Is the University of Washington public or private?

The University of Washington is a public university founded in 1861. It operates major campuses in Seattle, Bothell and Tacoma, with different programmes, budgets and student experiences at each campus.

Which UW campus should an international student choose?

Seattle is the main research campus and offers the broadest catalogue, while Bothell and Tacoma have smaller, more regionally focused communities. The programme page determines the campus, so applicants should not assume that a UW degree is delivered in Seattle.

What is the medium of instruction?

The listed degree programmes are delivered in English, but some courses, clinical placements or professional requirements may involve additional communication expectations. Non-native English speakers must meet the Graduate School, school or admissions office language rules.

Can international students apply directly after school?

International first-year applicants can apply to UW undergraduate study, but many majors are capacity-constrained and admission to the university does not guarantee admission to a selected major. Graduate applicants need a recognised bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent and programme-specific prerequisites.

How much does UW cost for international undergraduates?

For 2026â€“27, the Seattle nonresident undergraduate tuition estimate is $44,580 annually before living costs and some programme-specific charges. UWâ€™s Seattle budget estimates $18,858 for nine months of housing and daily living for students living on or off campus; rates can change.

What do graduate students pay?

Graduate tuition varies by campus, tier, school and whether a degree is fee-based. UWâ€™s international budget page lists Tier I nonresident graduate tuition using the published academic-year rate, while individual programmes publish separate totals such as the MS in Information Systems 2026â€“27 nonresident cost.

How do UW applications work?

Undergraduate applicants use the UW admissions application. Most graduate applicants use the UW Graduate School process, but professional programmes such as JD, DDS, PharmD and MD use their own application routes. MPH applicants must use SOPHAS and the UW Graduate School application.

Are English tests required?

Applicants whose native language is not English must meet the relevant English-language policy. Graduate programmes can set higher thresholds; for example, UW Chemistry lists TOEFL iBT 92 with a speaking-score condition. Always check the programme-specific page before submitting scores.

When does study begin at UW?

Most UW degree programmes use the quarter system and begin in autumn, but professional, fee-based and some graduate programmes can have different starts. Deadlines are department-specific; the UW Graduate School says applicants must confirm dates in the programme requirements listing.

Does UW provide scholarships to international undergraduates?

UW states that it does not provide financial aid or scholarships to undergraduate international students, so applicants should plan to cover the full published cost. Graduate funding can include assistantships or fellowships, but availability and eligibility are programme-specific.

UW is institutionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, and it is a member of the Association of American Universities. Some degrees also have specialised accreditation; that status must be checked at programme level.

What should I know about housing?

UW offers residence halls and apartments, but availability and eligibility vary. The published 2026â€“27 Seattle budgets use $18,858 for nine months of undergraduate housing and daily living and $23,199 for graduate or professional rent, utilities and daily living; actual costs differ by housing choice.