The Graduate School

1

Set up your RamNet ID Account

Your RamNet ID Account is your West Chester University student account (@wcupa.edu username and password) which provides you access to WCU email, RamPortal and more.  

If you are a former West Chester University student or employee, you do not need to create a new WCU account, simply  reset your password.

Follow these steps to Set-up Your RamNet ID, New Student Account

2

Celebrate and Share

Download printable signs, Zoom backgrounds, Snapchat filters, IG Stickers, phone backgrounds and more:
Graduate School Digital Celebration Pack

Follow The Graduate School on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn

3

Commit to Being a Golden Ram

Locate your student ID on your acceptance letter. Go to the Pay Enrollment Deposit page & follow instructions to confirm your spot.

If you are having difficulty paying, please email gradadmissions@wcupa.edu or call 610-436-2943. 

4

Learn About Class Registration

Before scheduling your classes, we recommend you contact your Graduate Coordinator or Advisor to discuss coursework and scheduling procedures, as some departments schedule their students. Once you’ve confirmed your classes and your program’s scheduling procedures, please visit our RamPortal tutorial page for helpful information about registration and degree tracking. 

5

File your FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form you need to fill out to get any financial aid from the federal government to help pay for college. The FAFSA also helps WCU's Financial Aid Office determine how much additional financial aid students may receive.  Even if you do not plan to use federal financial aid, having a FAFSA on file is required for consideration for some scholarships.

Learn more about FAFSA updates from the U.S. Department of Education

Learn more about FAFSA updates from WCU's Financial Aid Office

6

Search for Scholarships and Graduate Assistantships

We know that paying for graduate school is a significant investment, so we want to inform you about funding opportunities outside of student loans. 

Scholarship applications typically open in the Spring semester. Many scholarships, including the general scholarship application, have an annual application deadline of May 5th; however, some applications are open throughout the spring and summer. We’ve compiled a list of scholarships for graduate students here. You can also review search tips and apply here. 

Graduate Assistantships, also known as GAs, are a great opportunity to work on campus in a research or service-oriented capacity, gain valuable work experience in higher education, and earn a tuition waiver and stipend. Find open positions.  
   

7

Get your Ram Card

Your Ram Card (student ID card) provides you access to the library, student rec center (gym), printing, campus events, area discounts and more.  

Before your Ram Card can be printed, you must:

1. Upload proof of identification.   For example: driver's license, learner's permit, Passport/Visa.
2. Upload a photo of yourself to be used as your ID photo.
3. Choose whether you'd like your Ram Card mailed to you or picked up at the SSI Office (Ground Floor, Sykes Student Union).

Learn more and Upload to Ram Card

8

Review Campus Parking Options

Whether you'll be on campus regularly or just occasionally, it's helpful to understand WCU's parking options and regulations. Parking permit requirements differ for commuter and resident students.

• If you live off campus: Request a Commuter Parking Permit
• If you live on campus: Request a Village Apartment Parking Permit

During the fall and spring semesters, student parking lots are enforced Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking permits are not required in student-designated spaces after 4 p.m. or during summer and winter breaks.

9

Explore Campus Resources

WCU offers a wide range of services and engagement opportunities for graduate students!  Get started by joining the Graduate Student Association (GSA). GSA promotes the well-being of graduate students through educational, professional and social events, and advocates for graduate student needs.

Check out all campus services and resources.

10

Need Housing? 

Limited on-campus housing is available for graduate students at The Village Apartments. Admitted and confirmed students can contact leasing@ushcommunities.org for availability and leasing information.

Additionally, there are many off-campus apartment complexes in and around West Chester. We encourage you to contact Student and Family Experience for information. Also, check out the off-campus housing rentals, local apartment list, and unofficial student Facebook group. 

11

Register and Attend Orientation

Graduate Student Orientation will introduce you to your program, university systems, campus resources, and support services. You'll also have the opportunity to meet students, faculty, and staff that will support your success as a graduate student.

Learn more about Graduate Student Orientation

12

Order Your Books or Check out the Campus Store

Graduate students can search and purchase required textbooks through the WCU Campus Store. Please note that faculty may not have textbooks listed until one week before classes begin. For questions, please contact the Course Materials Department at 610-436-2242 or bookstore@wcupa.edu. 

You can visit the WCU Campus Store at Sykes Student Union, 110 W. Rosedale Ave. 

13

Explore Downtown West Chester

Downtown West Chester offers many businesses, shops, dining, and events! Check out the events calendar to view First Fridays, Restaurant Week, Gallery Walk, Open-Air Market, and more! Visit downtownwestchester.com for all the excitement!

14

Access WCU Portals and Pages

• Graduate Admissions Portal: View your acceptance letter, RamNet ID information, acceptance letter, and register for orientation.
• RamPortal, Student Information System: Register for classes, pay your tuition bill, view grades and more.
• D2L: Access your class work, course syllabi, check grades and submit assignments. D2L is your main hub for online courses.
• Webmail: Check your WCU email through Outlook Office 365.

15

First Day of Classes!

Monday, August 24, 2026

Welcome to your first day of class as a WCU Graduate Student! Don't forget there are hundreds of resources and supports on campus to help you be successful inside and outside the classroom.

Your Graduate Coordinator is your contact for course help, registering for your next class, and more. Helpful links for you:

• D2L – Access your class work, course syllabi, grades and more.
• Graduate Student Association
• Academic Calendar
• Featured Campus Events
• Student Events