George Washington University (GWU) – An In-Depth College Profile
Website: https://www.gwu.edu/
Location: Washington, D.C.
Enrollment: 25,568 Students
Graduation Rate: 79%
Acceptance Rate: 44%
Undergraduate Tuition & Fees: $64,990
The Gateway to Global Opportunity in the Nation’s Capital
George Washington University (GWU) is not just a university; it’s a dynamic ecosystem embedded in the heart of Washington, D.C. As a premier private research institution, GWU offers its students a unique “living classroom” where the lines between academic theory and real-world practice blur. Its location, just a few blocks from the White House and the World Bank, provides unparalleled access to internships, networking and career opportunities in government, international relations, business and science. With a strong emphasis on public service and global engagement, GWU attracts ambitious students eager to make an impact from day one.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Total Enrollment: 25,568 students
- Student Body Makeup: 44% Undergraduate, 56% Graduate
- Learning Schedule: 91% Full-Time, 9% Part-Time
- Undergrad Gender Ratio: 64% Female, 36% Male
- Setting: Urban
Costs and Financial Aid: Investing in a Premier Education
Attending a top-tier private university like GWU is a significant investment but the university is committed to making it accessible through substantial financial aid packages.
Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: $84,315
This comprehensive cost or “sticker price,” includes:
- Tuition and Fees: $64,990
- Room and Board: $16,300
- Books and Supplies: $1,400
- Other Personal Expenses: $1,625
How Students Actually Pay for College:
The published cost can be misleading, as the vast majority of students receive significant financial support that dramatically reduces the out-of-pocket expense.
- Institutional Grants & Scholarships: A remarkable 77% of students receive merit-based or need-based aid directly from GWU, averaging $33,965 per year. This is the most significant source of funding and reflects GWU’s commitment to attracting a talented and diverse student body.
- Federal Student Loans: 38% of students utilize federal loans, borrowing an average of $10,130 per year.
- Federal Grants: 16% of students, typically those with demonstrated financial need, receive an average of $7,166.
- State/Local Grants: 1% of students receive minor state aid, averaging $2,536.
Net Price and Your Actual Cost:
After factoring in grants and scholarships, the average annual out-of-pocket cost for families is significantly reduced to $34,462. This “net price” is a more accurate starting point for financial planning.
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Admissions: A Selective and Holistic Process
Gaining admission to GWU is competitive with an acceptance rate of 44%. The university employs a holistic review process, looking beyond just grades and test scores to assess a student’s essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular involvement and unique potential to contribute to the campus community.
Test Scores of Admitted Students (Middle 50% Range):
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 680-750
- SAT Math: 670-750
- ACT Composite Score: 31-34
It is important to note that GWU is test-optional for most applicants, meaning submitting SAT or ACT scores is not a mandatory part of the application. Only 30% of applicants submit SAT scores and 12% submit ACT scores, indicating that strong academic performance in a rigorous high school curriculum can be sufficient for consideration.
A Diverse and Accomplished Campus Community
GWU fosters a multicultural environment that prepares students for a globalized world. The undergraduate student body is a rich tapestry of backgrounds and perspectives:
- White: 48%
- Asian or Pacific Islander: 15%
- Hispanic: 13%
- Black: 8%
- Non-resident Alien: 8%
- Two or More Races: 5%
- Unknown: 2%
- American Indian or Alaskan Native: 0%
This diversity is a core part of the GWU experience, encouraging cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.
Academics: Learning Where History is Made
GWU’s academic strengths are deeply intertwined with its location. The university is organized into several schools including the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, the Elliott School of International Affairs, the School of Business and the School of Engineering and Applied Science.
Most Popular Majors (Number of Graduates):
- International Relations and Affairs (493): GWU’s flagship program, leveraging its D.C. location for unparalleled access to global institutions, embassies and think tanks.
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse (272): A rigorous program that benefits from partnerships with top-ranked hospitals and medical research centers in the D.C. area.
- Political Science and Government, General (244): A natural fit for students looking to pursue careers in politics, policy, law and public service.
- Business Administration and Management, General (138): Focused on entrepreneurship, finance and management within the context of the global economy.
- Public Health, Other (123): Addressing critical health issues with opportunities to engage with organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization.
Graduation Rate:
GWU boasts a strong 4-year graduation rate of 79% which is well above the national average. This indicates that students receive excellent academic advising and support, enabling them to complete their degrees on time and enter the workforce or graduate school without delay.
Student Life and Career Outcomes
Life at GWU is fast-paced and engaged. There are over 450 student organizations, ranging from political clubs and cultural associations to volunteer groups and intramural sports. The Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses provide a traditional college feel within an urban setting.
The university’s Career Services department is exceptionally active, hosting one of the largest career fairs in the region and facilitating over 12,000 internships annually. GWU’s powerful alumni network includes leaders in every field, from senators and journalists to CEOs and scientists. This network, combined with the practical experience students gain, leads to strong post-graduation outcomes with a high percentage of graduates securing employment or entering graduate school within six months of commencement.
How to Fund Your GWU Education
A GWU education is an investment in your future and strategic planning is key. Follow these steps:
- Maximize Free Aid: Always exhaust grants and scholarships before turning to loans.
- Complete the FAFSA: This is essential to unlock federal grants, work-study and loans. GWU also requires the CSS Profile for a more detailed financial picture.
- Apply for External Scholarships: Millions of dollars in private scholarships are awarded each year based on everything from your major to your hometown.
We make it simple by matching you to scholarships you qualify for based on your background, interests and academic profile.
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By leveraging GWU’s generous institutional aid and supplementing with external scholarships, a world-class education at the center of global power becomes an achievable goal.
Information is based on the latest available data. Always check the official George Washington University website for the most current costs, admission requirements and financial aid deadlines.
