DEEPCOLLEGES · OPS · v3.3 SCHOOLS·INDEXED 120 SOURCES IPEDS · CDS · SCORECARD LAST·SYNC 2026.04.29

Best Colleges in Washington: Ranked by Value & Outcomes

Ranked by graduate outcomes and value — not prestige.

Top Colleges in Washington

#1
University of Washington
Seattle, WA · Public
42.5%
accept
$78,466
Salary (10yr)

FAQs about colleges in Washington

How many colleges are in Washington ranked on this page?
This guide ranks 1 colleges in Washington by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.
What is the hardest college to get into in Washington?
University of Washington-Seattle Campus has the lowest acceptance rate among Washington colleges on this list at 42.5%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.
Which Washington college has the highest graduate salary?
University of Washington-Seattle Campus graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Washington colleges on this list, at $78,466. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.
Should I stay in Washington for college?
In-state public colleges in Washington typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Washington charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.
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Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.