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UNITED STATES · WASHINGTON

Georgetown University

private · Founded 1789 · Languages: en

In short

Georgetown University, established in 1789, offers a Jesuit-legacy education in Washington, D.C., preparing global citizens through diverse academic programs and real-world engagement opportunities. International students should note specific tuition fees and budgeting for living expenses, with limited financial aid available for graduate programs.

Key facts

Type: Private
Founded: 1789
Students: 17,500
International students: 3,500
Acceptance rate: 12%
Tuition (intl): €69–69k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Washington, United States

Georgetown University, established in 1789, is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the United States. Located in Washington, D.C., Georgetown offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in its 450-year-old Jesuit legacy, emphasizing intellectual inquiry, ethical understanding, and service to others. The university is a vibrant academic and research institution known for preparing global citizens to lead and make a difference in the world. Students at Georgetown benefit from powerful academics, dedicated professors, and a global mindset, with a focus on justice and understanding diverse perspectives. The university provides a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across 11 schools, fostering an environment where students question narratives and learn to shape a better future for everyone. Georgetown's commitment extends to real-world applications of its research, scholarship, faith, and service, collaborating with local and international partners on complex global challenges. The university's campuses include the historic Hilltop Campus, the fast-paced Capitol Campus steps from the nation's decision-making center, and other locations, all offering unique opportunities within the dynamic environment of Washington D.C. Whether through internships on Capitol Hill, pro-bono consulting for NGOs, or engagement in the city's rich cultural life, Georgetown integrates its location into the student experience.

Why study here

Access to a world-leading academic and research institution with a 450-year-old Jesuit legacy.
Benefit from a curriculum that prepares students to be creative leaders with a commitment to service and ethical understanding in global affairs.
Leverage the prime location in Washington, D.C., for unparalleled opportunities in government, international organizations, and the private sector.
Engage with influential practitioners and renowned scholars through various programs and initiatives.
Join a vibrant community that emphasizes intellectual openness, diversity, and a focus on justice for all.

Student life

Georgetown University offers a vibrant student life with hundreds of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, from performing arts and journalism to mentorships and social justice initiatives. Students can explore various communities that share their passions or spark new ones, with support available to even start a new club. The university is home to six a cappella groups that perform at campus events and festivals. Beyond campus, students are encouraged to engage with the Washington, D.C. community through service-learning and advocacy groups supported by the Center for Social Justice Research, Teaching and Service. This rich environment fosters lasting friendships and provides unique experiences, leveraging Georgetown's location for real-world engagement and personal growth.

Fees

InternationalTuition for the M.S. in Environment and Sustainability Management (ESM) program for the 2026-2027 academic year is $79,950. Undergraduate tuition for all students is approximately $65,000 per year. This fee excludes individual healthcare/health insurance premiums, books, supplies, student fees, room and board, visas, and incidental expenses.

Home—

LivingGeneral living expenses (room and board, books and supplies, visas, and incidental expenses) are not included in the tuition fees and should be budgeted for separately. On-campus room and board adds approximately $18,000–20,000 per year. Washington D.C. is a high cost-of-living city.

Georgetown University meets the full financial need of all eligible undergraduate students, with financial assistance not negatively impacting admissions chances. However, for graduate programs, specifically international students, a very limited number of need-based scholarships are available for those who indicate their intent to apply for financial aid on their application and submit a CSS/Financial Aid Profile.

Admissions

Official TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all institutions attended, including final official transcripts from degree-granting institutions. For non-U.S. institutions, transcripts must be in English, either issued by the university or provided with a certified translation. Degree conferral date must be explicitly stated or provided via an official letter.

Enrollment Response Form & DepositAdmitted students must submit an Enrollment Response Form and a non-refundable deposit (if applicable) by the specified deadline to confirm enrollment.

TOEFL4.0 (minimum)

IELTS7.5 (minimum)

Rankings

QS World University Rankings 2025250

U.S. News & World Report 2025#22 National Universities

Foreign Policy Magazine#1 Master's Program for International Affairs

University scholarships

ESM Merit ScholarshipsVaries; awarded to early-round applicants

Georgetown Undergraduate and Alumni Scholarship10% tuition discount

Civilian Federal Scholarship10% tuition discount

Merit-based Financial Aid (Graduate Programs)Competitive fellowships and assistantships

Yellow Ribbon FundingVeteran education benefits

Fulbright Foreign Student ProgramFull funding for international graduate students

Accreditation

Georgetown University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The Law Center is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). The School of Medicine is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). The McDonough School of Business holds AACSB accreditation.

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 →

Georgetown University · United States

Certificate in Health & Wellness Coaching

This certificate program equips you with the essential skills to become a certified health and wellness coach. You will explore core concepts of wellness coaching, the psychology behind behavior change, and understand major health challenges. The curriculum is grounded in Georgetown University's philosophy of 'cura personalis' (care for the whole person), addressing the mind, body, and spirit in coaching practices. The program is ideal for professionals in allied health, healthcare, or those seeking a career transition.

Georgetown University · United States

Department of Global Health - Georgetown University

Georgetown University's Department of Global Health fosters a diverse community of scholars dedicated to addressing medical, social, economic, and political issues impacting public health globally. The department offers undergraduate and graduate programs focused on research, policy, and practical experience to drive social justice and health equity. Graduates are prepared to analyze the complex interplay of environmental, cultural, economic, and political factors on population health and to develop innovative solutions for global health challenges.

Georgetown University · United States

Doctor of Medicine (MD) Program

The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program at Georgetown University School of Medicine (GUSOM) aims to educate knowledgeable, ethical, skillful, and compassionate physicians dedicated to patient care and societal health needs. The curriculum integrates scientific, clinical, and professional competencies, emphasizing patient-centered care within the values of the Georgetown community. GUSOM is committed to fostering a diverse student body and encourages applicants to review the comprehensive Guide to Application for detailed admission requirements, policies, and procedures.

Georgetown University · United States

Environment & Sustainability Abroad

Georgetown University offers unique study abroad experiences focused on environmental and sustainability challenges worldwide. These programs combine in-depth academic study with immersive, hands-on learning in diverse global locations. Students gain a deeper understanding of complex environmental issues, develop policy recommendations, and engage with local communities and experts. The programs are designed to foster global perspectives essential for addressing critical environmental and sustainability issues.

Georgetown University · United States

Global Business

The Global Business (GBUS) major at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service equips you to navigate the complex landscape where business, politics, economics, and culture intersect. In today's interconnected world, the private sector plays a crucial role in international affairs, interacting with governmental and non-governmental entities. This program provides training in international strategy, corporate ethics, and social responsibility, enabling you to manage these interactions effectively and beneficially. The GBUS major offers a unique interdisciplinary education by combining courses from the McDonough School of Business and the School of Foreign Service. This blend fosters a comprehensive understanding of multinational corporations' behavior and equips you with the essential tools for success in global markets.

Georgetown University · United States

J.D./M.B.A. Joint Degree Program

The J.D./M.B.A. is a four-year joint degree program designed for students who wish to pursue both a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.). This program requires completion of 119.5 academic credits, with specific credit distributions for both law and business coursework. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00/4.00 in the M.B.A. program and meet the J.D. program's GPA requirements. Upon successful completion, students will receive both the J.D. and M.B.A. degrees, along with a Joint Program Certificate. The program offers two focus areas within the law curriculum: Corporate Law or Public Policy, allowing students to tailor their legal studies to specific interests.

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 Georgetown University?

Tuition for the M.S. in Environment and Sustainability Management program for the 2026-2027 academic year is $79,950. Undergraduate tuition is approximately $65,000 per year. These fees do not include health insurance, books, supplies, student fees, room and board, or visa expenses.

What living expenses should international students budget for?

Living expenses such as room and board, books, supplies, visas, and incidental costs are not included in tuition. On-campus room and board typically adds between $18,000–$20,000 annually, and Washington D.C. is known for its high cost of living.

Does Georgetown University offer financial aid or scholarships for international students?

Georgetown University meets the full financial need of eligible undergraduate students. For graduate programs, a limited number of need-based scholarships are available for international students who indicate their need on their application and submit the CSS/Financial Aid Profile.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?

International applicants typically need a minimum TOEFL score of 4.0 or an IELTS score of 7.5. Proficiency can also be demonstrated by holding a degree from an institution where English was the primary language of instruction.

How does Georgetown University's location in Washington, D.C. benefit international students?

Georgetown's location provides unparalleled access to the centers of global politics and diplomacy. Students can pursue internships, build professional networks, and engage with government agencies, international organizations, and NGOs.

Last updated 3 July 2026