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George Mason University

Fairfax, Virginia · Public

Ranked #109 US News
$18k/yearCost after aid
Jun 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

AValue
N/ACampus
A-Academics
C+Admissions
B+Student Life
A-Overall

About

George Mason University is located in Fairfax, Virginia. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 27,083 students.

www2.gmu.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

$18kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$13,815
Out-of-state tuition$39,397
Room & board$15,151
Avg aid package$10,760
Students receiving aid30%
Pell grant recipients30%

George Mason University is recognized for its affordability and value, ranking highly in upward mobility among Virginia and DMV region public universities. With a commitment to minimizing student debt, the university provides access to high-quality education and opportunity, preparing graduates for long-term career advancement. While in-state undergraduate tuition is around $14,220 per year, 65% of students receive some form of financial aid.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1140–1340
4001600
ACT · middle 50%25–30
136

Application info

Acceptance rate89%
Average GPA3.68
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$70

Application dates

Regular DecisionJun 1

George Mason University has a nearly 90% admission rate for undergraduates, reflecting its commitment to access and impact in the community. The university seeks students interested in pursuing a rigorous education and bold research portfolio. George Mason provides flexible pathways to academic excellence, supporting students through ongoing career services and a strong alumni network.

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Academics

Graduation rate70%
Retention rate87%
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Full-time faculty53%

George Mason University emphasizes a blend of modern practice-based professional education with a traditional liberal arts curriculum. The student-faculty ratio is 17:1, with a majority of undergraduate classes having fewer than 30 students. The university fosters an intellectual environment that encourages students to engage in real-world questions and complex problem-solving.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$76,343
Avg starting salary$70,000
Job placement rate85%
Earn more than HS grad81%
Economic mobility309%
Loan default (3 yr)3%
Loan repayment (3 yr)73%

George Mason University boasts strong career outcomes for its graduates, with 85% reporting a positive career outcome within six months of graduation. Graduates also achieve some of the highest starting salaries among Virginia public universities, averaging approximately $8,000 more. The university's strong regional impact is evident, with a significant percentage of in-state graduates launching their careers in Virginia.

Student life

Demographics

Large School
27,083Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 49%Male 51%
33% WhiteRacial diversity
White 33%Asian 24%Hispanic 17%Black 12%Other 14%
Campus housingYes

George Mason University offers a diverse and inclusive campus culture with over 40,000 students from all 50 states and 130 countries. The university is known for its commitment to economic diversity and free speech, providing a balanced environment for students. With a wide range of clubs, activities, and NCAA Division 1 athletics, students have ample opportunities to engage in campus life.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

Getting into the program is easy enough, you apply just like all the other majors. If you cannot write or speak in front of a classroom you will struggle. If you're a good student and have the grades to show it, you will have no problem being accepted.

Student

Take the Argument and Public Policy Class with Warren Decker and study abroad with Cathy Wright in Italy. Also, Dr. Wright is the BEST advisor I have had. She really gives you good advice on the classes you need to take. I have heard nightmares about other advisors. So, if you are a COMM major, do whatever it takes to have her advise you.

Campus and vibes

Current Student

George Mason admission staff are not knowledgeable and lack the enthusiasm to answer students/parents' questions. They set sent me son an acceptance letter on 4/30/21. and said all fees ($550) were due by 5/1/21. The fees consist of application processing $250 and housing $300, which is ridiculous!

Student

The school has a wide range of scholarships, clubs, sports and academic opportunities that ensure the success of every student. What I loved most about the school is they are very understanding and lenient. If students are not with standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) they do not have to submit them for admissions. This really stuck out to me because personally, I never did well with standardized testing. It always stressed me out and it crushed my self esteem when I got a score that I didn’t anticipate. George Mason offers students to not only reach their full potential, but help them with to tools to the path of success.

Freshman

That’s the background. I’m only on the George Mason campus for three days, but whenever I’m here, it’s never a bad experience. I’m able to see others having fun, and everyone being able to hang out with their firends and there’s so much diversity. It’s just an amazing campus I wish I could spend more time here.

Freshman

It’s an amazing school with amazing people. I’m usually just around the same place while I’m here, but that doesn’t change the fact that the school has its perks, and the campus itslef has its beauty its a really pretty place that never makes it boring to look around.

Student

George Mason is a very large school that is largely commuters. While there are campus activities, they aren't great. My favorite part is the location. Fairfax is a great little town. Additionally, with Mason's transportation and local transportation you can truly get anywhere in the world from the campus. The Metro offers easy access to DC.

About George Mason University

George Mason's Honors College offers motivated students an enriched academic and social environment, providing unique courses, seminars, and individualized advising. Honors students benefit from priority registration, close interaction with faculty, and opportunities to live in a Residential Learning Community. The curriculum is designed to engage students in answering real questions and solving complex problems, preparing them to become leaders.

Endowment$164,455,915
Avg faculty salary$165,708

George Mason University FAQ

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George Mason University admits about 89% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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