4 year colleges/university: These types of colleges offer bachelor's degree programs, which typically take four years to complete; in some cases, they also offer graduate and professional program. They can be public or private institutions. Some examples of four year colleges are the University of Washington, Washington State University, and Seattle University, etc. Click here for a list of 4 year colleges in Washington State.

Public universities - A public university or public college is a university or college that is owned by the state or receives significant funding from a government. Public universities are cheaper than private universities. Public universities are also larger in size. Examples of public universities are University of Washington, Washington State University, and Eastern Washington University.
Private universities - A private university or private college a higher education institution that is not owned, operated, or funded by a government. Instead, private universities are funded by tuition, donations, and endowments. Private universities are usually smaller in size, have a higher cost of attendance, and usually require students to live on campus for their first year. Most, but not all, private universities have a religious component attached to them. Examples of private universities are Seattle University, Puget Sound University, and Pacific Lutheran University.

2 year colleges/community college: These types of colleges offer associates degrees, and certificates. These types of colleges offer small class sizes, they are more affordable, and are usually close to home. Students do not generally live on campus at these colleges. Some examples of two year colleges are Bellevue College, Highline College, and Seattle Colleges, etc. Click here for a list of 2 year colleges in Washington State.

Vocational/Technical colleges: These colleges prepare students for specialized careers through practical, hands-on training. These schools usually offer certificates for careers such as culinary, mechanics, electricians, cosmetology, and so many more! Usually if you want to go into the trades, you will attend a vocational/technical college. Examples of technical/vocational colleges are Renton Technical College and Lake Washington Institute of Technology.