Washington High School Seniors Prefer University of Washington Over Washington State by a Slim Margin

LEE'S SUMMIT, MO (05/18/2011)(readMedia)-- MyCollegeOptions.org, the nation's largest college planning program, has announced that The University of Washington has beaten out Washington State University in the minds of Washington high school seniors.

Thirty-eight percent of seniors in Washington have named The University of Washington a top college choice compared to 26% of the class declaring a desire to attend Washington State University.

Over 13,000 Washington students have reported their top college choices to MyCollegeOptions.org. Overall, more than 30,000 Washington students currently participate in the MyCollegeOptions.org college planning program.

"This year's competitions between universities are not only settled on the football field, the basketball court and other sporting venues – they begin much sooner for students and families across the country. As early as 8th grade, students are planning and preparing to attend the college or university that is best for them. All institutions of higher education try to stand apart from their competition in the hearts and minds of their future freshman classes," remarked Ryan Munce, Vice President of My College Options.

For now, in the battle of choice, The University of Washington has beaten this longtime rival. But like any sport, there is always next year, and the high school class of 2012 could have a very different opinion.

Rounding out the top five overall most declared colleges for the Washington high school class of 2011 are:

1. The University of Washington - 38.3%

2. Washington State University - 25.9%

3. Western Washington University - 10.7%

4. Eastern Washington University - 9.5%

5. Central Washington University - 8.8%

About My College Options®

MyCollegeOptions.org, the nation's largest college planning program, is operated by the National Research Center for College & University Admissions™. For almost 40 years, this non-profit education research organization based in Lee's Summit, MO has served as the primary link between high school students and colleges, universities, and the resources they need to succeed. For more information, visit www.mycollegeoptions.org.