At the UW, student parents and caregivers are a vital part of our campus community. However, we know that parenting while pursuing your education can present unique challenges. This page provides resources, support and ways to connect with fellow parents.
Childcare and School
UW Childcare Assistance Program
The UW Childcare Assistance Program helps UW Seattle students cover the costs of licensed childcare for their children (ages birth – 12 years old) while enrolled in an eligible program of study. Visit the UW Childcare Assistance Program page to learn more about the program and the application process.
City of Seattle Child Care Assistance Program
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps families living within Seattle city limits pay for the cost of childcare for children 1 month to 12 years of age. Visit the CCAP website to learn about eligibility and the application process.
Understanding the public school system
Washington State’s public school system serves diverse communities across the state and includes a mix of local and state standards. Seattle Public Schools (SPS) is the largest district in Washington, with unique programs, enrollment policies and school options for families in the city. Visit the Seattle Public Schools website and Education Ombuds website to learn more about the school system’s structure and enrollment process, and what families should know.
Community and Communication
UW parent listserv
Join the UW parent listserv to stay informed about family-friendly resources, events and updates at the University of Washington. After joining, you can browse a collection of prior posts and conversations or post a new message to list members. Open to all UW students, faculty and staff.
Student Parent Caregiver Advocacy Group (SPCA)
SPCA is a student-led group that builds community, shares resources and advocates for the needs of student parents and caregivers. It is an official UW RSO (registered student organization). Sign up to join the mailing list, or email spca.uw@gmail.edu for more information.
UW work-life balance resources
The UW Human Resources department offers work-life balance support and resources, including information on housing, childcare and work-life events. Many are available to UW students. Visit the HR work-life page or read through their “at a glance” overview PDF of programs offered for more information. Services and events available to students are clearly indicated on the PDF.
Academics
Allen Study Room
The Allen Study Room is a welcoming child- and family-friendly study space on campus designed to support student parents and caregivers. It is located in Allen South Library, 3rd Floor, Room 386F (to the right of the elevators). Key code access is required; fill out the form to request access.
Health Care and Health Insurance
Health insurance options for dependents (Apple Health)
Children in Washington state are eligible for a variety of low- or no-cost insurance programs depending on family income. The Washington State Health Care Authority website provides an outline of who is eligible by age and income and a link to apply for coverage.
Graduate Appointee Insurance Program
Graduate students with 50% FTE appointments who are enrolled in 10 credit hours per quarter, registered by the 10th day of the quarter and paid for at least 5 out of 6 pay periods are eligible for the Graduate Appointee Insurance Program (GAIP). Some students who aren’t eligible for full coverage may be able to pay for GAIP coverage. UW HR’s Graduate Appointee health insurance page provides an overview of who is eligible and how to enroll yourself and your dependents.
Lactation rooms
The UW HR website provides a map and instructions for how to access lactation rooms across campus. Be aware that some rooms require prior notice or are only available to students or faculty in the department housed in that building, while others are available to all users. Lactation room amenities vary; some include refrigerators, sinks and/or changing facilities.
Washington’s Paid Family Leave Act
If you need to take family or medical leave at some point during your time at the UW, the Washington State Paid Family & Medical Leave page provides information on who is eligible for leave and how to apply.
Housing
Family Housing Options
The UW has housing available for full-time registered graduate students and their families. The Housing & Food Services website has information on applying for on-campus housing for students with children. It includes descriptions of the different communities and apartment complexes and links to more information such as applications, rates and meal plans.
Home Loans
The UW partners with Homestreet to offer loan discounts based on the price of your home and use of real estate agents. Visit the Homestreet website to learn more.
Questions?
If you have any questions about these resources or SPCA, please contact spca.uw@gmail.edu.