George Washington University
DC's Global Research University: Shaping Tomorrow.
📍 Washington, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #59 in United States · QS World #358 · THE World #201 · ARWU #301
Quick Facts about George Washington University
- Type: Private Non-Profit
- Students: 25,400
- International: 11%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $64,700 – $64,700/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Intakes: January, August
About George Washington University
Academics
GW offers a wide array of academic programs across seventy-one disciplines, with over 230 master's, doctoral, and graduate certificate programs available. Notable faculties include the Elliott School of International Affairs, which is uniquely positioned near the U.S. State Department and offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. The university emphasizes a teaching approach that expands classrooms into local, national, and global spheres, fostering real-world opportunities through research, internships, and community service. Multidisciplinary strengths are evident in its "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity" classification and membership in the Association of American Universities.
International Students
GW proudly hosts over 4,000 international students, faculty, and staff from more than 130 countries, contributing to a vibrant and diverse community. The International Services Office (ISO) provides comprehensive support, including orientation programs, immigration advising, social activities, and cultural adjustment workshops. English-taught programs are standard, and while English proficiency is required, waivers are possible under certain conditions. The Multicultural Student Services Center further supports a welcoming and inclusive environment through various student communities, cultural events, and diversity training.
Campus & Location
The main Foggy Bottom Campus is centrally located in Washington, D.C., mere blocks from the White House, the U.S. Department of State, and numerous international agencies, effectively turning the city into an extended classroom. This historic campus features residence halls, green spaces, and easy access to the Foggy Bottom-GWU Washington Metro station. GW also has a Mount Vernon Campus, offering a more traditional college atmosphere with shuttle service connecting it to Foggy Bottom, and a Virginia Science & Technology Campus focused on research.
Career Outcomes
GW's location in Washington, D.C., provides unparalleled opportunities for career development and industry connections, particularly in government, international affairs, and various other sectors. The Center for Career Services assists international students with job searches, internships, and understanding U.S. immigration and labor regulations. Programs like International Student Community Ambassadors (ISCA) offer peer mentorship, resume assistance, and workshops on professional topics. Notable alumni include prominent figures in politics, diplomacy, and business, such as former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell and the first president of South Korea, Syngman Rhee, highlighting the university's strong network and global impact.
Information for International Students at George Washington University
George Washington University in Washington, United States welcomes international students, with 11% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 11% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for George Washington University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to George Washington University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 90
- Duolingo minimum: 115
- GPA minimum: 3.96
- Application fee: $80
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: January 5
Programs at George Washington University (30 programs)
George Washington University offers 30 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (12)
- Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr
Students explore global politics, economics, and cultures, developing critical analytical skills to understand and address complex international challenges.
Field: International Affairs
Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Development Specialist, Foreign Service Officer, Journalist - Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, covering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer - Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr
This program provides a broad understanding of business principles and practices, with specializations available in areas like finance, marketing, and management.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Coordinator, Financial Analyst - Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr
Students develop skills in reporting, writing, and multimedia storytelling, preparing them for careers in news, digital media, and strategic communications.
Field: Journalism
Career outcomes: Reporter, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr
Students explore human behavior and mental processes, gaining a scientific understanding of the mind and its applications in various fields.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor (with further education), Human Resources Specialist, Market Researcher, Social Worker (with further education) - Bachelor of Arts in English (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr
This program cultivates critical thinking, analytical reading, and effective writing skills through the study of literature, rhetoric, and cultural texts.
Field: English
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Communications Specialist - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in theoretical computer science and practical programming skills, covering areas like algorithms, data structures, and software engineering.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr · STEM
This program prepares students for professional nursing practice, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention across diverse healthcare settings.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner (with further education), Public Health Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist - Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr
This program examines political systems, behavior, and theories, providing a critical understanding of governance and public affairs.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Political Analyst, Legislative Aide, Campaign Manager - Bachelor of Science in Finance (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr · STEM
Students gain expertise in financial markets, investments, corporate finance, and financial institutions, preparing them for careers in the financial industry.
Field: Finance
Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, Financial Advisor - Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, including buildings, bridges, roads, and water systems.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Urban Planner - Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,000/yr
This program teaches students the principles and practices of journalism, media production, and strategic communication across various platforms.
Field: Journalism
Career outcomes: Journalist, Reporter, Public Relations Specialist, Content Creator, Editor
Master Programs (9)
- Master of Arts in International Education (MA) — 24 months · English · $35,000/yr
This program focuses on the theory and practice of international education, preparing professionals for roles in global educational programs and institutions.
Field: International Education
Career outcomes: International Program Coordinator, Study Abroad Advisor, Educational Consultant - Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSc) — 24 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM
This program combines engineering principles with management techniques, preparing graduates to lead technical projects and teams in diverse organizational settings.
Field: Engineering Management
Career outcomes: Engineering Manager, Project Manager, Operations Manager, Technical Consultant - Master of Arts in Economics (MA) — 24 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM
The program provides rigorous training in economic theory and quantitative methods, preparing students for analytical roles in government, business, and research.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Data Analyst, Policy Advisor - Master of Science in Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $42,000/yr · STEM
This program provides comprehensive training in data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling, preparing students to extract insights from complex datasets.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Quantitative Analyst - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $60,000/yr
The MBA program develops strategic leadership and management skills, preparing students for executive roles in various industries through a comprehensive curriculum and experiential learning.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Management Consultant, Financial Manager, Marketing Director, Operations Manager - Master of Public Health (MPH) (MPH) — 24 months · English · $45,000/yr
This program trains public health professionals to address global health challenges, focusing on epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and health policy.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Epidemiologist, Public Health Analyst, Health Educator, Program Manager - Master of Arts in International Development Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr
Students learn to analyze and address global development challenges, focusing on poverty reduction, sustainable development, and humanitarian assistance.
Field: International Development Studies
Career outcomes: Development Specialist, NGO Program Manager, Policy Analyst, Consultant - Master of Arts in Museum Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $38,000/yr
Students gain expertise in museum operations, collections management, exhibition development, and educational programming, preparing for leadership roles in cultural institutions.
Field: Museum Studies
Career outcomes: Museum Curator, Collections Manager, Exhibition Designer, Museum Educator - Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSc) — 24 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM
This program equips students with advanced knowledge and skills to protect information systems and networks from cyber threats and attacks.
Field: Cybersecurity
Career outcomes: Cybersecurity Analyst, Information Security Engineer, Security Consultant
PhD Programs (9)
- PhD in Civil Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced research in areas such as structural engineering, transportation, and environmental engineering, addressing critical infrastructure challenges.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, University Professor, Structural Engineer - PhD in Political Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr
This program offers advanced study in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and American politics, fostering original research and scholarly contributions.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Political Analyst, Government Advisor, Researcher - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr · STEM
Students engage in cutting-edge research in theoretical and experimental physics, contributing to fundamental scientific understanding and technological advancements.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Engineer, Data Analyst - PhD in Biomedical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr · STEM
Students conduct advanced research at the intersection of engineering and medicine, developing innovative solutions for healthcare challenges and contributing to scientific discovery.
Field: Biomedical Engineering
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Medical Device Engineer, Biotech Innovator - PhD in History (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr
The program offers advanced study and research in various historical fields, preparing scholars for academic careers and roles in public history and archives.
Field: History
Career outcomes: University Professor, Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator - PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This program provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing students for research and academic careers in economics.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, University Professor, Policy Advisor - PhD in Public Policy (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr
This doctoral program prepares students for careers in policy research, analysis, and teaching, focusing on advanced theoretical and empirical methods to address complex public issues.
Field: Public Policy
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, University Professor, Government Researcher, Think Tank Fellow - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $35,000/yr · STEM
This program offers advanced research opportunities in various areas of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, contributing to scientific innovation.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Chemist, Materials Scientist - PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $30,000/yr
This program offers advanced research and clinical training in various areas of psychology, preparing students for academic, research, or clinical practice.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychologist, University Professor, Researcher
Scholarships & Tuition at George Washington University
Annual tuition for international students: $64,700 – $64,700/year
✅ George Washington University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of George Washington University
- National Ranking: #59 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #358
- Times Higher Education (THE): #201
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #301
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at George Washington University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Average class size: 29
Key Highlights
- Federally chartered since 1821
- R1: Very High Research Activity
- Elliott School of International Affairs
- Diverse international community
- Prime D.C. Foggy Bottom location
- City as extended classroom
Accreditation
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
- ABET, Inc.
- AACSB International
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design Commission on Accreditation
- Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc.
- Council for Interior Design Accreditation
- American Chemical Society
- Council on Education for Public Health
- Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
- American Bar Association (ABA)
- Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)
- American Psychological Association (APA)
Notable Alumni
- Colin Powell
- Kerry Washington
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
- J. Edgar Hoover
- John Foster Dulles
Frequently Asked Questions about George Washington University
What is George Washington University?
George Washington University is a private non-profit university located in Washington, United States. It has approximately 25,400 students, with 11% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at George Washington University?
Tuition fees at George Washington University for international students range from $64,700 – $64,700/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for George Washington University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 90. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 3.96. Application fee: $80. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: January 5.
What language are courses taught in at George Washington University?
Courses at George Washington University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does George Washington University offer?
George Washington University offers 30 programs: 12 Bachelor's, 9 Master's, and 9 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is George Washington University ranked?
#59 in United States · QS World #358 · THE World #201 · ARWU #301.
Does George Washington University offer scholarships?
Yes, George Washington University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does George Washington University provide visa support?
Yes, George Washington University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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