American University
Washington D.C., United States
American University
Washington, D.C., United States
Founded
1893
Institution Type
Private Research University
Total Students
13,000+
Acceptance Rate
47%
Discover American University: A Legacy of Public Service in the Nation's Capital
Discover American University: A Legacy of Public Service in the Nation's Capital
American University (AU) is a private, student-centered research institution chartered by an Act of Congress in 1893 at the urging of Methodist bishop John Fletcher Hurst. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., AU was established to fulfill George Washington's vision of a national university dedicated to training public servants and promoting pragmatic idealism.
Today, AU is classified as an R1 Doctoral University with very high research activity, offering over 160 academic programs across eight schools and colleges. The university enrolls a diverse student body from all 50 U.S. states and over 140 countries, with nearly one-fifth of students being international, creating a truly global learning environment.
Strategically situated in a beautiful residential neighborhood near Embassy Row, AU's 90-acre campus combines the advantages of a traditional college setting with unparalleled access to the political, cultural, and professional opportunities of the nation's capital. Approximately 85% of students complete at least one internship before graduating, leveraging D.C.'s unique ecosystem of government agencies, nonprofits, and international organizations.
Key Milestones
- 1893: Chartered by an Act of Congress and founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church to create a national university in Washington, D.C.
- 1914: Officially opened its doors, initially offering only graduate-level instruction to its first class of 28 students.
- 1949: Merged with the Washington College of Law, which had been founded in 1896 as one of the first law schools to admit women.
- 1984: Established the School of Communication, reflecting the growth of the journalism program from its earliest courses in the 1920s.
Academic Structure and Schools at American University
Academic Structure and Schools at American University
American University is organized into eight schools and colleges that collectively offer over 160 academic programs, including 71 bachelor's degrees, 87 master's degrees, and 10 doctoral degrees, along with JD, LLM, and SJD programs. AU's interdisciplinary approach and Washington, D.C. location allow students to integrate classroom learning with real-world policy, research, and professional experiences.
School of International Service (SIS)
One of the top-ranked schools for international relations in the United States, SIS prepares students for careers in diplomacy, global development, and international affairs through rigorous academic programs and experiential learning.
- International Relations
- Global Governance, Politics, and Security
- International Development
College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)
The largest academic unit at AU, CAS offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, fostering critical thinking and interdisciplinary inquiry.
- Political Science
- Economics
- Biology
Kogod School of Business
The Kogod School of Business provides AACSB-accredited undergraduate and graduate business education with a focus on leadership, analytics, and sustainability, preparing students for careers in the global economy.
- Business Administration (BSBA)
- MBA
- Finance
School of Communication (SOC)
SOC offers programs in journalism, public relations, film and media arts, and strategic communication, equipping students with the skills to lead in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
- Journalism and Public Affairs
- Film and Media Arts
- Public Communication
School of Public Affairs (SPA)
Founded in 1934 to train federal employees in public administration, SPA is consistently ranked among the top public affairs schools in the nation, offering programs in government, policy, and justice.
- Public Administration (MPA)
- Justice, Law, and Criminology
- Political Science
Washington College of Law (WCL)
One of the first law schools in the U.S. to admit women, WCL merged with AU in 1949 and offers JD, LLM, and SJD programs with a strong focus on international law, human rights, and public interest advocacy.
- Juris Doctor (JD)
- LLM in International Law
- SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science)
Admission Requirements for American University
Admission Requirements for American University
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PlatformCommon Application or Coalition Application
- GPA (Middle 50%)3.75 - 4.0 (weighted)
- SAT Score (Middle 50%)1290 - 1450
- ACT Score (Middle 50%)29 - 32
- English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, PTE, or Cambridge accepted
Graduate Admission
- ApplicationOnline via AU Graduate Application Portal
- Degree RequirementBachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- RecommendationsTwo to three letters of recommendation (varies by program)
- Standardized TestsGRE/GMAT requirements vary by program; many programs are test-optional
Binding Early Decision I and non-binding Early Action deadline for undergraduate applicants seeking an early admissions decision.
Final deadline for undergraduate regular decision applications. All supporting materials must be received by this date.
Graduate application deadlines differ by school and program. Priority deadlines for fall admission typically range from January to March.
Strongly recommended deadline for international students applying for spring semester (January start) to allow time for visa processing.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships at American University
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships at American University
As a private research university in Washington, D.C., American University's tuition reflects the resources and opportunities available to students. AU is committed to affordability and access, with a financial aid budget exceeding USD 153 million. The university offers merit-based scholarships for both domestic and international students.
| Expense Category | Undergraduate (Annual) | Graduate (Per Credit) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | USD 60,207 | USD 2,080 per credit |
| Mandatory Fees | USD 1,100 | Varies by program |
| Room & Board | USD 21,060 | N/A (estimated separately) |
| Books & Supplies | USD 1,200 | USD 1,200 |
| Total | ~USD 83,567 | Contact the university for program-specific totals |
AU Emerging Global Leader (EGL) Scholarship
A prestigious full-tuition scholarship covering all billable AU expenses (tuition, room, and board) for two international students, plus up to eight additional partial EGL scholarships valued at up to USD 40,000 per year.
- Coverage: Full tuition, room, and board (full award); up to USD 40,000/year (partial)
- Eligibility: International students requiring F-1 or J-1 visa
- Renewable: Yes, for up to four years based on academic performance
Merit-Based Partial Scholarships
AU offers competitive merit scholarships ranging from USD 8,000 to USD 25,000 per academic year for international students, awarded at the time of admission based on academic achievement, leadership, and community service.
- Award Range: USD 8,000 - USD 25,000 per year
- Application: No separate application required; considered at time of admission
- Renewable: Yes, for all four years based on continued academic performance
Campus and Facilities at American University
Campus and Facilities at American University
American University's 90-acre main campus is located in the Spring Valley and Tenleytown neighborhoods of Northwest Washington, D.C. The campus is an accredited arboretum, blending traditional collegiate architecture with modern facilities in one of the safest and most beautiful residential areas of the capital.
The Jack I. and Dorothy G. Bender Library serves as the main academic library, part of the Washington Research Library Consortium providing access to millions of resources.
AU's newly opened athletics and recreational facility is the university's first net-zero and LEED Platinum-certified building, featuring championship-grade athletic venues.
The central quad provides a gathering space for students surrounded by historic buildings, green spaces, and the university's accredited arboretum.
Housing & Dining
On-Campus Housing
AU accommodates approximately 4,200 students in on-campus housing. A two-year residency requirement applies to freshmen and sophomores beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year.
- Traditional residence halls and suite-style options
- Living-learning communities for shared academic interests
- East Campus housing in the Wesley Heights neighborhood
Dining Services
AU offers comprehensive meal plan options with dining locations across campus. The university prides itself on a generous meal equivalency program compared to peer institutions.
- Multiple dining halls and cafes across campus
- Flexible meal plans with equivalency options
- Diverse cuisine options including vegetarian and halal
Student Life at American University
Student Life at American University
Student life at American University is vibrant and deeply connected to the opportunities of Washington, D.C. With over 150 recognized student organizations, robust athletic programs, and a politically engaged campus culture, AU students are actively involved both on campus and throughout the nation's capital.
Washington, D.C.: Your Classroom Beyond Campus
Washington, D.C.: Your Classroom Beyond Campus
Living and Learning in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is far more than the seat of the U.S. government — it is a vibrant, multicultural city with free Smithsonian museums, a thriving arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and unparalleled access to internships at government agencies, embassies, international organizations, and leading nonprofits. AU's campus is just minutes from Embassy Row, the White House, and Capitol Hill.
Internship Capital
D.C. offers more internship opportunities per capita than any other U.S. city, with access to Congress, the World Bank, IMF, State Department, and hundreds of think tanks and NGOs.
Cultural Richness
Home to the Smithsonian Institution's free museums, the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the National Mall, and Arlington National Cemetery, D.C. offers endless cultural exploration.
Metro Accessibility
AU students receive an unlimited Metrorail and bus pass, providing easy access to all corners of the city and surrounding areas in Maryland and Virginia.
Gateway to the East Coast
Washington, D.C. is well-connected by Amtrak, bus, and air to major cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, as well as beaches in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where AU Graduates Work
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
ISSS provides comprehensive support for international students including visa advising, immigration compliance, cultural adjustment programming, and orientation for new international arrivals.
AU offers a pathway program designed to prepare students for degree-seeking status, helping international students build academic English skills and adapt to the American university system.
AU's Career Center assists international students with resume building, interview preparation, and navigating U.S. work authorization options including CPT and OPT for F-1 visa holders.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
American University: Worldwide Rankings
American University: Worldwide Rankings
American University continues to strengthen its position in both national and global university rankings, reflecting its strong academic programs, employer reputation, and commitment to sustainability and international diversity. AU is particularly recognized for its programs in international relations, public affairs, and study abroad.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| International Law | EduRank | #1 in the U.S. |
| Public Affairs | U.S. News & World Report | #9 in the U.S. |
| International Relations | Foreign Policy Magazine | Top 10 in the U.S. |
| Economics | EduRank | #87 in the U.S. |
Features
Located in the nation’s capital, offering strong programs in International Service, Public Affairs, Communication, and Law.\nFederally chartered private university with a research focus and strong global engagement.\nDiverse student body with a significant percentage of international students.\nKnown for internship opportunities and connections to government, NGOs, media, and business sectors.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
October - January
Location
4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, United States
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