Seattle, WA · Admissions

University of Washington

Acceptance Rate & How to Get In

University of Washington has a 43% acceptance rate, making it selectiveattainable for solid, well-prepared applicants. Admitted students score around 1240–1450 on the SAT. Here is what the numbers say it takes to get in.

43%
Acceptance rate
1240–1450
SAT (mid 50%)
27–33
ACT (mid 50%)
Test-optional
Testing

How hard is it to get into UW Seattle?

With a 43% acceptance rate, University of Washington is selectiveattainable for solid, well-prepared applicants. It enrolls roughly 35,000 undergraduates (urban setting) in Seattle, WA. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.

What it takes to get in

  • SAT: admitted students land around 1240–1450 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
  • ACT: the middle 50% is about 27–33.
  • GPA: admitted students average around 3.8. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
  • Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
  • Essays: at UW Seattle's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $41,900 out-of-state ($12,600 in-state) per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Computer Science · Engineering · Business (Foster) · Public Health

See UW Seattle’s supplemental essay guide

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UW Seattle admissions FAQ

What is University of Washington's acceptance rate?
University of Washington's acceptance rate is 43%, which makes it selective — attainable for solid, well-prepared applicants.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for UW Seattle?
Admitted students typically score about 1240–1450 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 27–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is UW Seattle test-optional?
University of Washington's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on University of Washington’s official admissions site.