09/11/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/11/2026 08:35
Simplifying the path to higher education for Mountain State students, West Virginia University is now offering direct admissions decisions to qualifying high school seniors in Monongalia County and Kanawha County through the newly launched WVU Express.
The pilot program eliminates traditional application and application fee requirements for eligible students interested in enrolling for classes on the WVU Morgantown Campus.
Acceptance offers are made through school counselors following evaluations of student academic achievement.
"Any West Virginia student who wants to attend West Virginia University has a place with us and WVU Express is one step we're taking remove barriers to educational opportunities," President Michael T. Benson said while announcing the program during the Sept. 11 Board of Governors meeting.
"As West Virginia's flagship, land-grant, R1 research university, WVU is committed to creating more pathways for students across the state to pursue their goals, discover their potential, and find their place as Mountaineers."
Through partnerships with participating West Virginia high schools, eligible students who receive WVU Express admissions offers at school after completing an authorization form will be able to claim their admissions, confirm their information, and complete next steps to join the incoming class.
"We're committed to meeting our prospective students where they are, and that includes in our West Virginia schools," said Fabrizio D'Aloisio, vice president for Enrollment Management.
"Our hope is that we'll eventually be able to roll out WVU Express to other West Virginia counties and, in doing so, expand access to the life-changing experiences we offer to our students."
Students who are not eligible for WVU Express will still be able to apply through the traditional WVU application.
In its first year, Monongalia County and Kanawha County will serve as launch sites.
"Students come from around the world to experience what WVU has to offer. We are excited that our qualifying students will be recognized by the University for their accomplishments and have the opportunity to work directly with their high school counselors to streamline a path to higher education in their home state," Monongalia County Schools Superintendent Eddie R. Campbell Jr. said.
"The WVU Express admissions initiative embodies the University's commitment to making enrollment simple and accessible, while recognizing the achievements of West Virginia high school graduates who have earned a clear pathway to becoming a Mountaineer," said Jon Duffy, Kanawha County Schools executive director for student support and assessment.
Find more information about WVU Express, including eligibility details.
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