Paying

The UW is consistently ranked as a great value in higher education. The 2023 “Fiske Guide to Colleges” ranked the UW as one of the nation’s top 10 “best buy” public colleges and universities.

The student budget is the amount of money we estimate you will need for tuition, books and living expenses for the 9-month academic year (October–June). This figure is usually updated in late spring.

What is tuition?

Tuition is the cost of attending the UW. Tuition usually covers the charges for course registration. Some courses, however, have extra expenses (such as lab fees); in such cases, the UW may charge additional fees to cover these added expenses. All costs are subject to change.

When is tuition due?

Tuition is due quarterly, by Friday of the third week of each quarter.

How do I pay?

Wait for an official tuition bill. You’ll receive an email to your UW email account reminding you to check your tuition statement on MyUW.

At any time, you may find your current balance and check the status of your financial aid award using MyUW Personal Services.

Who can see my account?

You may authorize online access to your statement for one or two additional people (for example, parents or guardians). To authorize, go to your MyUW tuition statement and use the Information Release Authorization link. If you do not authorize access, only you can see your account.

The UW can help make your education affordable by providing financial assistance — from grants and loans to scholarships and work-study opportunities. Visit the financial aid website to learn more.

International students in the U.S. with an F-1 visa or any other type of non-immigrant visa are not eligible for financial aid.

Filing the FAFSA/WASFA

To be considered for all types of financial aid, U.S. students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For undocumented students living in Washington, please use the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA).

Award process

You’ll receive an email to your UW email account if you are eligible for aid. It will refer you to your MyUW portal where you can review the details of your award (the types and amount of financial aid for which you qualify).

If you receive a “Notice of Preliminary Award” (an estimate of your eligibility for aid) you may accept this initial award; however, we’ll complete the review of information you provided on your FAFSA before your award can be confirmed. If you receive a “Notice of Award,” then your application has been reviewed and your eligibility confirmed. You must accept your award online in your MyUW portal by the date indicated to reserve your aid. For more information visit the Student Financial Aid website.

The Office of Merit Scholarships, Fellowships & Awards (OMSFA) helps UW undergraduates develop the skills and personal insights necessary to pursue scholarships appropriate to their goals. OMSFA:

• Provides information and resources on finding and applying for scholarships via workshops, events, online resources and individual advising.
• Mentors students through an intense process by offering resources, advising and individual feedback, helping them submit competitive applications for local and national scholarships.
• Collaborates with faculty and staff to identify and support potential student scholars.

Your classification as a resident of Washington state, non-resident of Washington state, or international student determines the tuition you pay as a UW student.

Note your residency status on your offer letter. If you have questions about residency classification or want to apply for a change in your status, please review the Registrar’s website on residency.