Overview
Washington, DC Located in Washington, D.C., George Washington University is known for its strong programs in international affairs, political science, and public policy. The university's location provides students with unique opportunities for internships and research in government agencies, think tanks, and international organizations.
There are currently 10,798 undergraduates at GW and the school’s acceptance rate is 49%. The tuition at GW is $62,200.
University
City
SupplementalEssay
Scholarships & Financial Aid
$80,945
$46,483
$34,462
Cost Breakdown
Estimated Cost:
$80,945for the 2023-2024 Academic Year
The sticker price at GW is $80,945. This sticker price includes costs for tuition, books and supplies, room and board, and other miscellaneous expenses.
It’s also important to note that the cost of attendance can vary from year to year and typically it will rise over your four years in college. With that said, your financial aid will also be recalculated every year to take any price increases, as well as any changes in your financial situation, into account.
College costs can look different for every student based on their financial situation. To get a more accurate picture of what tuition at GW would look like for you, try entering your financial information into their Net Price Calculator.
George Washington University Financial Aid
Students who are applying for financial aid at GW need to submit both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (or FAFSA), as well as the CSS Profile.
The FAFSA uses financial information from the prior, prior year which means that you don’t need to wait for the year to end and can use last year’s financial information.
The FAFSA code for GW is 001444 and the CSS Profile Code is 5246.
It should be noted that while the FAFSA is free, the CSS Profile does require an application fee. However, students can qualify for a CSS Profile application fee waiver if the cost will present a financial hardship for the students’ family.
If you are looking for more information on how to complete the FAFSA or the CSS Profile, check out these resources:
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Pell Grants at George Washington University
16% of students at George Washington University receive Pell Grants, which are awarded to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need (students who have a bachelor’s or professional degree are not eligible). Pell Grants are awarded by the federal government and do not need to be repaid. To apply for a Pell Grant, students will need to submit their FAFSA. If you are awarded a Pell Grant, you’ll see it listed in your financial aid award letter if you are accepted to George Washington University.
You can learn more about Pell Grant eligibility here.
Outside Scholarships
GW students can also apply for outside scholarships to fund their education. Outside scholarships are awards that are offered by private and non-profit organizations. If you want to see what outside scholarships you are eligible for, check out these resources:
George Washington University Financial Aid Resources
If you are looking for more information about financial aid and scholarships at GW or have questions that are specific to your personal situation, we recommend that you reach out directly to the financial aid office!
Here’s how you can get in touch:
- Website: https://financialaid.gwu.edu/
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 202-994-6620
Admissions
49%
32
1373 is the median SAT score and 32 is the median ACT score for admitted students at GW. A score that is close to this median value indicates that you have a good chance of admission to the institution. However, it’s important to remember that colleges judge applications holistically. If the rest of your application is strong, it’s possible to make up for lower test scores.
Does GW have a supplemental essay?
Yes, applicants to George Washington University will have to write a supplemental essay in order to complete their application. Luckily, we have a guide to help you through that essay prompt and stand out in the application process.
GW Supplemental Essay Guide
Is GW test-optional?
George Washington University is test-optional, which means that it does not require applicants to submit their SAT or ACT scores. That means that some students will submit their test scores and others will not. If you choose not to submit your ACT or SAT score, the admissions officers will weigh your grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and interviews more heavily. If you are not sure whether you should submit your standardized test scores, our guide on submitting scores to test-optional schools can help.
What SAT/ACT score do you need to get into George Washington University?
Colleges use standardized tests like the SAT and ACT as one of many factors to determine their admissions decisions. A high score on one of these tests does not guarantee admission to a college, and a low score does not guarantee rejection. However, the majority of accepted applicants to George Washington University receive between a 31 and a 34 on their ACT, or a 1295 and a 1465 on their SAT.
Early Decision I
Early Decision II
Regular Decision
What is the application deadline at GW?
Students must apply by January 5 to enroll at GW during the fall semester. Remember that college applications involve many pieces, including essays, a transcript, letters of recommendation, and more. Be sure to start your application as soon as you can to make sure you have enough time to make it as compelling as possible.
At GW students also have the opportunity to apply Early Decision. In order to take advantage of this option, you’ll have to have your application in by November 1.
You can also choose to apply Early Decision II, with a later deadline of January 5.
Should I apply Regular or Early Decision to GW?
Applying to GW with Early Decision can be a great decision if you are 100% sure you want to go there. You’ll find out your admissions decision earlier than other students, and some data shows that you may help your admissions chances. However, you should keep in mind that Early Decision is binding. If you do get into the school, you won’t be able to change your mind later. If there is any doubt in your mind, you should apply Early Action or Regular Decision instead.
Read more: All you need to know about Early Action vs Early Decision
Academics
Student/Faculty Ratio
12:1
Graduation Rate
85%
Popular Majors
Percent of Students
Social Sciences
31%
31% of graduates
Health Professions & Related Programs
17%
17% of graduates
Business, Management, & Marketing
15%
15% of graduates
Computer & Information Sciences
5%
5% of graduates
Biological & Biomedical Sciences
5%
5% of graduates
Psychology
5%
5% of graduates
Engineering
5%
5% of graduates
Communications & Journalism
5%
5% of graduates
Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting & Related Protective Services
2%
2% of graduates
Visual & Performing Arts
2%
2% of graduates
History
1%
1% of graduates
Area, Ethnic, Cultural, & Gender Studies
1%
1% of graduates
English Language & Literature
1%
1% of graduates
Natural Resources & Conservation
1%
1% of graduates
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies.
1%
1% of graduates
Public Administration & Social Services
1%
1% of graduates
Languages & Literatures
1%
1% of graduates
Philosophy & Religious Studies
1%
1% of graduates
Student Body
Undergraduate Students
10,798
Pell Grant 15%
Undergrad Students Over 25 10%
Part-Time Undergrad Students 5%
Percent Male / Female 37% / 63%
Ethnic Diversity at GW
50% White
14% Asian / Pacific Islander
13% Hispanic
9% International / Non-Citizen
8% Black
5% Multiracial
2% Unknown
Student Outcomes
Graduate Income
$90,873
Median Debt $20,449
Debt 10 years after graduation $217
Graduation Rate 85%
What is the graduation rate at George Washington University?
85% of students who start at George Washington University end up finishing their degree within six years of enrolling. This is 27% more than the national median. A higher graduation rate indicates that students have better experiences at an institution.
How much do graduates of George Washington University go on to earn?
10 years after starting school at George Washington University, the median earnings among students who received federal financial aid was $90,873. This is $40,482 more than the national median.
Earnings can vary widely based on many factors other than school choice. Your major and career path can cause substantial changes in your income down the line. For more information, check out our article on the average starting salary out of college.
How much do students at GW take out in loans?
Graduates of GW have to take out a median of $20,449 in federal student loans. This is $6,949 more than the national median. As you make decisions about your college loans, it’s important to inform yourself on the advantages and disadvantages of each loan option. Our guide to navigating these different options is a great place to start.
Data Sources
We strive to provide users with the most up-to-date information and source data from publicly available sources, including the College Scorecard and directly from the colleges. College statistics can change throughout the year, but we do our best to update them as quickly as possible. If you see an error, feel free to contact us.
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