University of Washington: How does it rank?

I'm looking at applying to the University of Washington and wondering how it compares to other schools academically and in terms of overall reputation. What should I know before applying?

The University of Washington (UW) is considered to be one of the top public universities in the United States. This reputation is largely due to its strengths in various domains, which include, but are not limited to, highly ranked programs in Computer Science, Medicine, Business, and Engineering.

The university has a notably strong emphasis on research, which is one of its distinguishing characteristics. It is among the nation's top universities in terms of research expenditure, which translates into plentiful opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in groundbreaking research across various disciplines.

UW's main campus, located in Seattle, provides a unique blend of an urban and campus environment. The weather can be rainy and gloomy during parts of the year, but students seem to enjoy the abundant natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, which surrounds the campus. And being in a major city, access to internships, job opportunities, and cultural activities is an advantage.

Moreover, starting in the 2024-2025 academic year, the school became a member of the Big 12, so if college athletics are of interest to you, UW has a competitive program with strong fan support.

As far as applying goes, it's important to know that the University of Washington practices holistic review. This means they evaluate more than just grades and test scores when considering applicants. They assess the rigor of coursework, essays, extracurricular activities, and various other factors, looking for potential contributions to their diverse and dynamic community.

Ultimately, the best way to figure out if it's the right fit for you is to consider your academic and career goals, your lifestyle preferences, and visit the campus or conduct thorough research if a visit is not possible.