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UNITED STATES · WASHINGTON, D.C.

George Washington University

private · Founded 1821 · Languages: en

In short

George Washington University is a private research university in Washington, D.C., offering over 100 undergraduate and 230 graduate programs. Its prime location provides unique internship and policy engagement opportunities within a diverse, international community.

Key facts

Type: Private
Founded: 1821
Students: 26,000
International students: 4,000
Acceptance rate: 49%
Tuition (intl): €30–60k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Washington, D.C., United States

The George Washington University (GW) is a private research university located in Washington, D.C., chartered by an act of Congress in 1821. It offers a wide array of academic programs across its 10 schools and colleges, with over 100 undergraduate and more than 230 graduate programs, including certificate, master's, and doctoral levels. GW is committed to fostering an environment where students can turn knowledge into action, leveraging its unique location for unparalleled access to world-class partnerships, policy-research initiatives, and learning opportunities. Students at GW come from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and over 130 countries, contributing to a diverse and globally-minded community. The university emphasizes impactful scholarship, student success, and a culture of excellence. Researchers at GW tackle global challenges in various fields, from advancing cancer therapies and preventing diabetes to building trustworthy AI systems, often supported by federal funding. Learning extends beyond the classroom at GW, with students engaging in internships at leading institutions, participating in community service, and interacting with government leaders. The university also offers various campus locations, including the main Foggy Bottom Campus, the more serene Mount Vernon Campus, and the Virginia Science and Technology Campus, along with over 100 online programs for flexible learning.

Why study here

Access unparalleled opportunities due to the university's location in the heart of Washington, D.C., offering direct engagement with government, international organizations, and cultural institutions.
Benefit from a diverse and global community, learning alongside peers from over 130 countries and studying with faculty who are experts, policymakers, and world-renowned figures.
Engage in cutting-edge research across various disciplines, contributing to real-world impact in areas such as health, innovation, and technology, supported by significant federal funding.
Choose from a wide range of academic programs, with over 100 undergraduate and 230+ graduate options across 10 schools and colleges, allowing for interdisciplinary study and specialized expertise.
Take advantage of extensive career development resources, including personalized coaching, internship opportunities with leading organizations, and access to a vast alumni network worldwide.

Student life

Campus life at George Washington University offers a dynamic and diverse experience. Living in residence halls is a key part of the undergraduate journey, fostering connections that often last a lifetime. With over 450 clubs and student organizations, students can pursue interests in leadership, politics, arts, culture, athletics, and service, building a vibrant and engaging community. The university's Foggy Bottom Campus, steps away from the White House and National Mall, provides unparalleled opportunities for learning, internships, and cultural exploration. For a different environment, the Mount Vernon Campus, known as 'The Vern,' offers open lawns and green spaces with residential, athletic, and performing arts facilities, connected by a shuttle service to Foggy Bottom. Additionally, the Virginia Science and Technology Campus provides specialized STEM-H programs. GW fosters an environment where students from around the world live and learn together, making the most of their D.C. experience.

Fees

InternationalInternational students pay the same published tuition as other students; full-time undergraduate tuition is roughly USD 33,000 to USD 65,000 per year depending on program, plus fees, living and health insurance.

HomeTuition rates vary by student type (undergraduate, graduate, non-degree) and specific program. The university charges tuition per credit, and additional program fees may apply based on delivery or campus. Detailed tuition and fee schedules can be found on the Student Accounts page. For planning purposes, an estimated Cost of Attendance worksheet is available.

LivingLiving costs in Washington, D.C., including housing, food and transport, are estimated at roughly USD 18,000 to USD 24,000 per year and are included in the university's Cost of Attendance.

GW offers 'Revolutionary Promise' to support affordability and access, including free tuition for families with incomes under $100,000. Students interested in federal financial aid (U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens) should submit the FAFSA annually. Various scholarships, grants, and campus employment opportunities are also available to help fund education.

Admissions

ApplicationCommon Application with GW-specific questions; SAT/ACT optional under GW's test-optional policy.

Academic recordsOfficial secondary school transcripts and, for transfer/graduate applicants, college transcripts.

English proficiencyInternational applicants whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent scores.

TOEFL iBT100

IELTS6.5

Rankings

QS World University Rankings 2026358

U.S. News & World Report — National Universities 202563

University scholarships

Revolutionary PromiseFull tuition for families with incomes under $100,000

GW Business FellowshipsNot specified

Accreditation

The George Washington University is institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), with additional programmatic accreditation for specific schools such as the Graduate School of Education and Human Development (GSEHD).

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

Typical living cost

€1,420/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

George Washington University · United States

Bachelor of Science in Business - Business Analytics Concentration

The Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Business Analytics equips students with the analytical tools and conceptual understanding needed to leverage data for decision-making. This program goes beyond basic data manipulation, focusing on transforming data into actionable insights within an organizational context. It prepares students to tackle complex problems regardless of dataset size or complexity.

George Washington University · United States

Bachelor of Science in Business - International Business Concentration

The International Business concentration at the George Washington University School of Business equips undergraduates with the analytical skills and conceptual understanding to navigate the global business landscape. You will explore how international financial, political, and economic factors influence business strategy and performance. The program also delves into the role of culture in multinational enterprises and how to leverage resources across different countries to overcome operational challenges. This program offers a comprehensive view of international business through three interconnected perspectives: international economics and finance, international marketing, and international corporate strategy. You will gain insights into managing a multinational enterprise effectively. Graduates will be prepared for entry-level roles in global corporations, international banks, and governmental agencies, including organizations like the Export-Import Bank, the World Bank, and various government departments.

George Washington University · United States

Doctoral Program in Business Administration

The George Washington University School of Business (GWSB) offers a doctoral program designed to prepare students for careers in academia and research. The program aims to provide a rigorous educational experience that enhances relationships among students and faculty, fostering a strong sense of community and a network of support for success within the program and beyond. Doctoral students are integral to the GWSB community, with an established Doctoral Student Association (DSA) that represents student interests and facilitates their educational journey. The DSA works to support students' academic and professional development throughout their tenure at the university.

George Washington University · United States

Global and Experiential Education Student Resources

The George Washington University (GW) offers extensive global and experiential education resources for students, particularly those in the GW School of Business. These resources are designed to support students planning to study abroad or engage in international learning experiences. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and opportunities within the heart of Washington D.C. GW provides a wide array of programs across its 10 schools and colleges, offering over 100 undergraduate and more than 230 graduate programs (certificate, master's, and doctoral levels). Students can study on the main campus in D.C., at the Virginia Science and Technology campus, or through over 100 online programs.

George Washington University · United States

Global MBA (GMBA)

The George Washington University School of Business (GWSB) offers a Global MBA (GMBA) program designed for international students seeking to enhance their business acumen and global perspective. This program provides a foundation in key skills essential for success both academically and professionally. Students will gain access to a wide range of resources and support services to help them adjust to campus life and thrive in the GWSB community.

George Washington University · United States

Graduate Certificate in Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The Graduate Certificate in Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at George Washington University brings together students from various academic backgrounds to foster collaboration and idea generation. The program focuses on the broader academic understanding of entrepreneurship, emphasizing risk-taking and the introduction of new innovations. The core goal is to create a supportive community where participants can learn, discuss, and develop new ventures and businesses, promoting a culture of creativity and innovation.

Scholarships

for United States

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Duke University

Karsh International Scholarship Program

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.

University of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)

University of Miami Stamps Scholarship

Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What are the tuition fees for international students at George Washington University?

International students pay the same published tuition as other students. Full-time undergraduate tuition ranges from approximately USD 33,000 to USD 65,000 per year, depending on the program. This does not include additional fees, living expenses, and health insurance.

What are the estimated living costs for students in Washington, D.C.?

Estimated living costs in Washington, D.C., which include housing, food, and transportation, are approximately USD 18,000 to USD 24,000 per year. These costs are factored into the university's overall Cost of Attendance.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?

International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency. Minimum scores required are 100 for the TOEFL iBT and 6.5 for the IELTS.

Does George Washington University offer scholarships or financial aid to international students?

While the 'Revolutionary Promise' program offers support based on family income, specific scholarships and financial aid for international students would require consulting the university's admissions and financial aid pages. Students should inquire directly about opportunities available to them.

How diverse is the student body at George Washington University?

George Washington University boasts a diverse student body, with students hailing from all 50 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and over 130 countries, contributing to a globally-minded community.

Last updated 3 July 2026