American University – An In-Depth College Profile

Of course. Here is a comprehensive and detailed profile of American University, crafted for your website to provide valuable, in-depth information for prospective students and their families.

American University – An In-Depth College Profile

Website: www.american.edu/
Location: Washington, D.C.
Enrollment: 13,019 Students
Graduation Rate: 73%
Acceptance Rate: 47%
Undergraduate Tuition & Fees: $56,543

Where Theory Meets Practice in the Nation’s Capital

American University (AU) is a premier student-centered research institution known for its unwavering commitment to public service, political engagement and international affairs. Nestled in a residential neighborhood of Washington, D.C., AU offers a beautiful, safe campus that is just a short metro ride from the epicenter of global power. The university’s motto, “Ideas into Action, Action into Service,” is woven into the fabric of every program, empowering students to become passionate changemakers who graduate ready to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.

Key Facts at a Glance

Total Enrollment: 13,019 students
Student Body Makeup: 60% Undergraduate, 40% Graduate
Learning Schedule: 96% Full-Time, 4% Part-Time (primarily a residential campus)
Undergrad Gender Ratio: 63% Female, 37% Male
Setting: Residential 90-acre campus in a prestigious area of Northwest Washington, D.C.

Costs and Financial Aid: Investing in a Changemaker Education

Attending American University is a significant investment in a future of leadership and impact. While the published cost is high, AU provides substantial financial aid to help make this education accessible.

Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance: $76,175
This comprehensive cost or “sticker price,” includes:

Tuition and Fees: $56,543
Room and Board: $17,012
Books and Supplies: $1,000
Other Personal Expenses: $1,620

How Students Actually Pay for College:
The net cost after financial aid is a more accurate representation of what families pay.

Institutional Grants & Scholarships: A strong 62% of students receive merit-based or need-based aid directly from AU, averaging $30,259 per year. This is a critical component of funding for the majority of the student body.
Federal Student Loans: 43% of students utilize federal loans, borrowing an average of $9,121 per year.
Federal Grants: 15% of students, typically those with demonstrated financial need, receive an average of $5,376.
State/Local Grants: 2% of students receive minor state aid, averaging $525.

Net Price and Your Actual Cost:
After factoring in grants and scholarships, the average annual out-of-pocket cost for families is reduced to $43,412. This “net price” is the most important figure for family financial planning.

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Admissions: A Selective and Mission-Driven Process

Gaining admission to AU is competitive with a 47% acceptance rate. The university seeks academically strong students who have also demonstrated a commitment to leadership, community service and global awareness—the core values of the AU community.

Test Scores of Admitted Students (Middle 50% Range):

SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 670-740
SAT Math: 630-710
ACT Composite Score: 29-33

American University is test-optional for most applicants. Only 26% of applicants submit SAT scores and 16% submit ACT scores, indicating that a powerful high school transcript, compelling essays and meaningful extracurricular involvement are often sufficient for a successful application.

A Diverse and Globally-Minded Campus Community

AU prides itself on fostering a diverse, inclusive and politically engaged community that reflects its international and public service-oriented mission.

The undergraduate student body is composed of:

White: 56%
Hispanic: 13%
Black: 8%
Non-resident Alien: 8%
Asian or Pacific Islander: 7%
Two or More Races: 5%
Unknown: 3%
American Indian or Alaskan Native: 0%

This diversity ensures a rich exchange of perspectives in and out of the classroom, preparing students for leadership in a globalized world.

Academics: Leading in Public Affairs and More

AU is consistently ranked among the top universities in the country for its programs in public affairs, international service and communication. It is organized into several schools including the School of International Service, the School of Public Affairs, the College of Arts and Sciences and the Kogod School of Business.

Most Popular Majors (Number of Graduates):

International Relations and Affairs (386): Housed in the world’s largest school of international affairs, this flagship program offers unparalleled access to global policymakers, diplomats and practitioners.
Business Administration and Management, General (239): Kogod School of Business students benefit from a curriculum that integrates business fundamentals with the unique policy and international dynamics of Washington, D.C.
Political Science and Government, General (182): A natural fit for students aiming for careers in politics, law, advocacy and government with countless opportunities for hands-on learning.
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other (121): Reflects AU’s commitment to innovative, cross-disciplinary approaches to complex problems.
Public Relations/Image Management (102): Leveraging D.C.’s status as a global media hub, this program prepares students for careers in strategic communication, public affairs and digital media.

Graduation Rate:
AU boasts a solid 4-year graduation rate of 73% which is well above the national average. This indicates that students receive strong 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

Campus life at AU is active and engaged with over 200 student clubs and organizations including a vibrant student government, political groups across the spectrum and numerous cultural and service organizations. The university’s location is its greatest asset, facilitating over 85% of students completing at least one internship during their undergraduate career.

The AU Career Center has deep connections with employers in the federal government, non-profit sector, media and international organizations. This powerful network, combined with the practical experience students gain, leads to strong post-graduation outcomes with a high percentage of graduates securing employment or entering top law, public policy and international affairs graduate programs shortly after commencement.

How to Fund Your AU Education

An AU education is an investment in a future of leadership and service. Strategic financial planning is essential.

Maximize Free Aid: Always exhaust grants and scholarships before turning to loans. Pay close attention to the merit-based scholarships offered directly by AU.
Complete the FAFSA: This is essential to unlock federal grants, work-study and loans. AU also requires the CSS Profile for a more detailed financial picture for need-based aid.
Apply for External Scholarships: Millions of dollars in private scholarships are awarded each year.

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 AU’s strong institutional aid and supplementing with external scholarships, a transformative education at the center of global influence becomes an achievable goal.

Information is based on the latest available data. Always check the official American University website for the most current costs, admission requirements and financial aid deadlines.