Public
Accredited · Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tacoma, Washington
83% Acceptance Rate
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
83%Acceptance Rate
3.41Avg GPA
1070Avg SAT
$24,528Annual Cost
$78,466Grad Salary
40.2%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
83%
Avg GPA
3.41
Avg SAT
1070
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SAT Middle 50%
1030–1100
Avg Net Price
$10,017
Need-Based Aid
40.2% receive Pell
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus The University of Washington-Tacoma, founded in 1990, is an urban-serving campus offering undergraduate and graduate programs in downtown Tacoma. The 46-acre campus features historic renovated warehouses and modern facilities including the Milgard Hall for business and the Joy Building for sciences. UW Tacoma maintains a 17:1 student-faculty ratio with programs particularly strong in urban studies, nursing, and computer science. The campus is known for its commitment to serving military-connected students and adult learners.
UW Tacoma takes pride in its role in Tacoma's urban revitalization and its partnerships with local industries. Students benefit from internship opportunities throughout the Puget Sound region. Campus life includes student organizations focused on community engagement. Recent additions include the new Science Building and expanded health sciences programs. UW Tacoma's combination of academic quality, urban location, and commitment to access makes it a vital educational resource for South Puget Sound.
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus Acceptance Rate
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus (UWT) maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 83%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.
Admissions Guidelines
- Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
- Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.
Selectivity at a Glance
Inclusive
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 83% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.41 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.21 – 3.40
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.96
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
UWT GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at UWT is 3.41. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A's and B's is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.61-3.81 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.11 and 3.41, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score.
UWT GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at UWT utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.41, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.41 – 4.00
Target/Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.21 – 3.40
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.01 – 3.20
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.00
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At UWT, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at UWT
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Washington-Tacoma Campus's verified institutional data
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Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus (UWT) Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Can I Get Into UWT Without SAT or ACT?
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus Average SAT Score: 1070
The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus is 1070 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1070 — Accessible
This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1070 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1100 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Washington-Tacoma Campus allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1030, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at UWT. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | - | - | - |
| SAT Reading | - | - | - |
| SAT Composite | 1070 | 1030 | 1100 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1030 then you are below most of the admitted students at UWT and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1100 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1050
Can I get into University of Washington-Tacoma Campus (UWT) with a 1100 SAT?
With a 1100 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus (UWT) are good but the admission staff at UWT tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for UWT
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
UWT is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.
Consistency over Perfection
Prove you can handle a college curriculum by maintaining a steady or upward GPA trend. One or two lower grades won't be a dealbreaker if you've improved since.
Placement Validation
Use the SAT or ACT to exempt yourself from non-credit remedial courses. A solid score here saves you time and tuition money once you enroll.
Practical Leadership
Highlight work experience, family responsibilities, or community service. These schools value 'grit' and real-world maturity.
FAFSA & Deadlines
At schools with higher acceptance rates, the 'win' is financial. Submit your FAFSA and local scholarship apps as early as possible to maximize your aid package.
Next Step: Review the specific 'Pre-Professional' tracks at UWT to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.
UWT Profile
Full Name
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus (UWT)
City
Tacoma
State
Washington
ZIP Code
98402-3100
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Is a UWT Degree Worth It?
Getting into UWT can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. UWT offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at UWT is $69,800 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.62%.
How much does a degree from UWT Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus is $24,528. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus is $10,017.
40.2% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 29.7 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to UWT and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At University of Washington-Tacoma Campus, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist UWT as your choice in the form.
How much does a UWT Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $78,466. An average UWT graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of Washington-Tacoma Campus. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville, AL | 1055 | 21 |
| Marion Military Institute | Marion, AL | 1043 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | Little Rock, AR | 1049 | 21 |
| Arkansas Tech University | Russellville, AR | 1050 | 21 |
| Central Baptist College | Conway, AR | 1022 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton | Morrilton, AR | 1020 | 20 |
| Southern Arkansas University Main Campus | Magnolia, AR | 1050 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas-Fort Smith | Fort Smith, AR | 1050 | 21 |
| Western Connecticut State University | Danbury, CT | 1044 | 24 |
| Baptist University of Florida | Graceville, FL | 1045 | 20 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Washington-Tacoma Campus. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction, CO | 1070 | 23 |
| University of Northern Colorado | Greeley, CO | 1077 | 22 |
| Florida College | Temple Terrace, FL | 1068 | 19 |
| Piedmont University | Demorest, GA | 1074 | 21 |
| Shorter University | Rome, GA | 1075 | 20 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Washington-Tacoma Campus. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huntingdon College | Montgomery, AL | 1148 | 23 |
| University of South Alabama | Mobile, AL | 1119 | 23 |
| Tuskegee University | Tuskegee, AL | 1121 | 22 |
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro, AR | 1119 | 22 |
| University of Central Arkansas | Conway, AR | 1117 | 22 |
Degree Programs at UWT
Bachelor Degree Programs
Masters Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Washington-Tacoma Campus →
Frequently Asked Questions About UWT Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $78,466 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $24,528 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
40.2% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.
The acceptance rate of University of Washington-Tacoma Campus is 83% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.41. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.11, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.11, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.01 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.41, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Admission to University of Washington-Tacoma Campus is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1070 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1030–1100.
Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.