Woodbury University Admissions 2025: Programs and Requirements

Woodbury University (WU) is a career-focused, private university in Burbank, California, where students gain real-world skills, industry connections, and personal guidance every step of the way. Known for its creative programs and close-knit campus, WU helps students grow in fields such as design, architecture, business, and media.

It’s ranked #47 in Regional Universities West and #36 in Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report. WU also stands out for helping students succeed beyond college, landing at #19 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. According to QS U.S. University Rankings, it’s placed in the #251–300 bracket nationally.

If you're looking for a place that values creativity, supports your goals, and helps you build your future from day one, WU could be the right fit. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it unique.

About Woodbury University

Woodbury University is a private school in Burbank, California, just north of Los Angeles. It was founded in 1884 and has a 22-acre campus.

The university keeps classes small, about 10 students per class, so professors can give more personal attention. There are over 30 student communities and organizations on campus.

According to the latest Woodbury University ranking, it is listed among the top 10 “must-watch” universities in the U.S. Its School of Business is in the top 5% worldwide. It also ranks in the top 4% of U.S. colleges for economic value after graduation.

The campus has been used as a filming location for movies and shows like The Brothers Sun and The Politician.

Courses Offered at Woodbury University

Woodbury Burbank offers over 20 undergraduate and graduate programs across four major schools. Each school focuses on industry-relevant, skill-based education with small class sizes and hands-on learning opportunities.

School of Architecture

The School of Architecture offers STEM-designated degrees that explore the built environment through design, technology, and sustainability.

School of Media: Culture: Design

This school focuses on creative programs that prepare students for careers in animation, filmmaking, fashion, game design, and psychology.

School of Business

The School of Business prepares students for leadership in business, marketing, IT, and entrepreneurship, offering one of the oldest accounting programs in Southern California.

School of Liberal Arts and Sciences

This school offers flexible programs focused on public service, politics, data analytics, and interdisciplinary study.

Woodbury University Admission Requirements

Woodbury University is an industry-focused private university in Burbank, California. WU is known for its career-oriented programs. Here's what it takes to apply:

Woodbury University Admissions – International Freshman Applicants

International freshmen are high school seniors or graduates who have not yet enrolled in college-level coursework. The following are the admission requirements for freshmen:

• Application: Submit the Common Application or Woodbury University Application. No need to send both. 
• Fee: No application fee required.
• Academic Records: Official high school transcripts or GED equivalent
• English Proficiency (any one): You can submit scores from any one of the following approved tests:

• Portfolio (required for specific majors):
  Architecture, Interior Design, Animation + VFX, Filmmaking (BFA), Game Art + Design, Experience Design, Fashion Design
• Optional Documents:
  SAT/ACT scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement (up to 500 words)

Woodbury University Admission Deadlines & Intakes 2025

Woodbury Burbank accepts applications on a rolling basis. However, meeting the priority deadlines improves your chances for admission, scholarships, and timely I-20 processing if you're an international applicant.

Priority Deadlines

• Woodbury University admissions applications submitted after March 1 may still be considered, but space and scholarship availability are limited.
• International students must apply before the March 1 deadline to allow enough time for I-20 processing.
• While there are no strict final deadlines, applying after the priority date reduces access to financial aid and housing.
• Graduate program deadlines generally follow the same schedule but may differ slightly by program. It's best to confirm with your department.

How to Apply to Woodbury University

Take the next step toward your future at Woodbury University Burbank. Follow these quick steps to stay on track:

1. Step 1: Choose Your Program
   Explore undergraduate or graduate programs and pick the one that fits your goals.
2. Step 2: Complete the Application
   Apply through the Woodbury Application (Freshman/Transfer) or the Common Application (Freshman only).
3. Step 3: Upload Academic Records
   Submit high school and/or academic transcripts. Final official transcripts are needed before enrollment.
4. Step 4: Submit Test Scores (Optional)
   SAT/ACT scores are not required, but may be submitted to strengthen your application.
5. Step 5: Add Supporting Documents (Optional)
   You may include letters of recommendation, a Statement of Purpose, and a personal essay to support your application.
6. Step 6: Submit Portfolio (If Required)
   Some majors require a portfolio via SlideRoom; check your program's requirements.
7. Step 7: Request Academic Fresh Start (If Eligible)
   You can apply for a clean academic record if past college credits are over 10 years old.
8. Step 8: Apply by Priority Deadlines
   Submit by March 1 for Fall or November 1 for Spring for the best scholarship and I-20 consideration.

Woodbury University Tuition Fees (2025–2026)

WU is a private university with flat-rate and per-unit tuition options. Costs vary by course load and program type.

Undergraduate Tuition Fees

Undergraduate students pay a flat rate for full-time study (12–18 units). Additional units or part-time enrollment are charged per unit.

Graduate Tuition Fees

Graduate programs are charged per credit unit. All major programs have the same per-unit cost.

Scholarship Opportunities at Woodbury University (2025–2026)

Over 96% of undergraduates at Woodbury University California receive financial aid. In 2024–25, the average award was more than $25,238.

Best Student Housing Near  Woodbury University

Woodbury University offers on-campus housing options like North Hall and South Hall, with semester rates ranging from $4,483 to $6,693. But if you’re looking for more flexibility, student housing near Woodbury University is also available through Amber provides secure, affordable off-campus housing near campus.

Top nearby options include:

• 393 Topeka, Irvine
• The Oasis, Los Angeles
• Lex by Category, Los Angeles
• 4749 Elmwood Ave, Los Angeles
• The Alice, 623 N Normandie Ave

Browse, compare, and book your student housing with Amber quickly and easily.