George Mason University: 90.0% Acceptance Rate

90.0%Acceptance

$13,815Tuition

27,083Students

69%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$76,343Earnings

#13 in VirginiaPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About George Mason University

George Mason University has built a strong reputation in economics, engineering, and public policy since opening in 1957. The 27,083 students benefit from proximity to Washington DC's policy and business networks. Notable graduates include musician Aimee Mann and political speechwriter Jon Favreau. The 90% acceptance rate makes this public research university accessible to most applicants, though the 1245 average SAT score shows students arrive well-prepared.

The financial picture looks solid for most families. Students pay an average net price of $18,287 after aid, with low-income families paying just $12,197. Graduates earn a median of $76,343 ten years out, making the typical debt load of $19,500 manageable. Monthly loan payments average $207. In-state students get the best deal at $13,815 in tuition, while out-of-state families face $39,397 before aid.

The student body reflects Northern Virginia's diversity, with Asian students comprising 23.6% of enrollment and Hispanic students making up 17.4%. About 80% of students come from Virginia. The 16:1 student-faculty ratio provides reasonable access to professors at this large research institution. With 87% of freshmen returning for sophomore year, most students find what they're looking for in Fairfax's suburban setting.

Academics & Faculty

George Mason attracts students with its 90% acceptance rate, but the real draw is its growing reputation as a research university. The economics department gained national prominence after two faculty members won Nobel Prizes, while the engineering and computer science programs benefit from proximity to Washington D.C.'s tech corridor. Public policy students tap into internships across the capital region. With a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, professors remain accessible despite the large enrollment of 27,083 students. The 69% six-year graduation rate reflects the challenges many face balancing work and school in the expensive D.C. metro area, though graduates earn a median of $76,343 within ten years.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Full-Time Faculty: 52.9%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 69.9%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 69.3%
Retention Rate: 87.4%
Median Earnings (10 years): $76,343
Carnegie Classification: Doctoral University (R1)

Popular Programs by Earnings

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Information Science/Studies.	Master	$106,421
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Campus Life

George Mason sits just 18 miles from Washington DC, giving students easy access to internships and jobs in the nation's capital. Only 23% of the 27,083 students live in campus housing, creating a commuter-heavy atmosphere where many students drive to classes. The suburban Fairfax campus buzzes with activity during weekdays but empties on weekends as students head home or into DC.

You'll need a proper winter coat here, as Northern Virginia sees snow and temperatures that dip into the 20s and 30s during winter months. The diverse student body reflects the DC metro area's demographics, with 32% white students and strong representation from Asian (24%), Hispanic (17%), and Black (12%) communities. Many students work part-time jobs or internships in nearby Arlington or DC rather than participating in traditional college social activities. The Patriots compete in Division I athletics with 18 varsity sports, though school spirit centers more around academic achievements than game day traditions. Weekend life often involves exploring DC's museums, restaurants, and nightlife rather than staying on campus.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 6,251 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1957

Campus Safety (2023)

108 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential
Stalking	52	8
Motor Vehicle Theft	13	0
Rape	6	5
Fondling	4	4
Dating Violence	4	3
Domestic Violence	4	0
Aggravated Assault	2	0
Arson	1	0
Burglary	1	0
Robbery	1	0

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 23°–42°F
July Avg: 66°–83°F
Annual Precipitation: 43.6"
Annual Snowfall: 18.5"

Student Demographics

George Mason draws a remarkably diverse student body that reflects Northern Virginia's cosmopolitan character. Asian students make up nearly a quarter of enrollment, while Hispanic and Black students contribute another 30% combined. The 80% in-state rate shows George Mason's strong regional pull among DC-area families seeking quality public education. Economics and policy programs attract students interested in government careers, while engineering draws those planning tech sector jobs. The balanced gender split mirrors the university's broad academic offerings. Nearly 30% receive Pell Grants, making George Mason accessible to working-class families throughout Virginia.

Men: 51.0%
Women: 49.0%
White: 33.0%
Black: 12.3%
Hispanic: 17.4%
Asian: 23.6%
In-State Students: 80.5%
Pell Grant Recipients: 29.5%

Location

George Mason University sits in Fairfax, Virginia, just 20 miles southwest of Washington DC in the heart of Northern Virginia's tech corridor. The campus occupies 817 acres in one of the nation's most educated and affluent suburban regions. Fairfax County consistently ranks among America's wealthiest counties, with a median household income exceeding $130,000. The area pulses with government contractors, tech companies, and international organizations drawn by proximity to the capital. Students tap into extensive internship networks across DC's federal agencies and Virginia's booming defense industry. The suburban setting offers safety and resources while maintaining easy metro access to urban opportunities. Students considering colleges in Virginia may also compare George Mason University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Fairfax, Virginia 22030-4444

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $76,343
Median Earnings (5 years): $75,373
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $47,000
Loan Repayment Rate: 73.0%
Monthly Loan Payment: $207/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $19,500

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at George Mason University?

George Mason University admits 90% of applicants, making it accessible to most qualified students. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1140-1350 on the SAT. This relatively high acceptance rate reflects the university's mission as a public institution serving the diverse Northern Virginia region.

How much does George Mason University cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $18,287 annually after aid at George Mason University. In-state tuition runs $13,815 while out-of-state students face $39,397 in tuition costs. About 30% of students receive Pell Grants, helping make this research university affordable for middle-income families.

What academic programs is George Mason University known for?

George Mason University has built a strong reputation in economics, engineering, and public policy programs. The university maintains a 16:1 student-faculty ratio across its 27,083 enrolled students. As a research institution founded in 1957, it has quickly established itself as a major player in policy research and applied sciences.

What are the career outcomes for George Mason University graduates?

George Mason University graduates earn a median salary of $76,343 ten years after graduation. The employment rate reaches 94.6% for recent graduates, reflecting strong job market connections in the Washington DC area. Graduates typically leave with $19,500 in debt and monthly loan payments of $207.

Where is George Mason University located and what is campus life like?

George Mason University sits in Fairfax, Virginia, a large suburban setting near Washington DC. The campus houses 6,251 students in residence halls, serving a total enrollment of 27,083. The Patriots compete in NCAA Division I athletics with 18 varsity sports and over $7.6 million in athletic scholarships.

How diverse is the student body at George Mason University?

George Mason University enrolls a remarkably diverse student population with no single racial group forming a majority. Asian students comprise 23.6% of enrollment, Hispanic students 17.4%, and Black students 12.3%, while White students make up 33%. About 80% of students come from Virginia, creating a mix of local and national perspectives in the DC metro area.