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Georgetown University

Washington, DC | Private Nonprofit | University

Georgetown University is a private nonprofit university in Washington, DC ranked #133 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of A-, enrolling about 7,462 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 13.1%. Students most often pursue Accounting and Related Services and Computer Science.

Academically, students benefit from a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, 97.1% first-year retention, and 94.3% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.

Families typically invest $39,433, about $22,435 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -47.2%, roughly 132.5 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $83,222. That's about $39,534 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community.

A-
Ranking
#133 of 6,272
How We Rank Schools Most students finishHigher pay after collegeClose mentorship
At a Glance
Ranking
#133 of 6,272 (Top 2.1%)
Tuition
$65,081
Net Price
$39,433
4-Year Tuition
$260,324
Acceptance Rate
13.1%
Transfer Rate
0.0%
Student Population
7,462
Student-Faculty
11:1
Graduation Rate
94.3%
Retention Rate
97.1%
6-Yr Earnings
$83,222
ROI
-47.2%

Who is Georgetown University Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Students who thrive with close mentoring
Students aiming for strong salaries
Momentum seekers needing high retention
Graduation-focused planners
Students seeking strong career outcomes
Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#133 of 6,272
Top 2.1% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
93.3 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
4.67 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
A+
#24 of 6,272
Affordability
D+
#1,931 of 6,272
Support
A-
#117 of 6,272
Career Outcomes
A
#96 of 6,272

Georgetown University graduates 94.3% of students within six years and keeps 97.1% of first-year students. Affordability earns a D+ compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

Can you afford it?
Depends on income
$5,340-$57,166 annual net price based on family income.
Will you graduate?
Highly likely
94.3% finish within six years. 87.0% complete in four years.
Will you get a job?
Highly likely
75.1% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings six years after entry are $83,222. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use Georgetown University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$338,784
$84,696 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$177,448
$39,433 × 4.5 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.5 years | 4-Year Rate: 87.0% | 6-Year Rate: 94.3%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 87.0% and six-year completion is 94.3%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$84,696
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$39,433
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

Cost of Undergraduate Attendance

Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.

View cost of attendance line items
Costs to Consider Price
Tuition and Fees $65,081
Books and Supplies $1,200
On-Campus Room and Board $19,750
On-Campus Other Expenses $2,710
Total On-Campus Cost $84,696

Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.

Students Receiving Aid

Pell Grant
10.3%
Federal Loan
0.0%

Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.

EDsmart Insight: About 10.3% of Georgetown University students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.

$0 - $30,000
$5,340
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$8,750
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$13,464
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$26,491
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$57,166
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $5,340 to $57,166 depending on family income. Use Georgetown University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$24,030
$30K-$48K families
~$39,375
$48K-$75K families
~$60,588
$75K-$110K families
~$119,210
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $26,491/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $57,166/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
-47.2%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • 6-Year Median Earnings $83,222
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $83,222
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
  • Average Student Debt $13,500
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 88.2%
  • Employment Rate 75.1%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for Georgetown University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.

Graduates earn a median of $83,222 six years after enrollment — roughly 90% above the national median.
Payback Period
2.13 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

Georgetown University vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Georgetown University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Georgetown University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: While Georgetown University graduates earn $83,222 median, the -47.2% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
13.1%
Highly Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 700-770
  • SAT Math 690-780
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite 32-34
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 7,462
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Retention Rate 97.1%
  • Graduation Rate 94.3%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 11:1

How to Get Into Georgetown University

1. Meet Academic Requirements: Georgetown University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.

2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.

3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 13.1%, Georgetown University is highly selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.

4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.

Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.

EDsmart Insight: Georgetown University's 13.1% acceptance rate makes it highly selective. Strong test scores, GPA, and a well-rounded application are essential. Early application can improve your chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1390 and 1550 on the SAT.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Georgetown University undergraduates. Political Science and Government, International Relations and National Security Stud, and Finance and Financial Management Services draw the most students.

  • Political Science and Government 12.7%
  • International Relations and National Security Stud 11.4%
  • Finance and Financial Management Services 9.1%
  • Economics 8.1%
  • Psychology, General 4.4%
  • Management Information Systems and Services 3.9%
See more majors
  • English Language and Literature, General 3.7%
  • International Business 3.5%

Highest Earning Programs

Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)

  • 1. Accounting and Related Services $165,279
  • 2. Computer Science $162,419
  • 3. Finance and Financial Management Services $152,931
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Mathematics $138,020
  • 5. Management Information Systems and Services $135,935
  • 6. Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $119,188
  • 7. Science, Technology and Society $115,200
  • 8. International Business $114,222
  • 9. Marketing $107,915
  • 10. Business Administration, Management and Operations $95,328

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $197,197
  • 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $175,402
  • 3. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Master's Degree) $173,832
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies (Master's Degree) $169,366
  • 5. Law (First Professional Degree) $163,738
  • 6. Real Estate (Master's Degree) $149,608
  • 7. Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree) $149,302
  • 8. Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degree) $142,699
  • 9. International Business (Master's Degree) $129,954
  • 10. Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degree) $126,185

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Accounting and Related Services grads earn $165,279—73% more than Business Administration, Management and Operations ($95,328). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $197,197 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Georgetown University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard

Most Popular Online Degrees

  • Law (First Professional Degree, 693 graduates)
  • Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies (Master's Degree, 648 graduates)
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree, 425 graduates)
  • International Relations and National Security Studies (Master's Degree, 301 graduates)
  • Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degree, 280 graduates)

What This School Offers Online, at a Glance

College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.

Online Bachelor's Degrees (46 programs)
  • Political Science and Government
  • International Relations and National Security Studies
  • Finance and Financial Management Services
  • Economics
  • Psychology, General
  • Management Information Systems and Services
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • International Business
  • Science, Technology and Society
  • Marketing
  • Biology, General
  • Mathematics
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Computer Science
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Sociology
  • History
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Neurobiology and Neurosciences
  • Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
  • Biological and Physical Sciences
  • Area Studies
  • Public Health
  • Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Philosophy
  • Physics
  • Anthropology
  • Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Religion/Religious Studies
  • East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Music
  • Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
  • Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Medieval and Renaissance Studies
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
  • International/Global Studies
Online Master's Degrees (61 programs)
  • Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • International Relations and National Security Studies
  • Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
  • Public Policy Analysis
  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Area Studies
  • Economics
  • Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
  • Intelligence, Command Control and Information Operations
  • Homeland Security
  • Computational Science
  • Science, Technology and Society
  • Political Science and Government
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Biotechnology
  • Statistics
  • Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
  • International Business
  • Public Health
  • Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
  • City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
  • Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
  • Journalism
  • History
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Educational/Instructional Media Design
  • Computer Science
  • Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
  • Neurobiology and Neurosciences
  • Museology/Museum Studies
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • Education, General
  • Chemistry
  • Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
  • Physics
  • Hospitality Administration/Management
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
  • Public Administration
  • Gerontology
  • Religion/Religious Studies
  • Philosophy
  • Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
  • Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
  • Psychology, General
  • Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Medical Illustration and Informatics
  • Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
  • Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
  • Biology, General
  • Bioethics/Medical Ethics
  • Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research
  • Management Information Systems and Services
Online Doctoral Degrees (26 programs)
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Chemistry
  • Neurobiology and Neurosciences
  • Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
  • History
  • Economics
  • Political Science and Government
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Philosophy
  • Biology, General
  • Religion/Religious Studies
  • Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
  • Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
  • Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Physics
  • Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
  • Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Computer Science
  • Public Health
  • Psychology, General
  • Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
  • Area Studies
  • Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (2 programs)
  • Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (4 programs)
  • Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
  • Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
  • Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions
  • Computer Science
Online First Professional Degrees (6 programs)
  • Law
  • Medicine
  • Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
  • Neurobiology and Neurosciences
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 7,462
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Male Students 41.5%
  • Female Students 58.5%
  • Caucasian 48.5%
  • Asian 15.1%
  • Hispanic 6.2%
  • Black 5.1%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 10.3%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Georgetown University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of Georgetown University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Georgetown University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
92.3%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
94.7%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
2.4 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Georgetown University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: Georgetown University has a diverse student body, with 48.5% identifying as White. About 10.3% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Georgetown University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
92.3%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
94.7%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
2.4 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Georgetown University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

Georgetown University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -47.2% ROI. Ranked #133 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.

The $39,433 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $83,222 median earnings. With 94.3% graduating within six years and 97.1% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.

Private University Value: Georgetown University's Positioning

With a A- grade and #133 ranking, Georgetown University competes in the crowded regional private university market.

The Private University Premium: At $39,433 annually, Georgetown University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 97.1% retention rate suggests students value this environment.

Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $27,603 achieve particularly strong value.

Cost-Benefit Reality: The -47.2% ROI and $83,222 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $29,433+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.

Competitive Standing: Georgetown University ranks #133 of 6272 institutions, with 962 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.

Key Takeaways

  • 94.3% six-year graduation rate sits 31.8 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 97.1% first-year retention is 20.3 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • -47.2% return on investment is 132.5 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $83,222 run about 90% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
  • Average net price of $39,433 is roughly $22,315 higher than the national median of $17,118.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 11:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 97.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 75.1% employment rate within three years sits 6.9 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Average net price of $39,433 is about $22,315 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
  • Pell participation at 10.3% trails the national share by 28.5 points, so equity work remains important.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis

Georgetown University, a private nonprofit university in Washington, DC, secures a A- grade in our latest review. It appears at #133 in EDsmart's national list Category results include Completion (A+), Support (A-), Career Outcomes (A), and Affordability (D+).

Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.

97.1% of learners come back after year one while 94.3% complete the degree within six years. The reported ROI is -47.2%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.

Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.

EDsmart Financial Snapshot

Families pay about $39,433 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $84,696.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $45,263 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $13,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 10.3% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.

Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.

EDsmart Career Snapshot

Median earnings come in near $83,222 six years after enrollment. That sits about 90% above the national median.

Employment outcomes report about 75.1% of alumni working within three years.

EDsmart lists the ROI at -47.2%, offering a quick read on value.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

13.1% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.

The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.

Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Georgetown University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.

Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.

EDsmart Verdict
4.67 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

Run the Net Price Calculator
Get your personalized cost estimate
Compare with similar schools
See how Georgetown University stacks up to alternatives
Check your major's earnings
See ROI for your specific field of study
Visit the campus
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Visit Georgetown University Website →

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Contact Information

  • AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
  • Endowment$3.21B

Data Source & Methodology