Overview
Georgetown University is a highly selective private four-year institution in Washington, District of Columbia. The school accepts 12.2% of applicants and enrolls 7,462 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 12.2%
- Average SAT
- 1,485
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,410–1,560
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 34
- Total Enrollment
- 7,462
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
Georgetown's admissions committee places heavy weight on your interviews, which are conducted by alumni volunteers and carry more influence here than at most peer institutions. The school admits students to specific undergraduate colleges,Georgetown College, the School of Foreign Service, the McDonough School of Business, or the School of Nursing and Health Studies,and you cannot easily transfer between them once enrolled.
Your essays should reference Georgetown's Jesuit identity, even if you're not Catholic. The university expects applicants to understand how Jesuit education emphasizes service to others and ethical leadership. Mention specific professors, research opportunities, or student organizations you've researched rather than generic statements about Georgetown's location in Washington, D.C.
The School of Foreign Service attracts many applicants who focus solely on international relations, but Georgetown's SFS also houses programs in Science, Technology and International Affairs, and International Political Economy. Don't assume you need a traditional IR background to fit here. The business school values applicants who can articulate specific career goals beyond "I want to work on Wall Street."
Georgetown maintains a strong Early Action program without binding commitment, giving you an advantage in admissions while preserving your ability to compare financial aid offers. The school also offers a Restrictive Early Action option that prevents you from applying early elsewhere but isn't binding.
Your application should address Georgetown's emphasis on "cura personalis",care for the whole person. This means discussing how you've grown from challenges or setbacks, not just listing achievements. The admissions office wants to see intellectual growth and personal reflection.
Don't overlook Georgetown's unique traditions when crafting your "Why Georgetown" essay. Reference the Hoya Saxa cheer, the Georgetown Chimes a cappella group, or the annual Lighting of the Gaston Hall Tree. These details show you've done research beyond the website's main pages.
Many applicants assume Georgetown only cares about government and politics because of its D.C. location. The university actually produces many graduates in healthcare, business, and technology. Your essays should reflect Georgetown's breadth rather than focusing narrowly on political aspirations unless that truly matches your interests.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $39,433/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $65,081
- Students Receiving Aid
- 10%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 94.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $103,494/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 97.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Georgetown University require the SAT or ACT?
Georgetown requires either the SAT or ACT for all applicants. The university does not have a test-optional policy.
Does Georgetown University offer early decision or early action?
Georgetown offers Early Action with a November 1 deadline. This is non-binding, so students can apply to other schools and compare financial aid offers.
What are the application deadlines for Georgetown University?
Early Action applications are due November 1, and Regular Decision applications are due January 10. Georgetown uses its own application system, not the Common Application.
Can you transfer to Georgetown University?
Georgetown accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must complete at least one year of college coursework before enrolling.