George Washington University (GWU)

The George Washington University, located in the heart of Washington, D.C., offers students an education with a global impact. GW students put their knowledge in action through invaluable learning experiences in the classroom and across the capital region, community service to our neighbors, internships at organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small start-ups, and study abroad opportunities around the world.

As a comprehensive global research university, GW offers majors in business, engineering, fine arts, the humanities, international affairs, public health, and sciences through seven undergraduate schools and colleges. No matter your major, your education will be deeply connected to our location in D.C.

Our nearly 10,000 undergraduates actively engage the city and the world through hands-on learning experiences, where they study alongside faculty experts, policy leaders and extraordinary individuals in every discipline to shape global progress and define the issues that will shape the present and future. Our graduates are ready to change the world. Are you?

Our nearly 10,000 undergraduate students come from all across the U.S. and more than 130 countries. They are driven to succeed and make the best of the plentiful opportunities available to them at GW and in DC. Our dining plan allows students the chance to explore the many international cuisines available around the District or to buy groceries to make a meal in their residence hall. GW requires students to live on campus for their first 3 years, giving them solid footing for life after graduation.

GW students participate in more than 450 clubs, organizations and community groups. Student-produced events provide a chance to build community, enjoy entertainment, and explore a variety of cultures. Roughly a third of the student body participates in Greek Life, which includes social, professional and honorary chapters. Club sports and intramural teams supplement GW's 20 NCAA Division I athletic teams.

Many GW students “are very politically engaged and stay informed on current events.” While many report that students are “more left-leaning,” others say that they “range on the political spectrum.” A large part of the student body is international, and “many are upper class, white, and from the Northeast.” Most here “are extremely career and internship-oriented, for the best and worst,” and “there is a very big LinkedIn culture here to take the most classes, get the best internships, double major, network, etc.” Still, many find this creates a “healthy form of competition and self-motivation,” and many are “hoping to make some large contribution beyond working in the private sector.” This is a place where “it is easy to find academically and career-driven friends who will lift you up,” and most are “welcoming and willing to understand others’ perspectives on life.” They also find time to stop and smell the roses, and one says, “It’s a great place to be while you’re young and looking for opportunities.”

The pre-professional nature of GW means that “people take their classes very seriously [and] spend a lot of time studying,” but as one says, “We still like to have fun.” In-dorm socializing, like movie and crafts nights, are a classic, and “the student organizations are very active and great opportunities to make friends and build community.” Since the campus is centrally located, “there is so much to do, from ice skating [in] Georgetown, going to the Wharf, [to] catching sports games like the Capitals or Nationals.” There “is always some kind of event going on in the city—the list is truly endless, from festivals, museum parties, thrifting pop-ups, food markets, concerts, dance classes, and more.” Many students make the most of DC’s public transportation, “utilizing our student Metro passes and getting to know the city better.” For those who prefer to travel on foot, “there are at least nine free major museums within walking distance as well as some of the best parks in the country.” One appreciative student says, “Being in DC is a truly incredible experience, and I think many of us are incredibly grateful to be spending such pivotal years of our lives here.”