Overview
George Mason University is an open admission public four-year institution in Fairfax, Virginia. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
George Mason requires your high school transcript, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal statement through the Common Application or Coalition Application. The regular decision deadline is January 15, with rolling admissions afterward until spaces fill.
Apply early for competitive programs like nursing, which has limited spots and additional prerequisites including specific science courses. Engineering programs also maintain higher admission standards than the university average. The Honors College requires a separate application with essays and has its own deadlines.
Submit your housing application immediately after acceptance if you want on-campus housing. Popular residence halls fill quickly, and Mason guarantees housing only for first-year students who apply by the May 1 deadline. Off-campus apartments in Fairfax are expensive, so factor housing costs into your planning.
Mason operates on a semester system and requires orientation before your first semester. You'll register for classes during orientation, so research your major requirements beforehand. The campus spans multiple locations, with the main Fairfax campus handling most undergraduate programs.
Virginia residents pay significantly less than out-of-state students, but Mason does not offer much merit aid to offset the difference. Submit your FAFSA early since financial aid is processed on a first-come basis. The school participates in the Virginia Community College transfer agreement, making it easier to transfer credits if you start elsewhere.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,287/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $13,815
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $39,397
- Students Receiving Aid
- 30%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 69.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $76,343/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 87.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does George Mason University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
George Mason University is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. If you choose to submit test scores, they will be considered as part of your application review.
What is the application deadline for George Mason University?
George Mason University has a rolling admissions policy with a priority deadline of January 15 for fall admission. Applications submitted after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Does George Mason University offer early decision or early action?
George Mason University offers early action with a November 1 deadline. Early action is non-binding and gives students an admission decision by January 15.
How many credits can transfer students bring to George Mason University?
Transfer students can bring up to 75 credits from community colleges or up to 90 credits from four-year institutions. Students must complete at least 30 credits at George Mason to earn a degree.