Page updated Aug. 31, 2026: Added section on tuition and financial aid lawsuit
Increased federal immigration enforcement actions have raised concerns among members of the UW community. Washington state law prohibits the sharing of information or use of state resources, including University resources, to target Washington residents solely on the basis of race, religion, immigration, citizenship status, or national or ethnic origin, except to otherwise comply with state or federal law. In addition, most student information is protected by federal law (FERPA).
While immigration officials cannot enter a classroom, laboratory, campus residence or private office without an appropriate warrant or judicial order, we are not legally permitted to prevent federal immigration officials from coming into the public spaces of a UW campus or facility. And there might be instances when we will be required to respond to valid warrants or judicial orders.
If immigration officials come to your classroom, laboratory, campus residence or office, you must immediately contact your campus or facility safety office (see below). They’ll work with the Attorney General’s Office so that we can respond appropriately given relevant state and federal laws. Employees should also notify their supervisor. We would also appreciate it if you would contact your safety office if you become aware of immigration officials on a campus or at a UW facility more generally.
- UW protocol for responding to requests from federal law enforcement agencies
- Undocumented student resources
- Student Legal Services
- Immigration preparedness information – Leadership Without Borders
Campus and facility safety contacts
- UW Bothell: 911 or (425) 352-5359
- Seattle campus: 911 or (206) 685-8973
- UW Tacoma: 911 or (253) 692-4416
- UW Medicine clinical facilities: Please contact the Administrator On Call for your specific facility.
Lawsuit challenging in-state tuition rates, financial aid
The University of Washington is proud to welcome students from around the state, nation and world. In 2003, the Washington Legislature set forth eligibility requirements for in-state tuition rates, regardless of immigration status. It has also passed laws authorizing state financial aid, regardless of status.
On Aug. 27, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the State of Washington, the state’s four-year universities and college, the state’s community and technical colleges, and the Washington Student Achievement Council challenging the legality of these laws. The Washington Office of the Attorney General is representing all Washington parties in this case. The department also filed suits against three other states – Arizona, New Mexico and Oregon – that same day. To date, 21 states have had their in-state tuition laws challenged by the department.
At this time, the existing laws and tuition rates are still in effect. Resources available to students regardless of immigration status are detailed on this site.