit will count toward graduation but will not count toward the distribution requirements. A transcript notation is made of all pre-matriculation credit units earned before enrollment in Washington University.
• A student in the Olin Business School may apply a maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit toward the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration undergraduate degree; these units of credit will count toward graduation but will not count toward the distribution requirements. A transcript notation is made of all pre-matriculation credit units earned before enrollment in Washington University.
• A student in the McKelvey School of Engineering may apply a maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit toward any undergraduate degree. A transcript notation is made of all pre-matriculation credit units earned before enrollment in Washington University.
• A student in the College of Art may apply a maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit toward an undergraduate degree; these units of credit will count toward graduation but will not count toward the distribution requirements. A transcript notation is made of all pre-matriculation credit units earned before enrollment in Washington University.
• A student in the College of Architecture may apply a maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit toward an undergraduate degree; these units of credit will count toward graduation but will not count toward the distribution requirements. A transcript notation is made of all pre-matriculation credit units earned before enrollment in Washington University.

Students who wish to receive pre-matriculation credit from their College Board AP examinations, International Baccalaureate courses, and British A-Level examinations should submit their official score reports to Washington University. All appropriate test scores will have course equivalents assigned to them and will be noted on the transcript. However, a maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit will be awarded, provided credit has not been already designated as the result of college course work having been transferred as well. If a student takes a course in residence for which they have already received AP/IB/A-Level credit, the AP/IB/A-Level credit will be removed automatically.

College Courses Prior to Washington University

A maximum of 15 units of pre-matriculation credit may be awarded for college courses completed at another college or university prior to matriculation, provided no other pre-matriculation credits have been awarded. In the College of Arts & Sciences, Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts, Olin Business School, and McKelvey School of Engineering, college courses completed at another college or university prior to matriculation must meet the following standards:

1. Taken after the sophomore year in high school
2. Taken at a fully accredited college or university
3. Taught on a college or university campus
4. Taught by a college or university faculty member
5. Enrolled in primarily by matriculated college students (i.e., high school graduates)
6. Not listed on the high school transcript, did not count toward the high school diploma/graduation requirements, and was not part of a high school/college dual credit program

Students in the College of Arts & Sciences who would like to apply to receive pre-matriculation credit for college courses completed at another college or university prior to matriculation should visit the College of Arts & Sciences website.

Students in the Olin Business School who would like to apply to receive pre-matriculation credit for college courses completed at another college or university prior to matriculation should contact the Olin Business School.

Students in the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts who would like to apply to receive pre-matriculation credit for college courses completed at another college or university prior to matriculation should visit the Sam Fox School website or contact the Sam Fox School registrar.

Students in the McKelvey School of Engineering who would like to apply to receive pre-matriculation credit for college courses completed at another college or university prior to matriculation should contact the McKelvey School of Engineering or email their questions about the transfer course equivalency review process to EUSS@wustl.edu.

Secondary School Course Work

Washington University does not recognize credit for courses taken in secondary schools (high schools) and taught by secondary (high school) instructors, even when offered under the aegis of a university. The university accepts credit for courses taken at a college or university and taught by faculty of a college or university, provided the course has not been credited toward the high school diploma.

Proficiency and Placement Examinations

Superior results on proficiency and placement examinations allow students to enter advanced courses at the beginning of their college career, to fulfill some requirements for a major or a minor by examination rather than by course work, and to earn credit toward their degree. Students will have all accepted pre-matriculation credit noted on their transcript so they may go directly into advanced courses.

Four types of examinations are recognized:

1. Washington University Placement Examinations. Placement examinations are administered by various departments and have different requirements for advanced course placement.
2. International Baccalaureate. Students who have earned the International Baccalaureate diploma or who have successfully passed examinations in the program should consult a dean in their undergraduate division of the university about advanced course placement and credit. These scores may be used for placement or granting of degree credit, according to the recommendations of the various departments. Subsidiary-level scores are not recognized.
3. Advanced (A) Levels (A-Levels). These grades may be used for placement or granting of degree credit, according to the recommendations of the various departments.
4. Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations. These are used for placement, partial fulfillment of major or minor requirements, and the granting of degree credit, according to the recommendations of the various departments. Examinations are given by the College Board in May of each year for secondary school (high school) students who have been enrolled in college-level courses in the same subject or subjects of the exam. For the most current policy information, visit the College of Arts & Sciences Advanced Placement webpage. Students who wish to receive pre-matriculation credit for their AP test scores must have their AP test scores sent to Washington University by contacting the College Board at www.collegeboard.org or 1-888-225-5427 (College Code 6929).

SAT Subject Tests: These examinations in modern languages are administered by the College Board. They are required for study in certain languages.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP): These scores are not accepted for credit or placement.

Back Credit Policy

East Asian Languages

Credit is typically awarded for completing the following courses with a grade of B- or better. Native speakers are not eligible for back credit, so evidence of secondary or post-secondary study of the language is required.

Chinese

Chinese 211 = 3 units for Chinese 102D
Chinese 360 = 3 units for Chinese 102D and 3 units for Chinese 212

Japanese

Japan 213 = 3 units for Japan 104D
Japan 412 = 3 units for Japan 104D and 3 units for Japan 214

Korean

Korean 217 = 3 units for Korean 118D
Korean 417 = 3 units for Korean 118D and 3 units for Korean 218

French (L34)

Credit is awarded for the following courses with a grade of B or better. Native speakers are not eligible for back credit; evidence of secondary or postsecondary study of the language is required. No back credit is awarded for 102 or 301.  

French 203D = 3 units for French 102D
French 204D = 3 units for French 203D and 3 units for French 102D
French 307D = 3 units for French 204D and 3 units for French 203D
French 308D = 3 units for French 307D and 3 units for French 204D (credit awarded for placement, completion of the course is not required)

Germanic Languages and Literatures (L21)

Students receive the following back credit after successfully completing these courses with a grade of B- or better.

German 201D = 3 units for German 102D
German 202D = 3 units for German 102D and 3 units for German 201D
German 301D = 3 units for German 102D and 3 units for German 201D
German 302D = 3 units for German 102D and 3 units for German 201D

For students who started German at WashU prior to fall 2021:

German 210D = 3 units for German 102D
German 301D = 3 units for German 102D and 3 units for German 210D
German 302D = 3 units for German 102D and 3 units for German 210D

Greek (L09)

Students may be awarded 3 units of credit for Greek 101D upon completion of Greek 210. Students may be awarded 3 units of credit for Greek 101D and 3 units of credit for Greek 102D upon completion of Greek 317C or Greek 318C with a grade of B or better. Placement at the appropriate level is determined by departmental examination.

Italian (L36)

Credit is awarded for the following courses with a grade of B or better. Native speakers are not eligible for back credit, so evidence of secondary or postsecondary study of the language is required. No back credit is awarded for Ital 102 or Ital 301.

Ital 201D = 3 units for Ital 102D
Ital 307D = 3 units for Ital 201D and 3 units for Ital 102D
Ital 308D = 3 units for Ital 307D and 3 units for Ital 201D (credit awarded for placement; completion of the course is not required)

Jewish, Islamic, and Middle Eastern Languages

Credit is typically awarded for completing the following courses with a grade of B- or better. Native speakers are not eligible for back credit, so evidence of secondary or postsecondary study of the language is required.

Arabic

Arab 207D or Arab 208D = 3 units for Arab 108D
Arab 307D or Arab 308D = 3 units for Arab 207D and 3 units for Arab 208D
Arab 3075 or Arab 3085 = 3 units for Arab 207D and 3 units for Arab 208D
Arab 407 or Arab 408 = 3 units for Arab 3075 and 3 units for Arab 3085

Hebrew

HBRW 2011 or HBRW 2012 = 3 units for HBRW 1012
HBRW 320D or HBRW 322 = 3 units for HBRW 1011 and 3 units for HBRW 2012
HBRW 384 or HBRW 385D = 3 units for HBRW 1011 and 3 units for HBRW 2012
HBRW 4011 or HBRW 401W or HBRW 402 = 3 units for HBRW 320D and 3 units for HBRW 322D

Hindi

Hindi 201 or Hindi 202 = 3 units for Hindi 112D
Hindi 301 or Hindi 302 = 3 units for Hindi 201 and 3 units for Hindi 202

Urdu

Hindi 232 or Hindi 232A = 3 units for Hindi 151
Hindi 250 or Hindi 251 = 3 units for Hindi 151
Hindi 305 or Hindi 306 = 3 units for Hindi 250 and 3 units for Hindi 251

Latin (L10)

Students may be awarded 3 units of credit for Latin 101D and 3 units of credit for Latin 102D upon completion of Latin 301, Latin 3161, Latin 3171 or Latin 3181 with a grade of B or better. Placement in the appropriate course is determined by examination.

Mathematics (L24)

Russian (L39)

Students can receive back credit for up to 6 credits contingent upon successful completion (B or better) of the next level. Native speakers are not eligible for back credit, so evidence of secondary or postsecondary study of the language is required.

Biology (L41)

• Grade 7, 6: 6 units of credit for Biol 100A (elective credit). Students who plan to major in Biology or who are pre-med normally will enroll in Biol 2960 during the spring of their first year and Biol 2970 during the fall of sophomore year. 
• Grade 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded.

Business/Organization

• No credit awarded.

Chemistry (L07)

Those students who receive a 6 or 7 on the IB test in Chemistry will receive 3 units each of Chem 103 and Chem 104. Receipt of these credits has no bearing on the fulfillment of chemistry requirements for pre-medicine or any science major and cannot be used to satisfy prerequisites for Organic Chemistry. All students who receive a score of 6 or 7 should enroll in Chem 111A rather than Chem 105. All students who wish to pursue a major or a pre-professional preparatory curriculum requiring general chemistry must take Chem 111A and Chem 112A and the associated labs, Chem 151 and Chem 152. Please note that, in certain instances, students may substitute Chem 105/Chem 106 for Chem 111A/Chem 112A. Please consult the Department of Chemistry’s Director of Undergraduate Studies for details. Students who wish to pursue another major or a pre-professional preparatory curriculum requiring general chemistry must take either Chem 105 and Chem 106 or Chem 111A and Chem 112A (specific requirements are defined by the major program) and the associated labs, Chem 151 and Chem 152. Students who wish to exempt either the first or second semester of general chemistry, including the labs, must pass a placement exam administered by the Department of Chemistry during the first week of classes in the fall.

• Grade 7, 6: 6 units of credit: 3 units each of Chem 103 and Chem 104. These units do not replace Chem 111A or Chem 112A. Chem 112A must be completed prior to registration in Chem 261 or Chem 401 or any advanced courses in Chemistry.
• Grade 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded. 

Classical Greek (L09)

• No credit awarded.

Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Computer Science (E81)

• No credit awarded.

However, a student can take the CSE 131 placement exam. Contact the CSE office at 314-935-6160 for more information.

Economics (L11)

• Grade 7: 3 units of undergraduate general degree credit, contingent upon completion of Econ 4011 with a grade of B or better. The credit will not count toward the economics major/minor. Placement into any economics course is permitted (assuming other prerequisites are met); however, bypassing introductory courses may be disadvantageous, and students are strongly encouraged to consult with the department's academic coordinator. Bypassing Econ 1011 and/or Econ 1021 requires the completion of additional economics elective credit for the major/minors in Economics and for the major in Economics + Computer Science.
• Grade 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given. Not recommended to bypass Econ 1011 or Econ 1021.

English Literature (L14) and Writing (L13)

• Grade 7: 3 units of elective credit (L13 0001) contingent upon completing L59 111-120, L59 100 or L13 103 with a grade of B or better. Please note that no credit is given for writing or literature courses.
• Grade 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

French (L34)

• No credit awarded.

Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Geography

• No credit awarded.

German A1, German B (Modern Foreign Languages) (L21)

• No credit awarded.

Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Greek (L09)

• No credit awarded.

Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

History (L22)

African History: No credit awarded.

Islamic World History: No credit awarded. 

South and Southeast Asia History: No credit awarded.

South Asia and Middle East History: No credit awarded.

Italian (L36)

• No credit awarded.

Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Latin (L10)

• No credit awarded.

Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Mathematics (L24)

Analysis and Approaches (AA) HL:

• Grade 7, 6: 3 units of credit for Math 132.
• Grade 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded.

Analysis and Approaches (AA) SL:

• Grade 7, 6: 3 units of credit for Math 131.
• Grade 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded.

Applications and Interpretations (AI) HL:

• Grade 7, 6: 3 units of credit for Math 131. 
• Grade 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded.

Applications and Interpretations (AI) SL: No credit awarded.

Mathematics HL:

• Grade 7, 6: 3 units of credit for Math 131.
• Grade 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded.

Mathematics SL and EE: No credit awarded.

Mathematics Studies EE and SL: No credit awarded.

Further Mathematics HL, EE, and SL: No credit awarded.

Music (L27)

• Grade 7, 6: 3 units of elective credit for students who do not major or minor in music.
• Grade 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded.

Norwegian

• No credit awarded. 

Philosophy (L30)

• Grade 7, 6: 3 units of credit for Phil 125C.
• Grade 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded.

Physics (L31)

Physics HL:

• Grade 7: 6 units of credit for Physics 113A and 114A.
• Grade 6, 5: 3 units of credit for Physics 113A.
• Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit awarded.

Physics EE: No credit awarded.

Psychological & Brain Sciences (L33)

• Grade 7, 6: Waives the Psych 100B Introduction to Psychology requirement, but no college credit is awarded.

Social Anthropology (L48)

Credit is evaluated on an individual basis by the anthropology department.

Spanish (L38)

• No credit awarded.

Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Visual/Studio Arts (F20)

• Grade 7: 3 units of elective credit.
• Grade 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

A-Level Tests Policy

Accounting (B50)

Advanced Level grades of A, B, C & D to be awarded 3 units of accounting elective credit (B50 0001).

Biology (L41)

Grades of A or B to be awarded 3 units of credit equivalent to Biol 100A.

Business Studies (B53)

Advanced Level grades of A, B, C & D to be awarded 3 units of management elective credit (B53 0001).

Chemistry (L07)

A grade of A to be awarded 3 units for Chem 103 and 3 units for Chem 104. These units do not replace Chem 105, Chem 106, Chem 111A, or Chem 112A. Chem 106 or Chem 112A must be completed prior to registration in Chem 261 or Chem 401 or any advanced courses in Chemistry.

A grade of B to be awarded 3 units for Chem 103. These units do not replace Chem 105, Chem 106, Chem 111A, or Chem 112A.

Computer Science (E81)

No A-Level credit given but a student can take the CSE 131 placement exam. Contact the CSE office at 314-935-6160 for more information.

Economics (L11)

3 units of undergraduate general degree credit for students with a grade (on the A-level exam) of A, contingent upon completion of Econ 4011 with a grade of B or better. The credit will not count toward the economics major/minor. Placement into any economics course is permitted (assuming other prerequisites are met); however, bypassing introductory courses may be disadvantageous, and students are strongly encouraged to consult with the department's academic coordinator. Bypassing Econ 1011 and/or Econ 1021 requires the completion of additional economics elective credit for the major/minors in Economics and for the major in Economics + Computer Science.

English (L13)

No credit or placement given.

French (L34)

A grade of A to be awarded 3 units for French 102D and 3 units of French 201D, with 3 additional units to be awarded contingent upon successful completion of a 300-level course (other than conversation). A grade of B to be awarded 3 units upon successful completion of a 300-level course.

German (L21)

No credit awarded. Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Greek (L09)

No credit awarded. Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

History (L22)

Grades of A or B to be awarded 3 units of elective credit.

Latin (L10)

No credit awarded. Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Mathematics (L24)

Advanced Level grades of A and B will be awarded 3 units of credit for Math 131 automatically. An Advanced Level grade of C will only receive credit for Math 131 upon successful completion of Math 132 with a grade of C+ or better at Washington University.

Mathematics (Further) (L24)

Advanced Level grades of A and B will be awarded 6 units of credit for Math 131 and Math 132 automatically. An Advanced Level grade of C will only receive credit for Math 131–132 upon successful completion of Math 233 with a grade of C+ or better at Washington University (or credit for Math 131 will be given for completion of Math 132); this course essentially covers all of the material in Math 131–132 together with some extra physics and probability statistics.

Music (L27)

A grade of A to be awarded 3 units each for the following courses: Music 121C and Music 122C.

Physics (L31)

A grade of A on the physics A-level exam will earn 3 units of credit for Physics 113A and 3 units of credit for Physics 114A. A grade of B on the physics A-level exam will earn 3 units of credit for Physics 113A.

Psychological & Brain Sciences (L33)

A grade of A waives the Psych 100B Introduction to Psychology requirement, but no college credit is awarded.

Spanish (L38)

No credit awarded. Students should take the departmental placement exam. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of Back Credit for preceding courses; see the Back Credit policy for details.

Advanced Placement Policy

African and African American Studies (L90)

Grade 5: Students who receive a 5 on the AP test in African American Studies will receive 3 units of elective credit for AFAS 208 African American Studies: An Introduction. These units do not replace AFAS 255, AFAS 1002, or other courses required for an AFAS major or minor.

Grade 4: Students who receive a 4 on the AP test in African American Studies will receive 3 units of elective credit for AFAS 208 African American Studies: An Introduction contingent upon the completion of AFAS 255, an AFAS first-year seminar, or an upper-level AFAS course with a grade of B or better. The AP exam elective credits do not replace AFAS 255, AFAS 1002, or other courses required for an AFAS major or minor.

Grades 3, 2, 1: No credit given.  

Art History (L01) — Test: AHS

Grade 5, 4: 3 units of elective credit for Art-Arch 113 contingent upon the completion of a 300- or 400-level Art History course with a grade of B or better. Students in the Sam Fox School must complete Art-Arch 113.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Biology (L41) — Test: BIO

Grade 5, 4: 6 units of credit for Biol 100A (elective credit). Students who plan to major in Biology or who are pre-medicine normally will enroll in Biol 2960 in the spring of freshman year and Biol 2970 in the fall of sophomore year.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Chemistry (L07) — Test: CHE

Those students who receive a 5 on the AP test in Chemistry will receive 3 units each of Chem 103 and Chem 104. Those students who receive a 4 will receive 3 units of Chem 103. Receipt of these credits has no bearing on the fulfillment of chemistry requirements for pre-medicine or any science major and cannot be used to satisfy prerequisites for Organic Chemistry. All students who receive a score of 4 or 5 on the AP exam should enroll in Chem 111A rather than Chem 105. Students who wish to pursue a Chemistry major must take Chem 111A and Chem 112A and the associated labs, Chem 151 and Chem 152. Please note that, in certain instances, students may substitute Chem 105/Chem 106 for Chem 111A/Chem 112A. Please consult the Department of Chemistry’s Director of Undergraduate Studies for details. Students who wish to pursue another major or a pre-professional preparatory curriculum requiring general chemistry must take either Chem 105 and Chem 106 or Chem 111A and Chem 112A (specific requirements are defined by the major program) and the associated labs, Chem 151 and Chem 152. Students who wish to exempt either the first or second semester of general chemistry, including the labs, must pass a placement exam administered by the Department of Chemistry during the first week of classes in the fall.

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for Chem 103 and 3 units of credit for Chem 104. These units do not replace Chem 105, Chem 106, Chem 111A, or Chem 112A.  Chem 106 or Chem 112A must be completed prior to registration in Chem 261 or Chem 401 or any advanced courses in Chemistry.

Grade 4: 3 units of Chem 103. These units do not replace Chem 105, Chem 106, Chem 111A, or Chem 112A.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Computer Science (E81) — A Test

Grade 5, 4: 3 units of general elective credit for E81 CSE 131. Students who want to confirm their skills can take the online placement exam.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit or placement given, but a student can take the online placement exam and receive "proficiency" credit if a passing score is achieved.

Computer Science (E81) — AP Computer Science Principles/Test CSP

Grade 5, 4: 3 units of general elective credit for E81 CSE 013. Students who want to confirm their skills can take the online placement exam.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given. Students who want to confirm their skills can take the online placement exam.

Economics–Micro (L11) — Test: EMI

Grade 5: 3 units of undergraduate general degree credit (L11 0001), contingent upon completion of Econ 4011 with a grade of B or better. The credit will not count toward the economics major/minor. Placement into any economics course having an Econ 1011 prerequisite is permitted; however, bypassing introductory courses may be disadvantageous, and students are encouraged to consult with the department's academic coordinator. Bypassing Econ 1011 requires the completion of additional economics elective credit for the major/minors in Economics and for the major in Economics + Computer Science.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given. Not recommended to bypass Econ 1011.

Economics–Macro (L11) — Test: EMA

Grade 5: 3 units of undergraduate general degree credit (L11 0001), contingent upon completion of Econ 4021 with a grade of B or better. The credit will not count toward the economics major/minor. Placement into any economics course having an Econ 1021 prerequisite is permitted (assuming other prerequisites are met); however, bypassing introductory courses may be disadvantageous, and students are encouraged to consult with the department's academic coordinator. Bypassing Econ 1021 requires the completion of additional economics elective credit for the major/minors in Economics and for the major in Economics + Computer Science.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given. Not recommended to bypass Econ 1021.

English: Language and Composition (L13) or Literature and Composition (L14) — Test: ENG

Grade 5: 3 credits of elective credit (L13 0001) contingent upon completing L59 111-120, L59 100 or L13 Writing 103 with a grade of B or better.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Environmental Science (L81)

No credit or placement given.

French Language (L34) — Test: LNF

All students who have previously studied French, regardless of their AP status, need to take the French Placement Exam before enrolling in their first course in the language at WashU. To receive Advanced Placement credit in French for a score of 3 or 4, students must complete a 300-level course with a grade of B or better.

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for French 203D and 3 units of credit for French 204D. These students are likely qualified for French 307, but they should take the placement exam in any case.

Grade 4: 3 units of credit for French 203D and 3 units of credit for French 204D contingent upon satisfactory completion of a 300-level course — other than conversation — conducted in the language, with a B or better.

Grade 3: 3 units of credit for French 203D and 3 units of credit for French 204D contingent upon satisfactory completion of a 300-level course — other than conversation — conducted in the language, with a B or better.

Grade 2, 1: No credit or placement given.

French Literature (L34) — Test: LNF

All students who have previously studied French, regardless of their AP status, need to take the French Placement Exam before enrolling in their first course in the language at WashU. To receive Advanced Placement credit in French for a score of 3 or 4, students must complete a 300-level course with a grade of B or better.

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for French 203D and 3 units of credit for French 204D. These students are likely qualified for French 307, but they should take the placement exam in any case.

Grade 4: 3 units of credit for French 203D and 3 units of credit for French 204D contingent upon satisfactory completion of a 300-level course — other than conversation — conducted in the language, with a B or better.

Grade 3: 3 units of credit for French 203D and 3 units of credit for French 204D contingent upon satisfactory completion of a 300-level course — other than conversation — conducted in the language, with a B or better.

Grade 2, 1: No credit or placement given.

German (L21) — Test: LNG

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for German 102D and 3 units for German 201D; students may enroll in German 202D.

Grade 4: 3 units of credit for German 102D; an additional 3 units of credit for German 201D* awarded upon satisfactory completion of German 202D (B- or better).

Grade 3: 3 units of credit for German 102D* and 3 units for German 201D, awarded upon satisfactory completion of German 202D (B- or better).

Grade 2, 1: No credit given. Students should take the departmental placement exam.

*

Students may receive this credit only if they start their language study with German 202D.

History (L22)

American History — Test: HSA (A grade of 5 on the AP exam can fulfill Introductory course requirements for the history major and minor.)

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for History 163.

Grade 4: 3 units of elective credit for History 0001.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

European History — Test: HSE (A grade of 5 on the AP exam can fulfill Introductory course requirements for the history major and minor.)

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for History 102.

Grade 4: 3 units of elective credit for History 0001.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

World History: Modern — Test: HSW (A grade of 5 on the AP exam can fulfill Introductory course requirements for the history major and minor.)

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for History 164.

Grade 4: 3 units of elective credit for History 0001.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Latin (L10) — Test: LNL

Grade 5, 4: 3 units of credit for Latin 101D and 3 units of credit for Latin 102D upon completion of Latin 301, Latin 3161, Latin 3171, ​or Latin 3181 ​with a grade of B or better. Placement at the appropriate level is determined by departmental examination.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit or placement given. Placement at the appropriate level is determined by departmental examination.

Mathematics (L24) — Test: MAB

The mathematics and statistics department gives a placement exam, which is available online and also during the fall orientation period. We ask that all entering students planning to enroll in a calculus course (except those with an AP score of 4 or 5) take the placement exam available on Canvas. Only an AP score of 5 receives automatic credit.

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for Math 131. The student will be placed into Math 132.

Grade 4: The student will be placed into Math 132. Students can still obtain credit for Math 131 by successfully completing Math 132 (see the Back Credit policy). Students should contact their major program about the program's specific requirements.

Grade 3: Students with scores of less than 4 should consult with their advisors about placement based on the Mathematics and Statistics Department Placement Test, their SAT scores, and their high school record. It will be helpful to the advisor if the student brings the title and the author's name of the calculus book used in high school and a photocopy of its table of contents, indicating which chapters were covered.

Grade 2, 1: Students will be placed into Math 131.

Mathematics (L24) — Test: MBC

The mathematics and statistics department gives a placement exam, which is available online and also during the fall orientation period. We ask that all entering students planning to enroll in a calculus course (except those with an AP score of 4 or 5) take the placement exam available on Canvas. Only an AP score of 5 receives automatic credit.

Grade 5: 3 units of credit for Math 131 and 3 units of credit for Math 132. The student will be placed into Math 233. Note: An AB Subscore of 5 will earn 3 units of credit for Math 131.

Grade 4: The student will be placed into Math 233. Students can still obtain credit for Math 132 by successfully completing Math 233 (see the Back Credit policy). Students should contact their major program about the program's specific requirements for math waivers.

Grade 3: Students with scores of less than 4 should consult with their advisors about placement based on the Mathematics and Statistics Department Placement Test, their SAT scores, and their high school record. It will be helpful to the advisor if the student brings the title and the author's name of the calculus book used in high school and a photocopy of its table of contents, indicating which chapters were covered.

Grade 2, 1: Students will be placed into Math 132.

Note: Any student entering the Calculus 131–132–233 sequence can receive AP credit for earlier courses in this sequence by successful completion of the next course in the sequence with a grade of C+ or better at Washington University. In all cases, this assumes that the student does not already have credit for the preceding courses (e.g., by transfer from another college or university).

Music Literature/Listening (L27) — Test: MUL

Grade 5: 3 units of elective credit for Music 0001.

Grade 4: 3 units of elective credit for Music 0001.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Music Theory (L27) — Test: MUT

Grade 5: 3 units of elective credit for Music 0001.

Grade 4: 3 units of elective credit for Music 0001.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Philosophy-Neuroscience-Psychology (L64)

Grade 5: Waives the L64 PNP 100B Introduction to Psychology requirement for the Philosophy-Neuroscience-Psychology Major (for both the Cognitive Neuroscience and Language Cognition and Culture Concentrations), but no college credit is awarded.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit or placement given. 

Physics (L31)

Physics 1 Test — Test: P1

Grade 5: 3 units of elective credit for Physics 113A. This corresponds to the first semester in a two-semester, algebra-based introductory physics sequence. Students who require calculus-based physics for course or major requirements should enroll in Physics 191 and Physics 191L in the fall semester.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit or placement given.

Physics 2 Test — Test: P2

Grade 5: 3 units of elective credit for Physics 114A. This corresponds to the second semester in a two-semester, algebra-based introductory physics sequence. Students who require calculus-based physics for course or major requirements should enroll in Physics 192 and Physics 192L in the spring semester. Students may not enroll in Physics 192 without first taking Physics 191.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit or placement given.

C Test (Mechanics) — Test: PCM

Grade 5: 4 total units of credit for Physics 191 (3 credits) and Physics 191L (1 credit). This corresponds to the first semester in a two-semester, calculus-based introductory physics sequence. Students may enroll in Physics 192 and Physics 192L, the second semester of this introductory calculus-based physics sequence, in the spring semester. Physics majors and students interested in an advanced treatment of introductory physics should enroll in Physics 193 and Physics 191L in the fall semester, followed by Physics 194 and Physics 192L in the spring. 

Grade 4: 3 units of elective credit for Physics 113A. This corresponds to the first semester in a two-semester, algebra-based introductory physics sequence. Students who require calculus-based physics for course or major requirements should enroll in Physics 191 and Physics 191L in the fall semester.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

C Test (Electricity and Magnetism) — Test: PCE

Grade 5: 4 total units of credit for Physics 192 (3 credits) and Physics 192L (1 credit). This corresponds to the second semester in a two-semester, calculus-based introductory physics sequence. Students who require calculus-based physics for course or major requirements should enroll in Physics 193 and Physics 191L in the fall semester, followed by Physics 194 and Physics 192L in the spring.

Grade 4: 3 units of elective credit for Physics 114A. This corresponds to the second semester in a two-semester, algebra-based introductory physics sequence. Students who require calculus-based physics for course or major requirements should enroll in Physics 191 and Physics 191L in the fall semester.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Political Science (L32)

American Politics — Test: POA

Grade 5, 4: 3 units of undergraduate credit for Pol Sci 0001, contingent upon completion of an advanced (300-/400-level) course in American politics with a grade of C or better. The credit will not count toward the political science major/minor, but it waives the Pol Sci 101B requirement.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Comparative Politics — Test: POC

Grade 5, 4: 3 units of undergraduate credit for Pol Sci 0002, contingent upon completion of an advanced (300-/400-level) course in comparative politics with a grade of C or better. The credit will not count toward the political science major/minor, but it waives the Pol Sci 102B requirement.

Grade 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Psychological & Brain Sciences (L33)

Grade 5: Waives the Psych 100B Introduction to Psychology requirement, but no college credit is awarded.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit or placement given.

Spanish Language (L38) — Test: LNS

No credit awarded. All students wishing to enroll in Spanish must take the online placement exam. Course placement is decided solely on the basis of this exam and not by AP scores. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of back credit for preceding courses.

Spanish Literature (L38) — Test: LNS

No credit awarded. All students wishing to enroll in Spanish must take the online placement exam. Course placement is decided solely on the basis of this exam and not by AP scores. Students who place into and complete higher level courses can earn up to 6 units of back credit for preceding courses.

Statistics (L87) — Test: STA

Grade 5: Students with a 5 on the AP Statistics Exam will receive 3 units of credit for SDS 2200.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

2D Art and Design (F20) — Test: A2D

Grade 5: 3 units of elective credit for Fine Arts 0001.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

3D Art and Design (F20) — Test: A3D

Grade 5: 3 units of elective credit for Fine Arts 0001.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

Drawing (F20) — Test: DRW

Grade 5: 3 units of elective credit for Fine Arts 0001.

Grade 4, 3, 2, 1: No credit given.

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