A straight answer: 39.1% acceptance rate.
This means for every 100 applicants, only 39 actually get in. No guessing. University of Washington is a UNIV institution located in Seattle, WA — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.
Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)
Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:
Men
Women
If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.
Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters
This is where the reality hits:
Yield Rate: N/A
This shows how many admitted students choose University of Washington. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.
What Scores Do You Need?
If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.
What Students Miss When Looking at the University of Washington Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at University of Washington is one of the most searched admissions metrics, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many students treat it as a pass-or-fail indicator, when it’s really just a summary of past outcomes.
An acceptance rate of 39.1% blends together thousands of decisions made across different programs and applicant profiles. That makes it informative at a high level, but unreliable for predicting individual chances.
Acceptance Rates Reflect Applicant Behavior
Acceptance rates rise or fall largely based on who applies. When a university attracts more applicants who are still exploring options, acceptance rates tend to increase—even if academic standards stay consistent.
At University of Washington, demand varies across departments, meaning selectivity isn’t evenly distributed. This is why some applicants experience a more competitive process than others.
How to Read Acceptance Rates More Accurately
Instead of focusing on whether the acceptance rate is “high” or “low,” applicants should ask how it applies to them. Academic background, intended major, and preparation level all shape admissions outcomes.
Viewed this way, the acceptance rate at University of Washington becomes a planning reference—not a judgment.
Admissions Insight
Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?
Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.
Your Chances of Getting Into University of Washington
Let’s keep it real:
- ✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
- 🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
- ❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles
If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.
What's my real shot?
Acceptance Odds Estimator
Estimate your admission probability at University of Washington based on your unique profile.
Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.
Try Right Fit MatcherShould University of Washington Be on Your College List?
By now, most students aren’t just researching out of curiosity — they’re trying to decide whether University of Washington belongs on their final application list. That decision rarely comes down to a single metric.
Admissions competitiveness varies depending on who you are as an applicant. Some students find that their academic record aligns well with what the university typically looks for, while others may face more competition based on program choice or preparation.
Making a Balanced Application Decision
Strong applicants think in terms of balance. They include schools where they feel confident, schools that push them slightly, and schools that represent ambition. Admissions data helps place University of Washington into one of those categories, but it doesn’t make the decision on its own.
What matters most is alignment — between your interests, academic background, and the opportunities the university offers. When that alignment exists, applying becomes a logical step rather than a risky gamble.
Should You Apply to University of Washington?
If 39.1% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.
- Will I be a standout here?
- Do I like the vibe?
- Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
- Is this my best-fit major here?
Explore University of Washington
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs About University of Washington Acceptance Rate
Do I need to submit SAT or ACT scores to apply to University of Washington?
No, SAT and ACT scores are optional for admission. The university employs a holistic review process, meaning your application will be evaluated without these scores.
What is the GPA requirement for University of Washington admission?
There are no official GPA requirements for admission. Instead, the university reviews applications holistically, focusing on a variety of elements beyond GPA.
How does University of Washington review applications if test scores are optional?
Applications are evaluated based on multiple components, such as high school GPA, college prep courses, essays, and letters of recommendation, not relying solely on test scores.
Will submitting low test scores hurt my application to University of Washington?
Low test scores typically won't hurt your application because admissions decisions are made holistically, focusing on overall strength rather than just test scores.
Are there any exceptions to the test-optional policy at University of Washington?
Yes, home-schooled applicants without college coursework must submit SAT or ACT scores. International students may also need to demonstrate English proficiency.
Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual
University of Washington isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.
Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.
Unlock Your Best Shot with Orbit
Everything you need to maximize your college application success