How to Apply

Application Deadline

Fall 2025

  • Deadline: January 15, 2025
  • Required New Student Orientation: August 28, 2025
  • Classes Start: September 2, 2025

Due to the cohort nature of this program, there is one start date per year: Fall term.

Eligibility

To be eligible for School Counseling, you must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university.

Program Qualifications

We are selective in our screening of prospective students. To qualify for the program, you must meet standard graduate school admission criteria and engage with faculty in a comprehensive interview. We seek individuals who present the highest potential as future practitioners.

Indicators of counselor success include:

  • High emotional intelligence
  • Demonstrated skills in conflict resolution
  • Consistent interpersonal behavior
  • Recognition of strengths and weaknesses
  • Clearly stated goals
  • Understanding of one's impact on others 

Application Requirements

If documents have been generated using Artificial Intelligence (AI), your application may be denied.

Complete the Online Application.

Official Transcripts

Submit one official transcript from each college or university listed on your application.

  • If your cumulative GPA falls below a 3.0 please include an explanation of GPA statement.
  • If you previously attended Gonzaga or are a current student, GU transcripts are ordered by your Admissions Counselor on your behalf. 

Official transcripts can be mailed or emailed to:

Gonzaga University 
Graduate Admissions Operations 
AD Box 102 
502 E. Boone Avenue 
Spokane, WA 99258-0068 
gradtranscripts@gonzaga.edu

Letter(s) of Recommendation

Provide two professional recommender(s) who can evaluate your leadership, interpersonal skills, critical thinking, judgment, professional practice and your ability and capacity to complete a graduate degree. Supervisors or past professors are great choices for recommenders. Letters of recommendation are facilitated through the online application. Recommendations from family members are not accepted.

Statement of Purpose

Submit an essay, in your own words, that is well written, organized, and no longer than 1,000 words. It must also include the following:

  • Describe your interest in the School Counseling degree
  • Assess your strengths
  • Describe what you hope to gain from this graduate degree

Resumé

Submit your current resume or curriculum vitae of professional experience.

Interview

You may be invited for an interview that will take place on Gonzaga's campus in mid-February. This will be arranged by the department after submission of your application materials.

Scholarship

If you are interested in applying for scholarships, please submit a supplemental document answering the following questions:

  • What experiences have led you to the decision to pursue a career in counseling?
  • How have your background and identities influenced your perspective on counseling?
  • How would receiving this scholarship impact your ability to succeed in the Master of School Counseling program?

 

Military-Connected & Veteran Students

  • Currently, all active-duty military members must have permission/approval from an Education Services Officer (ESO), Military Counselor, or the Military Service prior to applying.
  • For more information on how to apply for the GI Bill and related benefits, please visit the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs How to Apply page.
  • Visit Gonzaga’s Military & Veteran Students for more information regarding benefits and student support 

Questions?

Contact:

Catie Peissig
Call or Text: (509) 313-4370
Email: gradadmissions@gonzaga.edu
Schedule an Appointment