UNITED STATES · SEATTLE
University of Washington
public · Founded 1861 · Languages: en
In short
The University of Washington is a top-ranked public research university in Seattle, offering over 300 degree programs with strengths in tech and health fields, and providing significant research and internship opportunities.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1861
- Students
- 47,571
- International students
- 7,000
- Acceptance rate
- 49%
- Tuition (intl)
- €37–42k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Seattle, United States
The University of Washington is a flagship public research university in Seattle, Washington, founded in 1861. It offers more than 300 degree programs across 16 colleges and schools, with particular strength in computer science, medicine, public health, engineering, and environmental science. UW is consistently ranked among the top public research universities in the world and is a leading recipient of federal research funding in the United States. Seattle's vibrant tech and biotech ecosystem gives UW students unmatched access to industry internships and careers.
Why study here
- Top-5 US public university for federal research funding — exceptional lab and research access for undergrad and graduate students.
- Located in Seattle, the tech capital of the Pacific Northwest, with direct access to Amazon, Microsoft, and thousands of startups.
- Husky Promise program guarantees full tuition coverage for eligible low-income Washington state students.
- World-renowned programs in computer science (Paul G. Allen School), medicine, global health, and environmental science.
- A diverse, international campus community representing 130+ countries with 300+ degree programs to choose from.
Student life
Life at the University of Washington is rich with opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Students can explore over 800 registered student organizations, 50+ fraternities and sororities, and robust intramural and varsity sports (the Huskies compete in the Big Ten). The Husky 100 program recognizes students who excel and make the most of their university experience. Seattle offers world-class dining, outdoor recreation in the Cascades and Olympics, a thriving music and arts scene, and direct access to the Pacific Northwest's natural wonders.
Fees
International~36,500–42,000 EUR/year
Home~12,500 EUR/year (WA resident tuition)
Living~18,000–22,000 EUR/year for housing, food, transport, and personal expenses in Seattle
Husky Promise covers full tuition for eligible low-income WA residents. Graduate tuition varies by program.
Admissions
Undergraduate GPAStrong GPA with rigorous coursework including 4 English, 3+ math, 3 science (2 lab), 3 social studies, 2 world language credits
Graduate ApplicantsBaccalaureate degree from accredited institution; minimum 3.0 GPA on 4.0 scale in last 60 credits
Application PortalUW uses its own application system (not Common App) for freshman applicants
TOEFL iBT92 minimum (undergraduate); 106+ for competitive graduate programs
IELTS7.0 minimum (undergraduate); 7.5 for most graduate programs
Duolingo English Test120 minimum (undergraduate)
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 202582
US News Best Public Universities20
Times Higher Education World University Rankings50
Princeton Review – Top 10 Value Public College8
University scholarships
Husky PromiseFull tuition coverage for eligible WA residents from low-income families
UW College of Education Scholarships$2,000–full cost of education; average ~$2,500
Graduate Teaching/Research AssistantshipsFull or partial tuition waiver plus stipend (~$20,000–30,000/year)
Mary Gates Endowment Scholarships$5,000 for undergraduates engaged in creative or research projects
Accreditation
Regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The School of Public Health is accredited by CEPH. Engineering programs are ABET-accredited. Business programs are AACSB-accredited.
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Washington · United States
CEI Graduate Fellowship
The CEI Graduate Fellowship at the University of Washington supports exceptional doctoral researchers focused on clean energy solutions. This fellowship aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders and innovators in the field. Fellows will conduct original research, develop science communication skills, and engage in professional development and outreach activities to enhance public understanding of clean energy issues. The fellowship particularly encourages applications that integrate artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and high-throughput approaches into clean energy research, whether by applying existing AI/ML expertise or by adopting new data-driven methodologies. The program emphasizes research excellence, leadership potential, and active participation within the Clean Energy Institute (CEI) community.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Washington · United States
Chemistry at the University of Washington
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Washington offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including Bachelor of Arts and Science degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry, a Master of Science in Applied Chemical Science and Technology, and a PhD in Chemistry. As a central science, chemistry provides a gateway to understanding the manufactured and living world, equipping students with skills for diverse career paths. The department fosters a vibrant, inclusive community dedicated to training future scientific leaders through cutting-edge research and innovative education.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Washington · United States
Department of Global Health - Training Programs
The University of Washington's Department of Global Health offers a variety of training programs designed to equip students and professionals with advanced skills in global health research and practice. These programs cater to diverse interests, from clinical research in low-resource settings to the application of cutting-edge technology in public health. Many programs emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration and provide hands-on experience through partnerships with international institutions. Students in these programs benefit from mentorship by leading experts in the field and engage in research that addresses critical global health challenges. The department is committed to developing the next generation of global health leaders through rigorous academic training and practical application of knowledge.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
11 mo
Duration
University of Washington · United States
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program at the University of Washington's College of Education prepares students for careers in research, scholarly inquiry, and teaching at the college level. The program integrates continuous research, comprehensive coursework in education and related fields, and tailored teaching experiences. Students work closely with an advisor and a faculty Supervisory Committee to develop a strong academic foundation, advanced research skills, and a specialty in an area outside of education. The curriculum aims to provide deep scholarly knowledge, a broad understanding of research methodologies, competency in supportive cognate areas, and excellence in college teaching. Graduates pursue careers at national and regional research universities, community colleges, K-12 settings, foundations, agencies, and private businesses.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
University of Washington · United States
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Operations Management
The PhD program in Operations Management at the University of Washington's Foster School of Business is designed for students aiming for academic and research careers. This area of study focuses on the functional aspects of organizations that produce goods and services. The curriculum delves into contemporary changes in supply chain management, influenced by advancements in information technology, global market expansion, and evolving consumer expectations regarding quality and sophistication.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
University of Washington · United States
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Pharmaceutics
The University of Washington offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Pharmaceutics. This research-based program focuses on advanced study and independent research at the intersection of biological sciences and pharmaceutical sciences. It prepares students for careers in academic research, industry, and government by providing a strong foundation in both theoretical principles and practical applications within the field.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated annual costs for international students at the University of Washington?
+
International students can expect annual fees ranging from approximately 36,500 to 42,000 EUR for tuition. Additionally, living expenses for housing, food, transportation, and personal needs in Seattle are estimated between 18,000 and 22,000 EUR per year.
What academic programs is the University of Washington known for?
+
The University of Washington offers over 300 degree programs and is particularly recognized for its strengths in computer science, medicine, public health, engineering, and environmental science.
Does the University of Washington offer research opportunities for students?
+
Yes, the University of Washington is a leading recipient of federal research funding in the United States, providing exceptional lab and research access for both undergraduate and graduate students.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
For undergraduate programs, a TOEFL iBT score of 92 is the minimum requirement. For graduate programs, a TOEFL iBT score of 106+ is recommended, or an IELTS score of 7.0 for undergraduates and 7.5 for most graduate programs.
How does the University of Washington support students' career prospects?
+
Located in Seattle, a major tech and biotech hub, the university provides students with unparalleled access to internships and career opportunities with leading companies like Amazon and Microsoft, as well as numerous startups.
Last updated