George Washington University
George Washington University is a private nonprofit university in Washington, DC ranked #385 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B+, enrolling about 11,182 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 47.1%. Students most often pursue Computer and Information Sciences and Finance and Financial Management Services.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, 92.2% first-year retention, and 84.0% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $36,586, about $19,588 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -51.1%, roughly 136.4 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $71,607. That's about $27,919 higher than national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
George Washington University has an acceptance rate of 47.1%, annual tuition of $67,710, average net price of $36,586, and a national rank of #385 (Grade B+), with a 84.0% six-year graduation rate, about 11,182 undergraduates, and median earnings of $71,607 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is George Washington University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
George Washington University graduates 84.0% of students within six years and keeps 92.2% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use George Washington University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
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 | $67,710 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,450 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $16,920 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $1,700 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $83,856 |
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
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 15.8% of George Washington 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.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $17,440 to $55,337 depending on family income. Use George Washington University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $28,100/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $55,337/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $71,607
- 10-Year Median Earnings $71,607
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $19,500
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 80.3%
- Employment Rate 69.9%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for George Washington 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.
George Washington University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how George Washington University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes George Washington University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While George Washington University graduates earn $71,607 median, the -51.1% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 680-750
- SAT Math 670-750
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 31-34
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 11,182
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 92.2%
- Graduation Rate 84.0%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 13:1
How to Get Into George Washington University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: George Washington 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 47.1%, George Washington University is moderately 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: George Washington University accepts 47.1% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1350 and 1500 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among George Washington University undergraduates. International Relations and National Security Stud, Political Science and Government, and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing draw the most students.
- International Relations and National Security Stud 15.6%
- Political Science and Government 9.0%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 8.8%
- Economics 5.1%
- Finance and Financial Management Services 4.4%
- Research and Experimental Psychology 4.2%
See more majors
- International Business 3.8%
- Biology, General 2.7%
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. Computer and Information Sciences, General $140,173
- 2. Finance and Financial Management Services $131,971
- 3. International Business $128,997
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Computer Science $124,419
- 5. Biomedical/Medical Engineering $114,006
- 6. Civil Engineering $113,579
- 7. Economics $104,484
- 8. Accounting and Related Services $101,290
- 9. Marketing $101,221
- 10. Human Resources Management and Services $100,004
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Human Resources Management and Services (Doctoral Degree) $204,153
- 2. Systems Engineering (Doctoral Degree) $182,661
- 3. Engineering-Related Fields (Doctoral Degree) $162,693
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $154,789
- 5. Public Health (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $147,016
- 6. Systems Engineering (Master's Degree) $146,616
- 7. Law (First Professional Degree) $142,941
- 8. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $140,883
- 9. Human Resources Management and Services (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $136,925
- 10. Engineering-Related Fields (Master's Degree) $133,602
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General grads earn $140,173—40% more than Human Resources Management and Services ($100,004). Graduate: Human Resources Management and Services programs lead with $204,153 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for George Washington 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
- International Relations and National Security Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 538 graduates)
- Law (First Professional Degree, 427 graduates)
- Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degree, 311 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 303 graduates)
- Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree, 297 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 (74 programs)â–¼
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Political Science and Government
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Economics
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- International Business
- Biology, General
- Marketing
- History
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Public Health
- Accounting and Related Services
- Mechanical Engineering
- English Language and Literature, General
- Journalism
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Statistics
- Communication and Media Studies
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Sociology
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Area Studies
- Anthropology
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Information Science/Studies
- Geography and Cartography
- Mathematics
- Real Estate
- Design and Applied Arts
- Chemistry
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Civil Engineering
- Philosophy
- Systems Engineering
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Business/Commerce, General
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Human Services, General
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Computer Engineering
- Physics
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Dance
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Archeology
- Nutrition Sciences
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Music
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Engineering, General
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Psychology, General
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Genetics
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Classical and Ancient Studies
Online Master's Degrees (66 programs)â–¼
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Computer Science
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Applied Mathematics
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Public Policy Analysis
- Accounting and Related Services
- Statistics
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Public Administration
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Economics
- Museology/Museum Studies
- Mechanical Engineering
- Design and Applied Arts
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Anthropology
- History
- Civil Engineering
- Physics
- Data Processing
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Geography and Cartography
- Computer Engineering
- Area Studies
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Communication and Media Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Criminology
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Philosophy
- Journalism
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Molecular Medicine
- Landscape Architecture
- Social Sciences, Other
- Psychology, General
- International/Global Studies
- Genetics
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Dance
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Biotechnology
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- International Business
Online Doctoral Degrees (42 programs)â–¼
- Computer Science
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Public Policy Analysis
- Mechanical Engineering
- Economics
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- Special Education and Teaching
- Molecular Medicine
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Computer Engineering
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Public Health
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Statistics
- Physics
- History
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Civil Engineering
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Biology, General
- Mathematics
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Chemistry
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Genetics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Area Studies
- Public Administration
- Psychology, General
- English Language and Literature, General
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Anthropology
- Accounting and Related Services
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Education, General
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (55 programs)â–¼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- International Business
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- International and Comparative Education
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Geography and Cartography
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Special Education and Teaching
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Real Estate
- Political Science and Government
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Mechanical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Computer Science
- Biology, General
- Applied Mathematics
- Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Systems Engineering
- Sustainability Studies
- Statistics
- Science, Technology and Society
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Real Estate Development
- Public Policy Analysis
- Psychology, General
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Mathematics
- Landscape Architecture
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Engineering, Other
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Economics
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Design and Applied Arts
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- Computer Engineering
- Community Organization and Advocacy
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Civil Engineering
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Chemistry
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Area Studies
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (1 program)â–¼
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Online First Professional Degrees (4 programs)â–¼
- Law
- Medicine
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 11,182
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 36.3%
- Female Students 63.7%
- Caucasian 47.8%
- Asian 15.7%
- Hispanic 13.7%
- Black 7.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 15.8%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects George Washington University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of George Washington University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does George Washington University support students from different economic backgrounds?
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 George Washington University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: George Washington University has a diverse student body, with 47.8% identifying as White. Women make up 63.7% of undergraduates. About 15.8% 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 George Washington University support students from different economic backgrounds?
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 George Washington University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
George Washington University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -51.1% ROI. Ranked #385 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $36,586 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $71,607 median earnings. With 84.0% graduating within six years and 92.2% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: George Washington University's Positioning
With a B+ grade and #385 ranking, George Washington University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $36,586 annually, George Washington University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 92.2% 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 $25,610 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -51.1% ROI and $71,607 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $26,586+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: George Washington University ranks #385 of 6101 institutions, with 1090 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
- 84.0% six-year graduation rate sits 21.5 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 92.2% first-year retention is 15.4 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -51.1% return on investment is 136.4 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $71,607 run about 64% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $36,586 is roughly $19,189 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 13:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 92.2% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 69.9% employment rate within three years sits 1.7 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $36,586 is about $19,189 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 15.8% trails the national share by 23.3 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
George Washington University is a private nonprofit university based in Washington, DC and earns a B+ overall grade. It stands at #385 among 6101 schools Category results include Completion (A), Support (A-), Career Outcomes (A-), and Affordability (C-).
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.
92.2% of learners come back after year one while 84.0% complete the degree within six years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -51.1%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
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 $36,586 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $83,856.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $47,270 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $19,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 15.8% 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 $71,607 six years after enrollment. This is roughly 64% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 69.9% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about -51.1% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
47.1% 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 George Washington 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.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is George Washington University's acceptance rate?
George Washington University's acceptance rate is 47.1%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does George Washington University cost?
At George Washington University, listed tuition and fees are $67,710 per year, and the average net price after aid is $36,586. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is George Washington University's ranking?
George Washington University ranks #385 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is George Washington University's graduation rate?
At George Washington University, the six-year graduation rate is 84.0%, and first-year retention is 92.2%.
What are George Washington University's job outcomes?
Graduates of George Washington University report median earnings of $71,607 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is George Washington University's student population?
George Washington University enrolls about 11,182 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Washington, DC 20052
- Website www.gwu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$2.52B