PhD Astronomy at University of Washington

Programme overview

The PhD in Astronomy studies how stars, planetary systems and galaxies form and evolve, how the elements arose and how the Universe is structured. Variants include Advanced Data Science, Astronomy and Astrobiology, and Data Science.

Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Astronomy | Intake: Autumn | Location: Seattle, WA, United States

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants need a bachelor's degree in astronomy, physics or a related field and must meet UW Graduate School minimum requirements. The application includes upper-division physics and astronomy coursework, a two-page statement of purpose and a CV/resume. GRE scores are optional. Fall 2027 PhD deadlines: optional Expression of Interest October 19, 2026; invitations to apply November 1, 2026; full application December 1, 2026 (UW Graduate School application).

Domestic applicants: USD 18,045 a year (2026-27). Resident rate. Seattle campus, full-time, Autumn+Winter+Spring quarters, rate band "Graduate Tier I"; the programme is assigned to this tier in the UW 2026-27 Programs in Each Graduate Tier list. Tuition only (operating + building fee); excludes technolog Source

International applicants: USD 32,346 a year (2026-27). Non-Resident rate. Seattle campus, full-time, Autumn+Winter+Spring quarters, rate band "Graduate Tier I"; the programme is assigned to this tier in the UW 2026-27 Programs in Each Graduate Tier list. Tuition only (operating + building fee); excludes techn Source

Graduate programmes open for admission at different times and have varying deadlines; entry quarter and dates are set by each programme.

Graduate application fee is $90 (USD), paid online by MasterCard or Visa; each submitted application requires a separate fee. Application dates and deadlines vary by programme and are shown in the Graduate School online application.

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