George Washington University is a private research university located just steps from the White House in Washington, D.C. Its Elliott School of International Affairs and proximity to the centers of American government provide unparalleled opportunities for internships and careers in policy, politics, and international relations.
Mascot: Revolutionary
Notable Alumni
Kerry Washington (actress, star of Scandal)•Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (iconic First Lady)•Red Auerbach (legendary Celtics coach)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
GW's campus is really D.C. itself — students define themselves more by their internships on the Hill than their major, and the social scene blends campus events with the city's nightlife. Greek life involves about 14% but the dominant social currency is your resume, not your party invites. School spirit is low because everyone's busy building a resume, not painting their face for a game nobody attends.
Urban campus in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood with elegant townhouse-style buildings, though the setting blends into the surrounding city streetscape rather than forming a cohesive green campus.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
The open urban campus sees mostly property crime — about 90% of incidents are theft, auto break-ins, and burglary. GWPD provides 24/7 coverage.
Foggy Bottom is consistently rated one of DC's safest neighborhoods with very low violent crime, though property theft has increased in recent years.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Mon-Fri plus select Saturdays, multiple daily timeslots
Duration: ~60 minutes for Foggy Bottom campus tour
Student-led tours depart from the University Student Center. Max 3 guests per student (4 total per party). Welcome Center open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri. Group visits (10-50 students) available with 2 weeks notice.
Book a TourSelf-guided tour booklet available at the Admissions Welcome Center, plus an augmented reality tour option. Explore GW virtual platform also available for navigating campus and surrounding DC area remotely.
Tour ResourcesSeptember through November or March through April when classes are in session and DC weather is pleasant. Avoid August (sweltering and students haven't returned) and winter break. Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) is magical but crowded.
Driving: University Student Center Garage (800 21st St NW, enter from H St) or Science & Engineering Hall Garage (H St between 22nd & 23rd), $23/day. Strongly recommend Metro instead — Foggy Bottom/GWU station (Orange/Blue/Silver lines) is right on campus. Nearest airports: Reagan National (DCA), 15 min by Metro; Dulles (IAD), ~60 min; BWI, ~75 min.
Location
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