The flagship Seattle location of the University of Washington has emerged as one of the world's leading research universities, with nearly 40,000 undergrads on that campus alone.
Because of its proximity to Boeing's manufacturing facilities, the school has particular expertise in aeronautics and counts five astronauts among its alums. Science, technology, engineering and math programs are popular at UW; nearly half of all students major in STEM.
UW has encouraging admissions odds for such a top-rated school: Some 53% of applicants get in and there’s priority acceptance for in-state students. Another boon? Eighty-four percent of first-year students graduate within six years.
UW is known for its Husky Promise, which covers tuition and fees for certain residents. Overall, more than half of undergrads receive some grant or scholarship aid.
The Huskies' athletics are big — the student section is often packed to the brim for home football games at Husky Stadium, which overlooks Lake Washington. The proximity to the lake also makes for a perfect training spot for the men's crew team, which has won 21 national titles over the 100-year history of the program. In addition to the hundreds of campus clubs and a large Greek Row, students can enjoy a wide variety of activities in the Seattle area and can reach beloved hiking trails or skiing destinations in the Cascades in as little as 40 minutes by car.
