I got into UW with the intended major of physics but on my acceptance letter it says that my major is Pre-Physical sciences. Does that mean I need to apply/request for a physics major from the department later on in my sophomore year?
According to this page, physics is an open major at Washington:
http://www.washington.edu/students/gencat/academic/phys.html
“Students in good academic standing may declare the major at any time by visiting the department advising office to complete the necessary paperwork.”
It looks like you can declare the major and start taking classes toward your degree during your freshman year.
https://sharepoint.washington.edu/phys/ugrad/Pages/default.aspx
Click on “Paths to Graduation” to see the various pathways to a physics degree at UW.
In the “standard” pathway, the degree requirements are completed during junior year, and the senior year is spent taking more advanced courses to prepare for graduate school or other career goals.
Congratulations and good luck!