Be Boundless
The UW is one of the world’s preeminent public universities. Our impact on individuals, our region and the world is profound — whether we are launching young people into a boundless future or confronting the grand challenges of our time through undaunted research and scholarship. Ranked No. 1 among Public Universities that Payoff the Most according to CNBC’s 2019 rankings, the UW educates more than 54,000 students annually. We turn ideas into impact and transform lives and our world.
What defines UW students, faculty and community members? Above all, it’s our belief in possibility and our unshakable optimism. It’s a connection to others near and far. It’s a hunger that pushes us to tackle challenges and pursue progress. It’s the conviction that together we can create a world of good. Join us on the journey.
Academics
At the UW, we look at things differently. We look at what might be, not just what is. That goes for majors, too. What ignites your love of learning. Is it world languages? Computing? Business? So many different paths lead from a single interest. With 180 majors, you can find the focus that's right for you. The UW is here to help you discover where you want to go.
The UW operates on a quarter system, with a normal course load of 15 credits per quarter. Your undergraduate degree is earned upon the successful completion of at least 180 quarter credits, distributed among general education, the major, and electives and optional minors. New students are encouraged to take advantage of advising resources for pre-major students and to explore programs such as First-year Interest Groups (pre-arranged cluster of classes in autumn quarter), Collegium Seminars, and CLUE (free late-night study hall). The UW supports undergraduate research, internships, study abroad, service learning, and other forms of experiential learning. Every year, more than 9,000 undergraduates participate in research, culminating in the spring Research Symposium.
Residential life
Through residential life, you'll discover your place. You'll discover a way of life that keeps you closer to everything: friends, classes, dining, and boundless opportunity. The goal of on-campus living is to create a foundation for your success, offering unique access to amenities and support. Be a part of the action as you gain independence and get to know other students.
On-campus housing is guaranteed for freshmen who apply during the priority period in early May. You're not required to live on campus, but70% of freshmen do.
Extracurricular life
Your Husky Experience doesn't end when you leave the classroom. The hours you spend outside of class are just as vital. Work out, chill out, find your community. Climb a rock, climb a mountain, discover what's down the street or across town. Join a student club (we've got more than 800 to choose from), lead the club, change yourself and the world.
Admissions website
Please consult the Office of Admissions website for more information.
Deadline information
- September 1 – Application opens
- November 15 – Application deadline
The UW does not participate in Early Decision/Early Action. There is one application deadline for autumn quarter.
Required application materials
U.S. freshmen applicants
- TheCoalitionProfile + UW Questions
- $80 Application fee or fee waiver
- Scores from the SAT or ACT are no longer required. However, you may submit them if you’d like.
- Please do not send letters of recommendation or other supplemental items.
International freshmen applicants
- The CoalitionProfile + UW Questions
- 90 USD Application fee
- Scores from TOEFL or IELTS (no preference), sent directly from the testing agency. Learn more about the minimum test score requirements for English proficiency.
- Scores from the SAT or ACT are no longer required. However, you may submit them if you’d like.
- Please do not send letters of recommendation or other supplemental items.
Financial aid
We believe students from all economic backgrounds should have the opportunity to attend the University of Washington. Finances should not be a barrier to getting a world-class education.
Husky Promise is our guarantee to Washington state students that we will not let financial challenges stand in the way of discovering their potential or achieving a UW degree. The Husky Promise guarantees full tuition and standard fees will be covered by grant or scholarship support for eligible Washington state students. The Husky Promise ensures that the UW remains affordable and accessible to Washington residents who are Pell Grant eligible.
The UW offers a variety of scholarship programs for undergraduates. U.S. students (U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees and undocumented residents) who are not residents of Washington state may explore the Purple & Gold Scholarship.
- Net Price Calculator
- % of undergraduate students on Financial Aid - 50%
- % of undergraduate students without debt at graduation - 58%
- Total Cost of Attendance
- Average Financial Aid Award - $17,600
We encourage you to learn more about University of Washington financial aid.
