George Washington University emblem

George Washington University

Washington, United States • Founded 1821 • QS 2027 #381 =

Updated Jun 2026

Overview

Acronyms: GWU
Founded: 1821
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Rankings:
QS World University Rankings 2027 #381 = Times Higher Education 2025 #201-250 ARWU (Shanghai) 2026 #301-400 CWTS Leiden 2025 #468 SCImago 2026 #318
Motto: Deus Nobis Fiducia
Colours: Buff and blue
Mascot: George
George Washington University principal campus
1 / 5

Established in 1821, the George Washington University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large city of Washington (population range of 500,000-1,000,000 inhabitants), District of Columbia.

This institution also has a branch campus in Mount Vernon and Ashburn. Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, George Washington University (GWU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution.

George Washington University (GWU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 203-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.

The acceptance rate range is 50-59% making this US higher education organization an averagely selective institution.

International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. GWU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

George Washington University's physical location and the contact details prospective students typically need before applying or visiting. Channels listed below come from the institution's published profile.

Address: 2121 I Street NW
Postal Code: 20052
Phone: +1 (202) 994 1000
Fax: +1 (202) 994 0654
Social Media:

Academic Details

George Washington University at the institutional level: enrolment, staffing, and accreditation summary. Accreditation has expiry and renewal cycles worth checking on the awarding body site for currency.

Recognition: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Total Students: 11,182
Academic Staff Range: 1,500-1,999
Campus Setting: Urban
Memberships & Networks
Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Academic Structures

George Washington University's academic backbone. Endowed schools (named after donors) may differ from general units in funding levels, scholarships available, and curriculum focus.

Unit 11 items
  • College of Professional Studies
  • Columbian College of Arts and Sciences
  • Corcoran School of the Arts and Design
  • Elliott School of International Affairs
  • GW Law School
  • Graduate School of Education and Human Development
  • Milken Institute School of Public Health
  • School of Business
  • School of Engineering and Applied Science
  • School of Medicine and Health Sciences
  • School of Nursing

Programs Offered

Look through George Washington University's programmes by level or filter for keywords. Programme-level scholarships exist alongside institution-wide ones; the programme page typically lists them.

306 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

How to apply to George Washington University

The standard application path for George Washington University, broken into five practical steps with the documents and channels you will need at each stage.

  1. 1
    Find a programme that fits your goals

    Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. George Washington University offers 306 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.

  2. 2
    Confirm you meet the requirements

    Each programme at George Washington University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.

  3. 3
    Assemble your application package

    Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.

  4. 4
    Submit your application

    Apply directly via George Washington University's online portal at www.gwu.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.

  5. 5
    Contact admissions and follow up

    After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (202) 994 1000. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about George Washington University

Concise answers to the most-searched questions about George Washington University, useful as a quick orientation before exploring the rest of the profile.

When did George Washington University open?

George Washington University traces its founding to 1821 (approximately 205 years ago).

Where is George Washington University located?

George Washington University is located in Washington, United States.

Is George Washington University a public or private institution?

George Washington University operates as a private institution.

What is the student enrolment at George Washington University?

Student enrolment at George Washington University is around 11,182.

What is George Washington University's ranking?

George Washington University is ranked QS 2027 #381 =.

How many faculties does George Washington University have?

The institution comprises 11 academic units.

Who recognises George Washington University?

Yes, George Washington University is recognised by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

How do I find George Washington University online?

You can find George Washington University online at www.gwu.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

Alumni network strength of the United States's national leaders compounds over time. The peer-graduate networks at top institutions often outweigh academic differences in long-run career outcomes.

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

George Washington University and the universities below are both members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Faculties at nearby universities

These universities are located near George Washington University, listed below for students comparing options by location.

Where Else to Study Education & Teaching

These universities in the United States also offer Education & Teaching programmes, alongside George Washington University.

Universities Compared with George Washington University

These universities are of a comparable scale to George Washington University.

Browse all articles →

Spotted something outdated or missing?

Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.

Explore More Universities in United States

Free calculators and converters to plan your study-abroad journey.

Latest Articles

Fresh guides and advice for studying abroad.

View all →

Compare Compare