The University of Washington hosts an international student body of 35,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The University of Washington School of Medicine and biomedical research environment is rated among the top 10 in the country. The University of Washington occupies a large campus with fountains, gardens, and magnificent views of mountains and lakes. The city of Seattle is situated between Puget Sound and Lake Washington and is one of the major metropolitan areas in the Pacific Northwest.
Outdoor activities abound in the nearby wilderness areas.
Seven major ski areas are within easy driving distance. Sailing, kayaking, sailboarding and other water sports are popular in this region. Seattle offers a full array of cultural activities including ballet, symphony, opera, theater, and major league sports. Housing The University of Washington is about four miles from the city center, in a pleasant suburban neighborhood. Though most residents in the program choose to live within a few miles of the University, substantial cost savings in home purchase or rental can be had by living in the suburbs.