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Colleges and Universities in Washington
Washington — the Evergreen State — is home to 81 accredited colleges and universities, including 28 public institutions and 53 private schools. The state flagship, University of Washington, anchors a higher education landscape that ranges from large research universities in Seattle to small liberal arts colleges across the state.
Use the college finder above to search every accredited institution in Washington. Filter by tuition cost, institution type, acceptance rate, and more to build your 2026 college list.
Higher education in Washington at a glance
- Total accredited colleges: 81
- Public universities: 28
- Private colleges: 53
- Flagship institution: University of Washington
- Largest higher-ed city: Seattle
Types of colleges in Washington
Public universities in Washington are state-funded institutions that offer significantly reduced in-state tuition to Washington residents. These schools are typically larger, with broad program offerings across undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.
Private colleges in Washington include both nonprofit institutions — which reinvest tuition revenue into academics and financial aid — and for-profit schools focused on career and technical programs. Private nonprofit colleges in Washington often have smaller class sizes and more generous need-based aid packages than their published tuition suggests.
Frequently asked questions — colleges in Washington
How many colleges are in Washington?
There are 81 accredited colleges and universities in Washington in the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard database, including 28 public and 53 private institutions.
What is the cheapest college in Washington?
Community colleges in Washington typically offer the lowest tuition — often under $5,000 per year for in-state students. Use the college finder above to find the most affordable options.
What is the largest university in Washington?
University of Washington is among the largest and most well-known universities in Washington. Search for it by name in the college finder above to view its full data profile.