Out-of-state families
No matter the distance, supporting your Husky is a top priority. Whether you’re a short drive or several time zones away, UW Parent & Family Programs helps you stay connected and involved in your student’s college journey from afar.
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Get oriented
Start with our Parent & Family Guide: a roundup of resources covering campus tutoring, student housing, mental health support, and more. Then visit Talk With Your Husky for prompts and ideas to help you build a communication plan that works across the distance.
Seattle is a world-class city with a unique mix of urban amenities and outdoor living. We’re glad your student chose to make their college home here, and we’re glad you’re staying close by from wherever you are.
Campus contacts
Four offices worth bookmarking. They’re the destinations behind most of the questions families ask.
Husky Health & Well-Being
Mental, physical, and emotional health support, all on campus.
Visit page
Student Fiscal Services
Tuition billing, payment plans, tax forms, and information release.
Visit page
Academic Support
CLUE drop-in tutoring, writing centers, study skills workshops.
Visit page
Housing & Food Services
Residence halls, dining plans, housing renewal, move-in details.
Visit page
Support for every situation
Adjusting to college life can be challenging. The UW offers a wide range of resources for everything from mental health to academics to money management.
It’s normal for students to feel homesick or overwhelmed from time to time, especially in the first year. You can help your Husky by knowing what resources are available and encouraging them to be proactive about seeking support.
Common out-of-state family questions
Questions specific to families supporting students from across the country. For broader topics, visit our Common Questions page.
When is the best time to call or visit my student?
Every schedule is different, and it’s up to you and your student to decide when and how frequently to have check-ins. For in-person visits, consult the
UW academic calendar so you can avoid busy times like finals week or midterms.
What’s the best way to pay for tuition and fees?
Student Fiscal Services is a one-stop shop for navigating the ins and outs of paying for college. You’ll also find tax forms, due dates and deadlines, and student loan information. Tuition can be paid through your student’s MyUW account. They must submit an
online Information Release Authorization to give family members or others access to tuition billing and reminders.
Is there a way to connect with other UW families in my area?
Join our official first-year families
Facebook group. You can also reach out to PFP at
uwparent@uw.edu and we can connect you with regional and out-of-state family groups.
What are some must-see places to explore in Seattle?
Many of the city’s top destinations are located
on or near the UW campus. Learn more about attractions, lodging, and dining across the city at
Visit Seattle. Interested in outdoor recreation?
UWild is a great way for your student to explore Washington’s renowned wilderness areas and public lands.
What should my student know about safety?
When I visit my student, where should I stay?
There are many hotels within walking distance of the university, and the entirety of the downtown Seattle hotel scene is easily accessible to campus via Light Rail. Private short-term rentals are also available in adjacent neighborhoods.
Learn more about hotel accommodations.
What’s the weather really like in Seattle?
Despite Seattle’s rainy reputation, precipitation is typically light enough that many in the area don’t bother with umbrellas. Seattle is the 24th-rainiest U.S. city with about 38 inches annually. A good rain jacket is a wardrobe staple, especially October through May. Winters are mild with daytime highs in the 40s and 50s. Summers are warm and sunny, usually in the 70s and 80s.
Where can I learn more about the layout of the campus?
The UW is an expansive campus with uncountable beautiful places to explore. Find your way around all corners of the campus with
UW Maps.
What types of scholarships and grants are available for out-of-state students?
What insurance plans are contracted with Husky Health Center and UW Medicine?
What if our insurance does not cover Husky Health Center or UW Medicine?
If your insurance does not contract with Husky Health Center and UW Medicine but does work with other providers in Seattle, you can
review the list. You can also check your insurance company’s website to search for additional contracted providers.
Stay connected from afar
The Parent Insider newsletter is the easiest way to keep up with what’s happening on campus, no matter the time zone. Seasonal essentials, deadlines, and resources to share with your Husky. Questions? uwparent@uw.edu.
Sign up for Parent Insider