Among the hundreds of higher education institutions in the United States, George Washington University (GWU) stands out for its unique location and academic reputation. Situated in Washington, D.C., a hub of political and cultural significance, the university offers students not only rich academic resources but also unparalleled access to national and international affairs. Recently ranked #63 in the latest U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges rankings, GWU continues to attract outstanding students from around the globe, offering expansive learning and development opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.
University Overview
With tuition set at $67,710, GWU falls in the upper-middle range of private U.S. universities. While the cost is substantial, the institution provides excellent return on investment through its exceptional educational quality and globalized academic approach. The university maintains a 57% on-campus housing rate, with thousands of students opting to live on campus to fully immerse themselves in campus life. GWU boasts an impressive 85% graduation rate, demonstrating its success in providing student support and resources.
Located in the heart of the city and operating on a semester system, GWU accommodates diverse academic needs. Current enrollment totals 25,568 students, including 11,387 undergraduates. The international student population represents approximately 7% of the student body, fostering rich cross-cultural exchange opportunities. The gender distribution stands at 36.36% male to 63.64% female, reflecting the university's commitment to gender equity. In the 2020 admissions cycle, GWU maintained a 44% acceptance rate, indicating both its popularity among applicants and its rigorous academic standards.
Admissions Process and Key Information
Prospective students should note several critical application deadlines. The Early Decision (ED) deadline falls on November 1, offering increased admission chances for committed applicants. A second ED round and the Regular Decision deadline both occur on January 5. During the 2019-2020 academic year, GWU received 27,094 applications and admitted 11,798 students, underscoring its appeal in both academic offerings and campus life.
The admissions committee conducts holistic reviews of each applicant, considering academic achievements, recommendation letters, personal statements, and extracurricular involvement to identify candidates who will thrive in the GWU community.
International Students and Academic Backgrounds
GWU proves particularly attractive to Chinese students, with applicants coming from diverse educational backgrounds including international programs like WLSA Fudan International High School Program and Beijing No. 35 High School International Department. The university's multicultural environment and dedicated support services—including international student advisors and cultural exchange programs—help students adapt to their new academic home.
Admission Case Study
A successful 2024 humanities applicant (female) gained admission through Regular Decision with SAT scores ranging 1300-1400. Her comprehensive application highlighted community service projects, academic competition honors, and summer internships. The personal statement effectively conveyed her passion for humanities and vision for societal improvement through research.
Admissions Statistics Analysis
2019 CollegeBoard data reveals GWU's competitive academic environment:
| Percentile | SAT Composite | Reading | Math |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top 25% | 32 | 720 | 678 |
| Bottom 25% | 29 | 678 | 640 |
Academic Programs and Career Outcomes
GWU offers sought-after programs with strong career prospects:
- Public Health: $53,900 average salary
- Nursing: $66,200 average salary
- Finance & Financial Management: $67,800 average salary
- International Relations & National Security: $43,500 average salary
- Biology: $30,200 average salary
Conclusion
Choosing GWU means accessing exceptional academic resources, a global network, and strong career preparation in the nation's capital. The university's prime location, diverse community, and robust support systems empower students to achieve their educational and professional aspirations.
Contact Information
For detailed information about programs, admissions requirements, and application procedures, visit GWU's official website. The university provides online consultation services to assist prospective students worldwide.