Mason's beautiful 670-acre residential campus in Fairfax, Virginia is just 24 kilometers outside of Washington, D.C.
About
From the School
Contact & Visit
Campus Visits Contact
4400 University Drive, MSN 3A4
Fairfax, VA 22030-4444
Experience College Life
Aquatic and Fitness Center
Center for the Arts
Eagle Bank Arena
Fenwick Library
Smithsonian Institution Museums
National Monuments: Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Shenandoah National Park
The Washington DC metro area provides plenty of dining and entertainment options that students at Mason take full advantage of via the free shuttle to the metro.
Campus Tours
Dates: Year-round
Times: Varies
Average Length: 1 hour
On Campus Interview
Faculty and Coach Visits
Class Visits
Overnight Dorm Stays
Transportation
Admissions
Admissions
Overall
From The School
Freshman General Admission Requirements
The following factors are evaluated in the decision process:
- Cumulative high school grade point average (GPA) for work completed in grades 9-12 along with level of difficulty of courses selected, particularly in core academic courses. Request your high school send an official copy of your transcript.
- SAT or ACT scores George Mason University uses self-reported SAT and/or ACT test scores throughout the initial admissions process to make both admissions and scholarship decisions.
- Secondary School Report and counselor recommendations. We suggest sending two letters of recommendation, one from your high school counselor and one from a teacher.
- An optional, but strongly encouraged Personal Statement of approximately 250 words explaining to the office of Admissions why YOU want to go to college. Tell us about yourself and your experiences that have led to this decision.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores from non-native English-speaking applicants to supplement other standardized test results. If you do not speak English at home you are highly encouraged to take the TOEFL.
- Extracurricular Activities listed on your online application, common application, or sent within an activity sheet or resume
Important Deadlines
Information about important application deadlines.
Deadline Type | Date | Decisions Mail |
---|---|---|
Freshman Non-Binding Early Action Deadline* | November 1 | December 15 |
Freshman Honors College Consideration* | November 1 | December 15 |
Freshman University Scholars Consideration* | November 1 | Mid-February |
Freshman Merit-Based Scholarship Consideration* | November 1 | December 15 |
Freshman Regular Decision Deadline* | February 1 | Late March |
Mason Financial Aid Deadline | November 1 | Mid-February |
Freshman Priority Application Deadline (for Spring Semester) | October 1 | November 1 |
*All freshman applicants who apply to Mason by 11:59 pm EST on November 1 will automatically be considered for merit-based scholarships and our non-binding, Early Action decision.
Overview
SAT & ACT Test Scores
Testing Policies
Deadlines
Early Action — November 1
Regular — August 24
Other Admission Factors
Rigor of Secondary School Record
Academic GPA
Selectivity Rating
Get a personalized plan for a competitive application from an admissions expert.
Learn MoreAcademics
Academics
Overall
From The School
Academic Programs
Mason's 10 colleges and schools provide the opportunity to craft your own course of study. Whether you're passionate about a certain subject or want to explore your options, we'll provide the advice and guidance to find the best fit.
- Arts, Media and Communication
- Business, Economics, and Entrepreneurship
- Computing
- Education and Social Service
- Engineering, Technology, and Design
- Government, Policy, and International Affairs
- Health, Medicine, and Well-Being
- People, Culture, and Behavior
- Science and Math
Mason's Honors College provides talented students with unique academic and social environments that enhance the college experience. Selected from the most outstanding students invited to the Honors College University Scholars are awarded scholarships covering the full cost of tuition over four years.
Majors and Degrees Offered
Mason offers more than 200 degrees and numerous minors and certificate programs to customize your education and meet your career and personal goals.
AGRICULTURE, AGRICULTURE OPERATIONS, AND RELATED SCIENCES.
Agricultural Business and Management.
AREA, ETHNIC, CULTURAL, GENDER, AND GROUP STUDIES.
Latin American Studies.
Russian Studies.
BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES.
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.
Neuroscience.
BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, MARKETING, AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES.
Accounting.
Business Administration and Management, General.
Finance, General.
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other.
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.
Tourism and Travel Services Management.
COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES/TECHNICIANS AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics and Special Effects.
COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
Computer Science.
Information Technology.
EDUCATION.
Health Teacher Education.
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.
ENGINEERING.
Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering.
Civil Engineering, General.
Computer Engineering, General.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Mechanical Engineering.
Systems Engineering.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS.
Creative Writing.
English Language and Literature, General.
Rhetoric and Composition.
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES/HUMAN SCIENCES.
Human Development and Family Studies, General.
FOREIGN LANGUAGES, LITERATURES, AND LINGUISTICS.
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.
HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Athletic Training/Trainer.
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist.
Clinical Nutrition/Nutritionist.
Community Health and Preventive Medicine.
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other.
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.
Rehabilitation Science.
HISTORY.
History, General.
HOMELAND SECURITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, FIREFIGHTING AND RELATED PROTECTIVE SERVICES.
Criminal Justice/Police Science.
Critical Infrastructure Protection.
Forensic Science and Technology.
LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, GENERAL STUDIES AND HUMANITIES.
General Studies.
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS.
Mathematics, General.
Statistics, General.
MULTI/INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES.
Mathematics and Computer Science.
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution.
Sustainability Studies.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION.
Environmental Science.
PARKS, RECREATION, LEISURE, AND FITNESS STUDIES.
Kinesiology and Exercise Science.
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES.
Philosophy.
Religion/Religious Studies.
PHYSICAL SCIENCES.
Astronomy.
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General.
Chemistry, General.
Geology/Earth Science, General.
Physics, General.
PSYCHOLOGY.
Psychology, General.
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONS.
Public Administration.
Social Work.
SOCIAL SCIENCES.
Anthropology.
Economics, General.
Geographic Information Science and Cartography.
Geography.
International Relations and Affairs.
Political Science and Government, Other.
Sociology.
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS.
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.
Art/Art Studies, General.
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.
Dance, General.
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.
Graphic Design.
Music Performance, General.
Visual and Performing Arts, General.
Degrees
Bachelor's
Doctoral
Doctoral/Professional
Doctoral/Research
Master's
Post-Bachelor's certificate
Post-Master's certificate
Faculty and Class Information
Graduation Rates
Majors
-
AGRICULTURE, AGRICULTURE OPERATIONS, AND RELATED SCIENCES.
Agricultural Business and Management.
-
AREA, ETHNIC, CULTURAL, GENDER, AND GROUP STUDIES.
Latin American Studies.
Russian Studies.
-
BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES.
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.
Neuroscience.
-
BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, MARKETING, AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES.
Business Administration and Management, General.
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other.
Tourism and Travel Services Management.
-
COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES/TECHNICIANS AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics and Special Effects.
-
COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
Computer Science.
Information Technology.
-
EDUCATION.
Elementary Education and Teaching.
Health Teacher Education.
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.
Special Education and Teaching.
-
ENGINEERING.
Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering.
Civil Engineering, General.
Computer Engineering, General.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Mechanical Engineering.
Systems Engineering.
-
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS.
Creative Writing.
English Language and Literature, General.
Rhetoric and Composition.
-
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES/HUMAN SCIENCES.
Human Development and Family Studies, General.
-
FOREIGN LANGUAGES, LITERATURES, AND LINGUISTICS.
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.
-
HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist.
Clinical Nutrition/Nutritionist.
Community Health and Preventive Medicine.
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other.
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.
Rehabilitation Science.
-
HISTORY.
History, General.
-
HOMELAND SECURITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, FIREFIGHTING AND RELATED PROTECTIVE SERVICES.
Criminal Justice/Police Science.
Critical Infrastructure Protection.
-
LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, GENERAL STUDIES AND HUMANITIES.
General Studies.
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
-
MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS.
Mathematics, General.
Statistics, General.
-
MULTI/INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES.
Mathematics and Computer Science.
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution.
Sustainability Studies.
-
NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION.
Environmental Science.
-
PARKS, RECREATION, LEISURE, AND FITNESS STUDIES.
Kinesiology and Exercise Science.
-
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES.
Philosophy.
Religion/Religious Studies.
-
PHYSICAL SCIENCES.
Astronomy.
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General.
Chemistry, General.
Geology/Earth Science, General.
Physics, General.
-
PSYCHOLOGY.
Psychology, General.
-
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONS.
Public Administration.
Social Work.
-
SOCIAL SCIENCES.
Anthropology.
Economics, General.
Geographic Information Science and Cartography.
Geography.
International Relations and Affairs.
Political Science and Government, Other.
Sociology.
-
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS.
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.
Art/Art Studies, General.
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.
Dance, General.
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.
Graphic Design.
Music Performance, General.
Visual and Performing Arts, General.
Students Say
Degrees
Doctoral
Doctoral/Professional
Doctoral/Research
Master's
Post-Bachelor's certificate
Post-Master's certificate
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Regional Alumni
Coop
Experiential
Internship
Notable Faculty
Prominent Alumni
Academic Rating
Careers
Graduation Rates
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Regional Alumni
Coop
Experiential
Internship
ROI & Outcomes
Students Say
Inside the classroom, passionate professors demonstrate a willingness to adapt to the job market, involve students in research, and connect them to real-world experiences like “working with clients and gaining materials to show companies.” One student raves that their department “is amazing and really goes the extra step to help students succeed academically and career-wise.” Micro-internships, internships, and “countless opportunities for…research and mentoring” pay off: the number one way GMU graduates find jobs is by turning an internship into a permanent position. Many agree that the proximity to the D.C. area’s top companies provides a significant advantage in the job search, which merely amplifies the university’s strong alumni presence. One student is “not worried about getting a job here because I know how influential the Mason community is [in] this area.” Students surveyed by PayScale.com reported a median starting salary of $60,700, and 49 percent felt their work is making a meaningful impact.
Tuition & Aid
Tuition & Aid
Overview
From The School
Tuition, Room, Board and Fees
IN STATE VIRGINIA RESIDENT STICKER PRICE
Tuition: $9,060
Books and Supplies: $1,200
Other Fees: $3,402
Room and Board: $12,426
Other Expenses Budget: $4,196
OUT OF STATE RESIDENT STICKER PRICE
Tuition: $32,520
Books and Supplies: $1,200
Other Fees: $3,402
Room and Board: $12,426
Other Expenses Budget: $4,196
Financial Aid
TYPE AVG./STUDENT
Annual Total Grant Aid: $8,567
Pell Grant: $4,527
Federal Student Loan: $5,360
STUDENTS RECEIVING
Annual Total Grant Aid: 61%
Pell Grant: 28%
Federal Student Loan: 50%
The average reported annual net price for George Mason University for students receiving grants or scholarship aid was $18,629 in 2017/2018.
Dates
Required Forms
Financial Aid Statistics
Expenses per Academic Year
Available Aid
Need-Based Federal Pell
Need-Based Private Scholarships
Need-Based SEOG
Need-Based State Scholarships
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Financial Aid Rating
Student Body
Student Body
Overall
From The School
Truly embodying an enriched diverse community and culture, Mason continuous rises to the top of the charts as one of the most diverse schools in the nation. The diversity factor continues to play a significant role in the decision-making process for students determining what college or university they will attend. Students here at the university choose and love Mason because of the numerous opportunities it provides to get a taste of the world through interactions with individuals from all across the world.
With over 460 student organizations here at Mason, every student can find a niche, get involved, and meet new friends. There are also opportunities for team activities through Mason's intramural or club teams. Every year, Mason hosts thousands of events on campus, including theater, music, live sports, movies, comedians, and more. There is always something to do.
Student Body Profile
Demographics
Students Say
Campus Life
Campus Life
Overview
From The School
Location
We are one of the most diverse universities in the country. Our diversity has defined and shaped our culture, from how we educate our students, to our sense of responsibility in our communities, and in our world as a whole. Our students represent all races, ethnicities, nationalities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities. Hailing from 139 countries and all 50 states, the Mason Nation brings together many different ideas and perspectives that contribute to a vibrant and engaging community.
Campus Facilities & Equipment
ATHLETIC FACILITIES
With three state-of-the-art fitness centers that offer everything from an Olympicsized pool to group exercise classes, Mason's fitness resources are endless-and free for students.
The Aquatic and Fitness Center (AFC) supports a wide range of activities for the University community. Both students and members have access to a variety of fitness and well-being programs and services, including; weight training/strength gallery, cardio gallery, cycle studio, multipurpose room, locker rooms, Olympic size and recreational pool, alongside fitness and aquatic programs.
The 120,000-square foot Recreation Athletic Complex (RAC) boasts three gymnasiums, two racquetball courts, two squash courts, and a two-story fitness gallery that spans over 15,000 square feet. The facility is home to the Patriots volleyball and wrestling teams, along with intramural and club sports, ROTC, as well as classroom and offices for the School of Recreation, Health and Tourism.
Skyline Fitness Center which is centrally located on the Fairfax campus features a variety of cardio equipment, weight training/strength equipment, 1 basketball court, basketball checkout, TV lounge, locker rooms, outdoor adventures and outdoor adventure equipment
LIBRARIES
The five-floor state of the art facility known as Fenwick Library is centrally located on the Fairfax Campus. Fenwick is George Mason University's main research library. This facility features the state-of-the-art Special Collections Research Center, learning spaces, digital technology, group study rooms, extendedhours study lounge, Argo tea and then some.
The Gateway Library located on the first floor of the Johnson Center, provides dynamic environment for undergraduate learning and research. Through fostering interaction, collaboration and creative work, this library introduces both undergraduates and new students to the University Libraries' resources, services and programs.
STUDENT CENTERS
The Johnson Center biggest and busiest Student Centers building cultivates opportunities to engage with members of the Mason Nation. The Johnson Center Atrium food court is the largest on Fairfax campus and brings students together before and after class to share and discover great ideas over great meals. The JC inspires learning and positive change through its library and meeting spaces. Many of the community's events are held in spaces like Dewberry Hall and the Cinema.
Off-Campus Opportunities
The universities off-campus team comprised of students and faculty help to provide a centralized resource center and comprehensive offering of academic and social engagement opportunities for students. They work to specifically meet the needs of students living off-campus and those transitioning to off-campus living, contributing to a successful, holistic, and seamless collegiate experience. This includes students who are parenting, student veterans, adult learners over the age of 25, students from the foster care system, fully online learners, and transfer students. Mason has free shuttle bus services that takes students to the mall, various shopping plazas, and more. There are a number of opportunities for students to not only live off campus but to explore various landmarks and destinations in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
Campus Life
Housing Options
Disabled Student
International Student
Theme Housing
Students Say
Special Needs Admissions
Documentation Required for LD
Documentation ? Disability Services collaborates with students to provide reasonable accommodations that are individualized and based on documentation, functional limitations, and a collaborative assessment of needs. Criteria for the source, scope, and content of documentation varies with each individual situation. Helpful information may include medical records, evaluations (e.g., psychological, psychoeducational, neuropsychological), comprehensive school records, or a detailed assessment from a healthcare provider. Documentation is most helpful when it includes: ? Credentials of evaluator or licensed professional in the field related to specific diagnosis or impairment. ? Diagnostic information that identifies the impairment/disability, provides information about the functional impact on the student?s ability to participate in Mason?s educational programs and services, and details typical progression or prognosis of the condition. ? A description of the diagnostic methodology used (e.g., criteria, methods, procedures, clinical narrative, observation, specific results). ? A description of current and past accommodations, services, medications, auxiliary aids, assistive devices, and support services that are logically related to functional limitations. Disability Services created the The Disability Determination Form (Forms page) in an effort to make the process of securing documentation from healthcare providers more efficient. The form includes guiding questions about a disability and its impact on functional limitations. This form is not required if you have other documentation consistent with the guidelines above.Documentation Required for ADHD
Documentation ? Disability Services collaborates with students to provide reasonable accommodations that are individualized and based on documentation, functional limitations, and a collaborative assessment of needs. Criteria for the source, scope, and content of documentation varies with each individual situation. Helpful information may include medical records, evaluations (e.g., psychological, psychoeducational, neuropsychological), comprehensive school records, or a detailed assessment from a healthcare provider. Documentation is most helpful when it includes: ? Credentials of evaluator or licensed professional in the field related to specific diagnosis or impairment. ? Diagnostic information that identifies the impairment/disability, provides information about the functional impact on the student?s ability to participate in Mason?s educational programs and services, and details typical progression or prognosis of the condition. ? A description of the diagnostic methodology used (e.g., criteria, methods, procedures, clinical narrative, observation, specific results). ? A description of current and past accommodations, services, medications, auxiliary aids, assistive devices, and support services that are logically related to functional limitations. Disability Services created the The Disability Determination Form (Forms page) in an effort to make the process of securing documentation from healthcare providers more efficient. The form includes guiding questions about a disability and its impact on functional limitations. This form is not required if you have other documentation consistent with the guidelines above.Special Need Services Offered
Student Activities
Sports
Basketball
Cross Country
Diving
Golf
Soccer
Swimming
Tennis
Track Field Indoor
Track Field Outdoor
Volleyball
Wrestling
Crew Rowing
Cross Country
Diving
Lacrosse
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track Field Indoor
Track Field Outdoor
Volleyball
Student Services
Health
Womens Center
LGBT Support Groups
Minority Support Groups
Army ROTC Offered on-campus
Air Force ROTC Offered at cooperating institutions: University of Maryland, College Park
Sustainability
Data provided by Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), STARS®, as of March, 2023.
Campus Security Report
The Jeanne Clery Act requires colleges and universities to disclose their security policies, keep a public crime log, publish an annual crime report and provide timely warnings to students and campus employees about a crime posing an immediate or ongoing threat to students and campus employees.
Please visit The Princeton Review’s page on campus safety for additional resources: http://www.princetonreview.com/safety
The Princeton Review publishes links directly to each school's Campus Security Reports where available. Applicants can also access all school-specific campus safety information using the Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Cutting Tool provided by the Office of Postsecondary Education of the U.S. Department of Education: https://ope.ed.gov/campussafety/#/