Before You Apply

Here are a few helpful things to keep in mind:

• We'll be with you every step of the application process! You will be paired with a dedicated online admissions associate, who is there to answer any questions you may have regarding your grad school application, next steps, and more.
• In order to apply for a graduate program, a student must already have an undergraduate degree. GRE/GMAT scores are not required.
• It’s a good idea to check the JWU College of Online Education's Computer & Browser Requirements to ensure that you can fully participate in online learning at JWU.

Contact us at 1-855-JWU-1881 or [email protected] with any questions on getting started!

Apply Year-Round

Choose from six semester start dates, each running eight weeks. Meeting the recommended application deadline will allow your dedicated admissions associate time to work with you and prepare you for success.

How to Apply

Step 1: Submit Your Free Application

Apply Online 

Step 2: Submit Your Academic Transcript(s)

Applicants have two options to submit their official academic transcripts:

• Request your Own Transcript: Applicants should contact their previous institution(s) or visit the Registrar’s Office website at their previous institution(s) for instructions on how to request academic transcripts. Transcripts should be mailed directly to 115 Cedar Street, Providence, RI 02903. For institutions with online request options, please use [email protected] as the recipient.
• Allow JWU to attempt to request on your behalf: Applicants can also work with their dedicated online admissions associate to complete a Transcript Request Form via DocuSign, which will allow JWU to request transcript(s) on their behalf.

Please note that it is not a guarantee that JWU can collect transcript(s) as some schools require requests or additional authorization forms to come directly from the student. JWU must receive transcripts, diplomas, and/or certifications from all high school/postsecondary schools, so you may receive more than one Docusign request to complete.

Step 3: Submit Two Recommendations

Applicants must submit two recommendations. JWU Online offers the ability for references to complete their recommendation via a brief online survey. Your recommender will be asked to evaluate your ability on a number of various criteria.

To submit your recommendations, you can choose from the following options:

• Online form: Complete a reference contact information form via Docusign. Your Online Admissions Associate will then send a recommendation form directly to your recommender.  
• Mail: College of Online Education, Johnson & Wales University, 115 Cedar St., Providence, RI 02903 
• Email: o[email protected]
• Fax: 401-598-4553, Attn: College of Online Education Admissions

Step 3: Submit a Statement of Purpose

You can complete your statement of purpose completely online (applicants are emailed a link). You can also email your statement of purpose to [email protected] Your statement should respond to the following prompt:

The typical Week 1 assignment for graduate students is to introduce yourself to the class in a discussion board forum. In approximately 250 words, please introduce yourself as if you were completing this assignment. Include why you are pursuing a degree, your educational background, current professional experience, and something unique about yourself.  

Don’t Forget to File Your FAFSA

If you plan to use federal financial aid, apply as soon as possible. Filing is free and it’s easy — and it’s the only way to check your availability for federal student aid.

• Apply for a FSA ID. This will allow you to sign your FAFSA electronically. 
• Submit your FAFSA. You’ll need your FSA ID (see above), SSN, driver’s license, your Federal tax return, and JWU’s school code: 003404

Non-Degree Options

Through the JWU College of Online Education, students may register for courses without applying for degree status in an eligible program. Undergraduate students may register for a maximum of 18 credits (6 courses), while graduate students can register for a maximum of 9 credits (3 courses) on a non-degree basis. For more information, click here.