Academic Comparison between Washington State and Western Washington

Washington State University and Western Washington University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Both Schools are four-year, public and located in Washington

Comparison at a Glance

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

  • Both schools are four-year, public schools.
  • Washington State has more expensive tuition & fees ($29,950) than Western Washington ($28,707).
  • It is harder to admit to Washington State than Western Washington.
  • Washington State has more students with 25,685 students while Western Washington has 14,710 students.
  • Washington State has a lower number of students per faculty with 15 to 1 while Western Washington's ratio is 18 to 1.
  • Washington State has more full-time faculties with 1,410 faculties while Western Washington has 686 full-time faculties.
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Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

Washington State Universityvs.Western Washington University
Pullman, WashingtonLocationBellingham, Washington
Four-year, PublicSchool Typefour-year, Public
Doctor's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Research University (very high research activity)Carnegie ClassificationMaster's College and University (larger programs)
In-State$13,391
Out-Of-State$29,950
2025 Tuition & Fees
In-State$9,582
Out-Of-State$28,707
68%% Receiving Financial Aid58%
$12,107Average Amount of Financial Aid$9,066
86.64 %Acceptance Rates93.25 %
19.72 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)22.94 %
-SAT Score1,280
-ACT Score28
60 %Graduation Rate65 %
-Transfer-out Rate-
78 %Retention Rate79 %
25,685Student Population14,710
1,410Number of Faculties686
15 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio18 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycareOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare