Overview
George Washington University is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Washington, District of Columbia. The school accepts 49.0% of applicants and enrolls 10,848 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 49.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,410
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,330–1,490
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 10,848
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
George Washington University sits blocks from the White House, and your application should reflect how you plan to use this unparalleled access to power centers. The school's location in Foggy Bottom means internships at federal agencies, think tanks, and lobbying firms are walking distance away, so connect your academic interests to these opportunities in your essays.
Your personal statement should address GW's location-specific question about how you would engage with Washington, DC. Don't write generically about monuments and museums. Instead, research specific organizations, agencies, or initiatives that align with your goals and explain how you would contribute during your time there. The admissions office wants to see you understand what makes GW different from other urban universities.
Strong applicants highlight leadership roles that show decision-making ability, since GW attracts students who want to shape policy and business. If you're interested in international affairs, mention the Elliott School's simulation exercises and Model UN programs. Engineering applicants should note the school's growing tech partnerships with government contractors and the new Science and Engineering Hall.
The student body skews politically engaged and professionally focused. You'll find peers interning on Capitol Hill during the semester and networking at embassy events. If you prefer a traditional college town atmosphere with football tailgates and Greek life dominance, GW may not match your expectations.
Apply early decision if GW is your clear first choice, as the school admits a higher percentage of ED applicants. The application includes GW-specific short answer questions that change annually, so don't recycle essays from other schools. Recent prompts have asked about intellectual curiosity and community problem-solving.
Your transcript matters more than test scores here. Take challenging courses senior year and maintain strong grades through graduation. The admissions committee pays attention to course selection, particularly if you're applying to specialized programs like the seven-year BA/MD program with GW's medical school.
Visit campus if possible and attend information sessions, as GW tracks demonstrated interest. The urban campus integrates with city blocks rather than creating a separate college bubble, so walk around the Foggy Bottom area to see if you're comfortable with this setup.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $37,454/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $64,990
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 85.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $90,873/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 91.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does George Washington University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
George Washington University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What are the application deadlines for George Washington University?
George Washington University offers Early Decision I (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), and Regular Decision (January 1) application deadlines. Early Decision is binding, while Regular Decision is not.
Can transfer students apply to George Washington University?
George Washington University accepts transfer applications for fall and spring semesters. Transfer students must have completed at least 30 credit hours at their previous institution to be considered.
What GPA do you need to get into George Washington University?
George Washington University does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The university reviews applications using multiple factors beyond just grades, including course rigor and extracurricular activities.