Admissions— Your Future Starts Here
At William Howard Taft University, we recognize that education is an investment in your future. Whether you're advancing your career, transitioning industries, or seeking academic excellence, our innovative, flexible, and student-focused programs are designed to meet you where you are. With a commitment to academic rigor and real-world application, WHTU provides an education that is both accessible and exceptional.
Key Links
Admissions Requirements
Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions
| Program | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s (BSBA) | Associate’s degree or partial Bachelor’s completion from an accredited institution |
| Master’s (MBA, M.Ed., MST,) | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution |
| Master of Law in Taxation (LLM) | Juris Doctor degree |
| Doctorate (DBA, EdD) | Master’s degree from an accredited institution |
| Juris Doctor Executive Track (JDET) | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution |
Special Applicants
Don’t meet the exact requirements? Our academic team takes a holistic approach to its applicant review; application evaluations are conducted on a case-by-case basis. We recognize each applicant as an individual.
Significant work experience or professional certifications may also be considered in place of traditional academic credentials. Special applicants admitted without significant related work experience should expect to devote additional time to coursework.
The Application Process
Applying is straightforward and designed to fit your schedule.
Explore Programs
Choose the best fit for your academic and career goals.
Submit Your Application
Submit your application online.
Check Requirements
Review the admissions criteria above to ensure eligibility.
Receive Admission Decision
Our team reviews applications promptly, and you’ll receive an update on your status within a week.
Need Guidance?
Our team is here to answer questions, walk you through program details, and guide you toward the right next step in your journey.
Transcripts
Transcripts play an important role in both the admissions process and student record management. When submitting prior academic records for admission, the university accepts unofficial transcripts.
Official transcripts must be received 30 days after the start of your first class.
Explore Programs
When applying to WHTU, you may submit unofficial transcripts for admission purposes. However, official transcripts from all prior colleges and universities attended are required once you are enrolled.
Transcripts are considered official only when they are sent directly from the issuing institution.
Official transcripts may be sent:
electronically to Transcripts@TaftU.edu
or mailed to our California Administrative Office.
3000 W. MacArthur Blvd. Suite 300
Santa Ana, CA 92704
International Students
We welcome students from around the world and are committed to providing a supportive academic experience.
Language Proficiency
Non-native English speakers who have not completed another degree with an English-speaking university must meet TOEFL/IELTS requirements:
- Undergraduate/Master’s: TOEFL 530 (PBT) / 71 (iBT) or equivalent.
- Doctorate/JD/LL.M.: TOEFL 550 (PBT) / 80 (iBT) or IELTS 6.5.
Degree Evaluation
Transcripts from non-U.S. institutions must be evaluated by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services, Inc. (NACES) member organization or the Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE)
- Applicants will be assessed a fee by the certifying organization and should request that the report be sent directly to WHTU University.
- Applicants transferring in a degree need to request a General Degree Evaluation, sometimes called a Document by Document Evaluation.
- Applicants wishing to transfer in credits toward specific courses must request a Course-by-Course report.
Do You Have Questions?
Applying as an international student can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team will guide you through each step of the process and help ensure your application is smooth and successful.
Military and Veteran Benefits
We proudly support service members and veterans in achieving their academic goals with flexible programs and dedicated guidance.
Tuition Assistance and GI Bill® Benefits
WHTU accepts VA education benefits and tuition assistance, helping you maximize the resources available to fund your degree.
Flexible Learning
Our fully online courses are designed to fit around active duty schedules and support a smooth transition into civilian careers.
Specialized Support
A dedicated team is here to guide you through using your benefits, transferring prior credits, and selecting the program that best meets your goals.
Programs That Align with Military Experience
Degrees in business, leadership, education, and law help you translate military skills into meaningful career advancement.
Transfer Credits and Prior Learning Assessment
We recognize that learning happens both in and outside of the classroom. Students may apply for academic credit through the following options:
Program-Specific Transfer Credit Allowances*
DBA — 9 credits
JDET — 37 credits (from a JD program )
LLM — None
MBA, MPA, MST — 15 credits
BSBA — 30 credits
*Courses must be at the same academic level as the program to which they are being applied (e.g., master’s-level courses for master’s programs).
**Transfer credits into the Master of Science in Taxation (MST) program must have been completed within the last three years.
Program-Specific Portfolio Credit Allowances
MBA — 15 credits
MPA — 15 credits
BSBA — 30 credits*
DBA — None
JDET — None
LLM — None
MST — None
*Credits from experiential learning and credit by exam may count toward the BSBA program.
Students must submit official transcripts and supporting documents for credit evaluation.
Make Your
Experience Count
Turn your past coursework, professional experience, and training into academic credit. Our team will guide you through the transfer and prior learning assessment process, helping you save time, reduce costs, and focus on completing your degree.
Tuition and Aid
Understanding the cost of your education is an important step in planning for your future. William Howard Taft University is committed to providing a high-quality, affordable education with flexible options to help you manage tuition costs. For full details on tuition, financial aid options, and available payment plans, visit our Tuition and Aid page.
Transparent Tuition Rates
Our tuition structure is clear and predictable, with no hidden fees—so you always know the cost of your education upfront.
Flexible Payment Plans
Spread your tuition payments over manageable installments, making it easier to budget for your degree without financial strain.
Financial Aid
Eligible students enrolled in programs with Directed Study may qualify for federal financial aid to help reduce the immediate cost of tuition.
Employer Tuition Assistance
If your employer offers tuition reimbursement, we’ll work with you to coordinate the paperwork and maximize available benefits to offset educational expenses.
Take the Next Step Toward an Affordable Education
Your future starts here. Apply today, speak with an advisor, or request information to get started. Our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.