Explore Washington Colleges
Colleges in Washington
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
Total Colleges
38
Public
23
Private
Washington at a Glance
Avg Acceptance Rate
2870%
Average acceptance rate for Washington colleges
Avg Net Price
$17,399.707
After financial aid
Avg In-State Tuition
$15,121.262
For public universities
Washington Colleges Directory
Browse 61 colleges in Washington, sorted by ranking and selectivity.
Seattle, WA•Public
39%
Acceptance Rate$29,594/yr
1330-1510
85%
"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."
Seattle, WA•Private
77%
Acceptance Rate$66,030/yr
1200-1430
77%
"Jesuit school in Seattle's vibrant Capitol Hill, fusing urban energy with service-driven education."
Walla Walla, WA•Private
38%
Acceptance Rate$73,280/yr
1310-1480
89%
"Tucked in Washington's wine-soaked Walla Walla Valley, Whitman College delivers intimate liberal arts rigor amid endless hikes and vineyard sunsets."
Pullman, WA•Public
87%
Acceptance Rate$24,330/yr
1050-1280
66%
"Palouse hills land-grant where wheat research, vet medicine, and Cougar football fuel a practical, spirited campus."
Spokane, WA•Private
82%
Acceptance Rate$65,380/yr
1190-1380
86%
"At Gonzaga, Jesuit ideals fuel a tight-knit community obsessed with hoops and service in Spokane's rugged playground."
Tacoma, WA•Private
72%
Acceptance Rate$73,710/yr
1170-1380
75%
"Tacoma's wooded liberal arts college where professors lead small seminars overlooking the Puget Sound."
Spokane, WA•Private
90%
Acceptance Rate$62,000/yr
1090-1330
72%
"Whitworth University is located in Spokane, WA."
Seattle, WA•Private
83%
Acceptance Rate$52,995/yr
1050-1320
68%
"Faith-infused liberal arts university nestled in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood, overlooking Puget Sound."
Tacoma, WA•Private
78%
Acceptance Rate$62,857/yr
1040-1260
70%
"Pacific Lutheran University is located in Tacoma, WA."
College Place, WA•Private
96%
Acceptance Rate$41,505/yr
970-1220
67%
"Walla Walla University is located in College Place, WA."
Lynnwood, WA•Public
100%
Acceptance Rate$3,952/yr
N/A
35%
"Edmonds College is located in Lynnwood, WA."
Seattle, WA•Private
100%
Acceptance Rate$30,868/yr
N/A
50%
"City University of Seattle is located in Seattle, WA."
Showing top 50 of 61 colleges in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Colleges
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 29%. 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.