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Frequently Asked Questions

Washington MESA FAQ

Teens in green MESA Day t-shirts and badges pose in front of a MESA backdrop

Washington MESA FAQ

The Washington Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program is an educational pathway program administered by the University of Washington and established by the Washington State legislature to provide enrichment and access opportunities to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs.

Washington MESA primarily serves middle school, high school, and undergraduate students across Washington State, with a focus on students who are first-generation college-bound, low-income, and interested in STEM fields.

Washington MESA offers a continuum of programs, including:

  • MESA Middle School Programs
  • MESA High School Programs
  • MESA Community College Programs
  • MESA University Programs

These programs provide academic support, hands-on STEM learning, career exploration, leadership development, and access to competitions and enrichment opportunities.

WA MESA supports students through:

  • Academic enrichment and STEM-focused curriculum
  • Hands-on, project-based learning and competitions
  • College and career readiness activities
  • Mentoring and advising
  • Leadership development
  • Exposure to STEM professionals, industries, and higher education institutions

The Washington MESA State Office is housed at the University of Washington, Seattle, and works in partnership with school districts, community colleges, universities, industry partners, and community organizations across the state.

Washington MESA programs are FREE! There is no cost to students. The goal is to remove barriers and ensure access to high-quality STEM opportunities for students.

Washington MESA is supported through a combination of state funding, institutional support, grants, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic partnerships.

Washington MESA collects and analyzes program data on student participation, academic progress, persistence, and postsecondary outcomes. Evaluation includes biannual reporting and continuous program improvement aligned with state, institutional, and funder requirements. Future efforts will focus on expanding longitudinal tracking to more effectively assess long-term student outcomes, including workforce outcomes.

Organizations and individuals can partner with MESA by: 

  • Providing financial support or sponsorships 
  • Offering mentorship, internships, or career exposure opportunities 
  • Volunteering as judges, speakers, or advisors 
  • Collaborating on STEM education initiatives 

Partnership inquiries can be directed to the Washington MESA State Office by emailing wamesa@uw.edu.

Phone:

(206) 616-0310

Email:

wamesa@uw.edu

Address:

1410 NE Campus Pkwy, Suite 394
Schmitz Hall, Box 355845
Seattle, WA 98195-5845