What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) and how can it lower your college tuition bill?

By Samantha Walravens

As the cost of attending college rises, students in California and 15 other U.S. states can lower their tuition bill by participating in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program. The WUE program, which includes over 160 participating colleges, offers reduced tuition rates for non-resident students of select colleges. The tuition rate at these colleges is typically capped at 150% of the institution's resident tuition.

Colleges participating in the WUE program include: **

1. Alaska: University of Alaska Anchorage, Fairbanks, Southeast

2. Arizona: Arizona State University (multiple campuses), Northern Arizona University, University of Arizona

3. California: California State University, Chico, California State University, Dominguez Hills, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, University of California, Merced

4. Colorado: Colorado State University, University of Colorado (multiple campuses), Western Colorado University

5. Hawaii: University of Hawaii (multiple campuses)

6. Idaho: Boise State University, University of Idaho

7. Montana: Montana State University (multiple campuses), University of Montana

8. Nevada: University of Nevada (Las Vegas, Reno)

9. North Dakota: North Dakota State University, University of North Dakota

10. Oregon: Oregon State University, Portland State University

11. South Dakota: University of South Dakota

12. Utah: University of Utah, Utah State University

13. Washington: Washington State University (multiple campuses), Western Washington University

14. Wyoming: University of Wyoming

** For a complete list of WUE schools, refer to the WUE Savings Finder.

How to take advantage of WUE in-state tuition rates?

To obtain in-state tuition rates through the Western Undergraduate Exchange, you must be a resident of one of the 16 participating Western states. WUE allows students to enroll in over 160 participating colleges and universities at a reduced tuition rate, typically capped at 150% of the institution's resident tuition. To apply, students need to indicate their interest in the WUE rate when submitting their application and ensure you meet any specific eligibility criteria set by the school.

Am I eligible for WUE?

Eligibility requirements for the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program include:

1. Residency: You must be a resident of one of the 16 WICHE member states or territories.

2. Application: Indicate interest in WUE on your college application and meet the specific admission criteria of the participating school, which may include GPA or test score requirements.

3. Academic Standing: Maintain good academic standing, typically a minimum GPA of 2.0, and full-time enrollment.

4. Program Limitations: Some schools may have restrictions on eligible majors or limited WUE spots, so early application is advised.