The University of Washington (UW), located in Seattle, is a renowned public research institution known for its commitment to innovation, diversity, and academic excellence. With a total undergraduate enrollment of approximately 39,125 students, UW offers a dynamic and engaging environment for scholars from around the globe.U.S. News+1NextGen Admit+1
If you’re considering applying to UW, it’s essential to present a compelling application. Our statement of purpose editing services and college application essay editing can help refine your essays to effectively showcase your strengths. UW is also featured in our Top 200 US Universities for 2025, providing insights into its standing among leading institutions.
Academic Programs
UW offers a wide array of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- College of Arts & Sciences: Encompassing humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and more.
- College of Engineering: Offering programs in computer science, mechanical engineering, bioengineering, and others.
- Michael G. Foster School of Business: Providing degrees in business administration, accounting, finance, and marketing.
- School of Nursing: Recognized for excellence in nursing education and research.
- College of the Environment: Focusing on environmental science, forestry, marine biology, and related fields.
Popular majors at UW include computer science, engineering, business, biology, and psychology. The university encourages interdisciplinary study and research, allowing students to tailor their educational experiences to their interests and career goals.
Admissions Overview
Admission to UW is competitive. For the Class of 2028, the university received over 62,000 applications and admitted approximately 26,500 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of around 42%. In-state applicants tend to have a higher acceptance rate compared to out-of-state applicants. College Transitions
Academic Environment
UW maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1, fostering an environment where students can engage with faculty members and participate in research opportunities. The university operates on a quarter system, allowing students to explore a variety of courses throughout the academic year. With a strong emphasis on research, UW provides numerous opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in cutting-edge projects across various fields.NextGen Admit
University of Washington Admissions Statistics (Class of 2028)
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Applicants | 62,428 |
| Students Admitted | 26,552 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~42% |
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | 39,125 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 20:1 |
| SAT Middle 50% Range | 1280–1490 |
| ACT Middle 50% Range | 30–34 |
| Average High School GPA | 3.8 |
Sources:
Admissions data: University of Washington Admissions
Testing and GPA data: University of Washington Admissions Statistics
General information: University of Washington – Wikipedia
Student Life at UW
UW’s Seattle campus offers a vibrant student life with over 1,000 student organizations, including cultural clubs, service organizations, and academic societies. The campus is located in the heart of Seattle, providing students with access to a bustling urban environment rich in culture, entertainment, and professional opportunities.
The university has a strong athletic presence, with the Washington Huskies competing in the NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference. Students actively support Husky athletics, fostering a strong sense of school spirit and community.
What’s Good
- Research Opportunities: “UW provides ample opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in meaningful research across various disciplines.”
- Diverse Campus: “The student body is diverse, creating a rich cultural and intellectual environment.”
- Location: “Being in Seattle offers incredible access to internships, cultural events, and a thriving job market.”
What’s Not-So-Great
- Large Class Sizes: “Some introductory courses can be quite large, making it challenging to connect with professors.”
- Housing: “Securing on-campus housing can be competitive, and off-campus options can be expensive.”
- Weather: “Seattle’s rainy season can be long and gloomy, which might not suit everyone.”
Admissions Requirements at the University of Washington
UW employs a holistic admissions process, considering various factors:
- Academic Performance: Emphasis on high school GPA, course rigor, and academic trends.
- Standardized Test Scores: UW is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission.
- Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership roles, community service, and unique talents are highly valued.
- Essays and Recommendations: Personal statements provide insight into the applicant’s character and fit for UW. Notably, UW does not consider the Common App personal statement and requires applicants to respond to specific UW essay prompts. Office of Admissions
Does UW Require the Common App Essay?
No, UW does not consider the Common App personal statement. Applicants must respond to the specific essay prompts provided in the UW application. Office of Admissions+1Office of Admissions+1
SAT and ACT Requirements
UW is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores. If you choose to submit them, they will be considered as part of a broader review. Most successful applicants submit:
SAT: 1280–1490
ACT: 30–34
However, strong grades, leadership, and well-crafted essays can more than make up for a lack of test scores.
GPA Expectations
While there is no official cutoff, the average GPA of admitted students is 3.8. Competitive applicants often take AP, IB, or college-level courses and demonstrate upward trends or consistent excellence throughout high school.
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Nearby and Comparable Universities
The University of Washington is located in Seattle, which is home to other respected institutions and near top universities in the Pacific Northwest. Comparable universities include:
- University of Oregon – strong public research university with a beautiful campus and growing programs
- University of British Columbia (UBC) – top Canadian university just a few hours away, internationally ranked
- Washington State University – also a public flagship, located in Pullman, WA
- Stanford University – West Coast elite university with strong tech and research links
- UC Berkeley – highly selective public university with similar research strengths
- University of Michigan – often compared for its large research infrastructure and public mission
Each of these institutions shares UW’s dedication to research, academic depth, and global engagement.
Note: All data and statistics are sourced from the University of Washington’s official publications and reputable third-party sources. For the most up-to-date information, visit UW Undergraduate Admissions.