George Washington University

George Washington University (GW) is a private institution that was founded in 1821. Its urban location in downtown Washington, D.C., is ideal for fans of politics and city life. Known for its programs in international business, education, engineering, and nursing, GW promotes an immersive learning experience, where students engage in hands-on, experiential learning. Notable alumni include former Secretary of State Colin Powell, NASA astronaut Serena Maria Auñón-Chancellor, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, and Emmy Award-winning actress Kerry Washington.

Ranked 56 nationwide, GW is a selective school. Its acceptance rate is 43% and its graduation rate is 81%. GW’s tuition rate is $59,780 per year, plus fees. More than 26,000 undergraduates and postgraduates attend, representing all 50 states and Washington, D.C., plus more than 130 countries. GW offers more than 75 undergraduate majors and over 240 postgraduate programs. It follows a semester-based academic calendar.

GW’s urban campus comprises about 43 acres, which spread across the D.C. Foggy Bottom neighborhood. Historical and prominent attractions like the State Department and the National Mall are within arm’s reach. Students participate in over 400 clubs and organizations, and about 25% of students are involved in fraternities or sororities. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are required to live on campus. GW’s athletic teams, the Colonials, compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic 10 Conference. When students aren’t studying, learning or cheering on their teams, they might be taking advantage of the TRAiL program, which immerses students in the outdoors, through hiking, kayaking and horseback riding.