Explore Washington Colleges
Explore 61 colleges and universities in Washington, including 38 public institutions and 23 private schools. Compare tuition costs, acceptance rates, and find your perfect fit.
61
Colleges
38
Public
23
Private
Avg Acceptance Rate
Average acceptance rate for Washington colleges
Avg Net Price
After financial aid
Avg In-State Tuition
For public universities
Browse 61 colleges in Washington, sorted by ranking and selectivity.
#12 in Chemistry
Seattle, WA
Acceptance
39%
Total Cost
$29,594
SAT
1330–1510
Nestle into Seattle's tech-fueled, rain-soaked embrace at this massive public powerhouse where you'll code breakthroughs amid evergreen forests and coffee-fueled all-nighters.
#32 in Nursing
Seattle, WA
Acceptance
77%
Total Cost
$66,030
SAT
1200–1430
Jesuit school in Seattle's vibrant Capitol Hill, fusing urban energy with service-driven education.
#38 in Liberal Arts
Walla Walla, WA
Acceptance
38%
Total Cost
$73,280
SAT
1310–1480
Tucked in Washington's wine-soaked Walla Walla Valley, Whitman College delivers intimate liberal arts rigor amid endless hikes and vineyard sunsets.
#41 in Psychology
Pullman, WA
Acceptance
87%
Total Cost
$24,330
SAT
1050–1280
Palouse hills land-grant where wheat research, vet medicine, and Cougar football fuel a practical, spirited campus.
#66 in Biology
Spokane, WA
Acceptance
82%
Total Cost
$65,380
SAT
1190–1380
At Gonzaga, Jesuit ideals fuel a tight-knit community obsessed with hoops and service in Spokane's rugged playground.
#83 in Liberal Arts
Tacoma, WA
Acceptance
72%
Total Cost
$73,710
SAT
1170–1380
Tacoma's wooded liberal arts college where professors lead small seminars overlooking the Puget Sound.
#86 in Public Universities
Bothell, WA
Acceptance
91%
Total Cost
$28,727
SAT
1170–1470
University of Washington-Bothell Campus is located in Bothell, WA.
#97 in Public Universities
Tacoma, WA
Acceptance
83%
Total Cost
$11,189
SAT
1060–1290
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus is located in Tacoma, WA.
#104 in Public Universities
Bellingham, WA
Acceptance
93%
Total Cost
$23,389
SAT
1150–1390
Western Washington University is located in Bellingham, WA.
Olympia, WA
Acceptance
96%
Total Cost
$22,185
SAT
1035–1253
The Evergreen State College is located in Olympia, WA.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus is the highest-ranked university in Washington, ranked #61 nationally. The state is home to several prestigious institutions offering world-class education across various fields.
The average tuition at Washington colleges varies by institution type. For public universities, the average in-state tuition is $15,121 per year. Out-of-state students pay an average of $19,067. After financial aid, the average net price is $17,400.
The average acceptance rate for colleges in Washington is 91%. However, acceptance rates vary significantly by institution, with some highly selective universities accepting less than 10% of applicants while others maintain open enrollment policies.
To qualify for in-state tuition at Washington public universities, you typically need to establish residency for at least 12 months before enrolling. Requirements usually include living in the state, having a Washington driver's license, registering to vote in the state, and demonstrating intent to remain. Specific requirements vary by institution, so check with your chosen school's admissions office.
Washington is located in the West region of the United States. The West is home to world-renowned research universities, innovative tech hubs, and stunning natural settings from coastal California to the Rocky Mountains.
Washington offers a range of affordable college options. The average net price after financial aid is $17,400. Public universities in Washington provide particularly strong value for in-state residents, with lower tuition rates and access to state financial aid programs.
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