Best University in Washington State for International Students
Explore University of Washington, the top-ranked university in Washington State in our QS 2026 list — ranking, tuition fees, intakes, English requirements and scholarships, with free admission and F-1 visa guidance from GIEC Global.
Approx. $35,000 – $50,000 per year (non-resident / international undergraduate tuition; varies by program)
Intakes
Fall (August) — main intake; Spring (January) for selected programs
English
TOEFL iBT around 80–100 or IELTS Academic 6.5–7.0 (requirements vary by program)
University of Washington in Seattle, Washington State. The University of Washington in Seattle is a major public research university close to the headquarters of technology companies such as Microsoft and Amazon.
Computer Science
Engineering
Medicine (MD)
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Washington State is home to 1 of the top 50 US universities in the QS World University Rankings 2026: University of Washington. Students get access to world-class teaching, research labs, internships and employers across the state.
Top universities in Washington State for international students
University of Washington — QS 2026 #81, Seattle
Compare universities in Washington State
The table compares ranking, international tuition, intakes and English requirements. Figures are approximate — always confirm them on the official university website.
Approx. $35,000 – $50,000 per year (non-resident / international undergraduate tuition; varies by program)
Fall (August) — main intake; Spring (January) for selected programs
TOEFL iBT around 80–100 or IELTS Academic 6.5–7.0 (requirements vary by program)
Admission requirements to study in Washington State
Undergraduate: Class 12 / high-school transcripts, essays, recommendations and English test scores, usually through the Common App, the UC Application (University of California) or the university’s own portal. SAT/ACT policies vary by university.
Master’s and PhD: a relevant bachelor’s degree, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV and English scores; some programs ask for the GRE or GMAT.
English: TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic and, at many universities, the Duolingo English Test.
Cost of studying in Washington State
Annual tuition for international undergraduates in our list ranges from roughly $28,000 at some public universities to $70,000 at leading private universities. Add housing, food, health insurance and travel. To receive the Form I-20 you must show funds covering the estimated cost of your first year.
Intakes and deadlines
Fall (August/September) is the main intake. Some graduate programs also admit students in Spring (January). Undergraduate early deadlines are usually in November and regular deadlines in early January; graduate deadlines are mostly between December and February.
F-1 student visa and work after graduation
After you accept an offer and show proof of funds, the university issues a Form I-20. You then pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and apply for an F-1 student visa at a US embassy or consulate.
F-1 students can usually work on campus up to 20 hours a week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks. After graduation, Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of work, and graduates of eligible STEM degrees can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. Immigration rules can change, so always check the latest official guidance.
How GIEC Global helps you study in Washington State
GIEC Global counsellors help you shortlist universities in Washington State, prepare essays and SOPs, apply for scholarships and complete your F-1 visa application — free of cost.
FAQs: Studying at Universities in Washington State
01Which are the top universities in Washington State for international students?
University of Washington (QS #81).
02What is the cost of studying in Washington State?
Undergraduate tuition for international students ranges from roughly $28,000 to $70,000 a year depending on the university, plus living costs. Graduate and professional programs have their own fees.
03What are the intakes for universities in Washington State?
Fall (August/September) is the main intake; some graduate programs also offer a Spring (January) intake.
04Which English test do I need to study in Washington State?
Most universities accept TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic, and many also accept the Duolingo English Test. Top universities typically expect TOEFL around 100 or IELTS 7.0+.
05Can international students work while studying in Washington State?
Yes. F-1 students can usually work on campus up to 20 hours a week during term and full-time during breaks, and can apply for OPT after graduation.
06How can GIEC Global help me study in Washington State?
GIEC Global offers free counselling, shortlisting, SOP and essay help, application support and F-1 visa guidance.
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