24 Best Universities In Washington For International Students 2026

Washington is surely one of the places you should be considering if you’re looking to study in United States. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences. With more than 24 universities and colleges in Washington, you’ll surely have a wide range of choices.

Out of 24 universities in Washington, University of Washington and Washington State University are the top-performing schools in Washington. This list covers both public and private institutions in Washington.

To help you narrow down your school options, we’ve compiled the best universities in Washington. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Washington.

How do I get admission to the best universities in Washington?

Applying to the universities in Washington involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Washington to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Washington?

Tuition fees at Washington’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 11,200 USD to 66,100 USD , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 7,140 USD to 66,000 USD. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Washington!

As we cover the best universities in Washington for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in Washington for International Students

Adding to the colorful history of the West Coast is the University of Washington. One of the oldest and most prominent universities in the area, the University of Washington caters to students across its three campuses: Seattle (main campus), Bothell, and Tacoma. On top of its reputation for innovative research, it also boasts a strong connection with the tech industry, frequently collaborating with brands and housing tech startups.

Celebrating its 132nd year, Washington State University (WSU) has established its high reputation in research and education. They have produced thousands of studies about agriculture, technology, and more. WSU belongs to the best research institutions in the USA, and as they move forward, they continue to educate more than 19,000 students at different levels.

Located in a city of innovation and global values, Seattle University is an institution for lifelong learning and competency. It offers over 60 undergraduate programs, 28 graduate programs and several professional certificates in the fields of business, education, medicine, and science and technology. Seattle University graduates are highly sought after by companies and recruitment firms, landing jobs immediately after graduation.

Western Washington University is fully committed to providing high standards of teaching and research to its local community. Throughout the years, the university has transformed numerous lives of its students by aiding them to succeed in their respective careers. The university continues to thrive to become one of the world’s leading universities. It has in, so far, succeeded in improving its quality of education and has since continued to develop innovative academic programs.

Gonzaga University is a private Jesuit Catholic institution founded in 1887. The university is fully concentrated on offering interdisciplinary programs in liberal arts. Such programs include business, education, engineering, leadership studies, and law. Moreover, the institution is aware that pursuing higher education can be pretty costly, and to reduce the burden on students, it offers numerous financial scholarships and grants to eligible individuals.

Central Washington University commits to delivering hands-on supervision in order to assess its students carefully. It promotes practical learning, which is why it allows students to perform in an actual professional setting. Employers praise graduates from the university due to their intelligence and competency.

The University of Puget Sound, located within the homelands of the Puyallup Tribe, is committed to uplifting the story and history of the indigenous people. Initially founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church, the university was set to surpass institutions of higher learning in the Country. Since its inception, the University of Puget Sound is continuously producing graduates that are competent and ready for life after college.

Eastern Washington University is a public educational institution that offers over 100 study programs in different fields such as engineering, health sciences, mathematics, art, and humanities. EWU was established in 1882 and has been playing an important role in the region’s cultural, economic, and social development. Its location in Cheney, Washington makes it ideal for several recreational activities like hiking, rafting, and other outdoor sports. 

Whitman College is a privately owned institution that offers undergraduate studies concentrating in liberal arts. The university’s student body is comprised of high achievers. It wholly supports its students in becoming competent and skilled individuals by providing only world-class education, necessary training, and internships. In addition, it is fully committed to transforming the lives of its students.

Evergreen State College, a liberal arts and sciences college, offers several undergraduate and three master’s programs. The college has fields of study instead of majors for the undergraduate courses. As for graduate students, the available master’s programs are environment studies, public administration, and teaching. With regards to rankings, Evergreen State was ranked 50th among west regional universities by US News.

Northwest University is a private institution that focuses on preparing students for adapting to today’s globalized work industries. It offers about 70 bachelor’s degree programs and 8 master’s degree programs in its 6 colleges. Some popular programs include nursing, education, and Christian-related degrees. In fact, education here goes beyond the classroom, and as a Christian university, the faculty works on strengthening the relationship of students with their faith. This is done through chapel service, gatherings for worshipping, community prayers, religious groups, and global missions.

National Defense University is a graduate-level military institution that provides advanced education for military personnel and naval forces. The university served as a consolidation of the intellectual resources and joint higher education of the national defense community following the joining of the following colleges: Armed Forces Staff College, the National War College, and the Army Industrial College. From its inception, the university grew to include other defense colleges, with the College of International Security Affairs as its newest addition in 2002.

Seattle Pacific University is a Christian university. It offers many degree programs in different fields, such as business, economics, and science, among others. Among its remarkable training facilities, the university also has science buildings and a four-story library where students can learn and interact with one another.

Pacific Lutheran University was founded by Norwegian Lutheran immigrants and is sponsored by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The university was founded when the Norwegian immigrants decided to establish an institution that would produce graduates that would serve their church and community. Although founded as a university, the institution served as an academy, then as a college, until 1960, when it reclaimed the name Pacific Lutheran University.

Founded in 1966, Bellevue College is a public institution that provides bachelor’s and certificate programs in various fields of study. Some of its popular study programs include business administration, nursing, computer science, and interior design. This state-assisted institution welcomes international students on its campus. Students enrolled at the college come from different states and over 57 countries.

Seattle Central College is one of the three colleges that is part of Seattle Colleges. Located in Washington, this public institution primarily focuses on providing associate degrees, training programs, transitional studies, high school programs, and bachelor’s degree programs. Most of its programs are career-oriented, and it equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills. Furthermore, the quality of teaching is among the best in Seattle. Professors and educators of the college are highly competent and nationally recognized for their talents and abilities.

Bastyr University is a private university that fully concentrates on providing medical programs at the higher education level. The institution was initially established to offer naturopathic medicine programs, and it has since expanded to offer more innovative medical programs. Today, it continues to improve and grow to become one of the leading national medical universities.

Founded and guided by Christian scholars, Whitworth University aims to provide high-quality learning while building a solid foundation in faith and values. This university offers undergraduate and graduate programs to local and international students. As they continue to deliver a well-rounded education, they receive several awards and recognitions in the educational field.

The City University of Seattle is a private, non-profit university that is recognized as one of the top adult educators in the country. The university offers various degree programs and certificates encompassing health, business, and other fields. Aside from offering degrees in both undergraduate and graduate programs, the university is also in partnership with Canada, China, the Czech Republic, Mexico, Slovakia, and Vietnam.

Walla Walla University is full of dedicated professors that provide intensive supervision to students. The university is known for its rigorous academic curriculum that will truly heighten the students’ educational experience. Over the years, it has begun to widen its doors for international students and continues to uphold Christian principles as its core values.

Saint Martin’s University’s history can be traced back to 1895. Its tradition is deeply rooted in Catholic Benedictine values, and the university has since instilled these values in its students to become responsible and mindful citizens. Also, this private university is among the leading higher institutions in Washington. Most of its graduates have been recognized for their contributions to society.

Founded in 1907, Heritage University is a private institution in Washington that has received numerous national and regional recognitions for its academic excellence. The university provides a broad spectrum of quality programs in environmental sciences, education, and visual arts, to name a few. Additionally, it actively promotes multiculturalism within its campus. Students of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to continue and obtain an education at the university.

Columbia Basin College (CBC) is a community college located in Pasco, Washington. The institute has more than 100 associate degrees, certifications, and bachelor’s degree programs in various fields of study. The undergraduate programs currently offered at the institute focus on applied sciences and nursing. CBC values each student’s success, and the college thrives on providing a unique learning experience by giving them countless opportunities to hone their skills and talents to become competent professionals.

Centralia College is a public institution that focuses on providing education in the most sought-after areas of the job market, like IT or healthcare. It offers a wide variety of professional diplomas and associate’s degrees, along with 6 bachelor’s degrees. Since it focuses on in-demand professions, the college combines classes with real-life experience. It offers training and internships through a number of partnerships that were made with different businesses and organizations. Its faculty tries to ensure the success of students while serving the local communities and adapting to their work needs.