University of Washington-Seattle Campus
The Vibe Check
The University of Washington-Seattle feels like a vibrant, tech-forward hub nestled between the energy of downtown and the serenity of Puget Sound. Students navigate a bustling, fast-paced environment where academic ambition meets Pacific Northwest outdoor culture, often splitting time between high-tech labs and nearby hiking trails or coffee shops.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UW is a global powerhouse in research, particularly in computer science, engineering, and health sciences, with state-of-the-art facilities and renowned faculty. The academic culture is rigorous and collaborative, emphasizing hands-on research opportunities from undergraduate years through partnerships with industry giants like Microsoft and Amazon.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Seattle
Student life in Seattle is dynamic, with easy access to world-class coffee, music venues, and a thriving food scene, from food trucks to fine dining. Students often spend weekends exploring nearby natural escapes like Mount Rainier or the Olympic Peninsula, enjoying the city's blend of urban culture and outdoor adventure.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($78,466):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Seattle campus is located in the vibrant University District, which has a generally safe campus core with robust security patrols and well-lit pathways. However, students should remain aware of their surroundings, as the surrounding urban area can experience typical city issues like petty theft.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Top-tier research opportunities in computer science, engineering, and health sciences with direct industry ties to Seattle's tech giants.
- ✓ High graduation and retention rates (84% and 94.9%) indicating strong student support and academic satisfaction.
- ✓ Affordable in-state tuition and robust financial aid, making it accessible for Washington residents.
- ✓ Prime urban location offering access to internships, cultural events, and outdoor recreation in the Pacific Northwest.
Cons
- ✗ Highly competitive admissions, especially for popular majors like Computer Science, with limited spots for out-of-state students.
- ✗ Large enrollment of over 31,000 students can lead to crowded classes and a less personalized experience in introductory courses.
- ✗ Seattle's high cost of living and rainy weather may pose challenges for some students adjusting to urban life.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UW-Seattle is renowned for its pioneering research in computer science, engineering, and health professions, driven by partnerships with tech leaders like Microsoft and Amazon. It is also celebrated for its beautiful campus, featuring iconic cherry blossoms in the Quad, and its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the Pacific Northwest.
Yes, with an acceptance rate of 42.53%, UW-Seattle is moderately selective, favoring applicants with strong academic records, especially in STEM fields. In-state applicants have a slight advantage, but out-of-state candidates need competitive GPAs and test scores (if submitted) to stand out in the holistic review process.
Campus life is energetic and diverse, with over 1,000 student organizations, Greek life, and events tied to Seattle's cultural scene. Students enjoy a mix of urban exploration, outdoor activities, and a collaborative vibe, though the large size means you must actively seek out communities to feel connected.
Absolutely, especially for in-state students, given the low tuition and high median earnings of $78,466 after 10 years. For out-of-state students, the ROI is strong in high-paying fields like tech and engineering, but financial planning is key due to higher costs and Seattle's living expenses.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1861
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 39,850
- In-State Tuition $12,643
- Out-of-State $41,997
- Zip Code 98195
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition of $12,643 and an average net price of $13,485, UW offers exceptional value for Washington residents, making it a financially smart choice. For out-of-state students at $41,997, the investment is significant but justified by strong 10-year median earnings of $78,466, especially in high-demand fields like tech and engineering.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.