Chances of Getting Into University of Washington
Seattle, Washington • Public University • #40 National • Founded 1861
UW Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
UW SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About University of Washington
The University of Washington is a premier public research university in Seattle, widely regarded as one of the best universities in the world. With a 43% acceptance rate, UW is a powerhouse in computer science, medicine, and engineering, with deep ties to Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and the Pacific Northwest tech ecosystem.
Top Programs
What Makes UW Unique
- Located in Seattle — direct access to Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and the tech industry
- Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering is top-5 nationally
- UW Medicine is a leading academic medical center
- Stunning campus on the shores of Lake Washington with views of Mount Rainier
- Over $1.6 billion in annual research funding — among the highest globally
UW Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
UW Application Deadlines
How to Get Into UW: Admission Tips
Apply by November 15 — UW has an early deadline compared to most schools
Direct admission to CS and Engineering is extremely competitive — lower acceptance rate
UW values applicants who show personal growth and resilience in essays
Washington state residents have a significant advantage
Personal statement is critical — use it to tell your unique story
The Brutal Truth About UW Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 43% acceptance rate, UW rejected over 33,060 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At UW, having a 3.85 GPA and 1420 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. UW doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if UW genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 43%-acceptance-rate basket.
UW Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at University of Washington?
University of Washington has an acceptance rate of 43% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 58,000+ applicants, approximately 7,500 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into UW?
The average GPA of admitted students at University of Washington is 3.85. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.70, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for UW?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted UW students is 1330–1510. The average SAT score is 1420. For ACT, the range is 29–34 with an average of 32.
Is UW hard to get into?
Yes, University of Washington is selective with an acceptance rate of just 43%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does UW cost?
Tuition at University of Washington is $12,643 (in-state) / $41,997 (out-of-state) per year, with total cost of attendance at $30,231 (in-state) / $59,585 (out-of-state). However, 52% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $18,000+.
What are my chances of getting into UW?
Your chances of getting into University of Washington depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 43% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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