University of Washington Financial Aid

The University of Washington is a pretty awesome school: located in Seattle, it's home to 31,000 undergrads, and is considered a Public Ivy. They take their research seriously at Washington: the university consistently ranks in the top 5 of all universities in the nation for largest research budget, which is greater than $1b per year. Its undergrad schools are top-notch, and some of its graduate programs are at the pinnacle of their disciplines; for example, the UW school of medicine ranks #1 in the nation for primary care, and the UW nursing school ranks #1 as well. Of course, for you undergrads, things are awesome as well, academically and athletically. The Huskies play in the Pac-12, and have success under their belt in many programs, not the least of which are football and men's basketball.

Budgeting while on UW financial aid couldn't be more important: saving money is key, but saving money while you're being given and/or borrowing money is essential. Spending more than you can afford can result in extra borrowing, which is the worst thing imaginable for a college student. Spending should be kept to a minimum, but you can afford to make room in your budget for football student season tickets ($125) and basketball tickets, too. Let's not forget trips to Memo's or Wing Zone: those are okay every once and a while, but don't make a habit. Just be smart with your cash!

Applying for University of Washington Financial Aid

Students and families who wish to receive University of Washington financial aid are in luck: the only form you have to fill out is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In-state students may have to jump through a few hoops to prove their in-state status in order to receive state tuition subsidies, but it shouldn't be that bad. All students should have a chat with their University of Washington financial aid officer about what your aid package might look like and how to improve it, from possible 'free money' awards (scholarships & grants) to potential borrowing. Other than those things, you should be good: submit your forms, and you'll receive your University of Washington financial aid package with your first bill.

University of Washington Financial Aid Packages

Most colleges and universities construct financial aid packages in the same basic way with the same components, which are federal student loans, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships. These ingredients are what you're likely to find in an UW aid package, and for almost everyone who receives UW financial aid, it's a satisfactory amount of aid. However, there's a small, small minority of UW students who get caught in the lurch of the financial aid system, and just don't get all the money they need. For these students, private student loans are a common resource for coming up with all the necessary funding to attend UW. If you're one of these students, check out our student loan comparison tool, right on this page: it will help you compare a variety of loans, and to find and apply for the best student loan for you.