American University
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
American University is a private, federally chartered research university located in Washington, D.C., known for its strong programs in public affairs, international service, law, business, communication, and the liberal arts. It was chartered by an act of the U.S. Congress in 1893 at the urging of Methodist leaders with a vision to educate future public servants and leaders, and began graduate instruction in 1914 with undergraduate education following in 1925. The university remains affiliated with the United Methodist Church, though this affiliation does not affect admission or academic requirements. Wikipedia+1
AU’s 90-acre campus sits in a residential neighborhood of northwest Washington, D.C., combining a traditional collegiate environment with immediate access to the nation’s capital’s cultural, political, and professional opportunities. Students hail from all 50 states and over 120 countries, creating a diverse and global campus community. American University+1
The university comprises schools and colleges including the School of Public Affairs, School of International Service, Kogod School of Business, Washington College of Law, School of Communication, and College of Arts and Sciences, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. AU emphasizes experiential learning with internships, research, and community engagement, especially leveraging its location for public policy, diplomacy, media, and legal fields. Encyclopedia Britannica
Overall, American University blends rigorous academics, research, and a global perspective with the advantages of being situated in a major world capital, preparing students for careers in government, nonprofit, business, and international sectors.
- Offers over 170 programs including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, law (JD/LLM), and certificates across multiple schools and colleges. Money
- Known for public affairs, international service, law, business, communication, and liberal arts programs. Encyclopedia Britannica
- Classified as a high research activity (R1) institution.
Key Dates (Cycle)
- September 1, 2025: Fall 2026 Application Opens.
- November 1, 2025: Early Decision I and Early Action Deadline.
- January 15, 2026: Early Decision II and Regular Decision Deadline.
- March 1, 2026: FAFSA Priority Deadline for financial aid.
- May 1, 2026: National Enrollment Deposit Deadline.
- August 25, 2025: Fall 2025 Classes Begin.
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Application: Common App or Coalition App ($75 fee).
- Test-Optional: AU is Test-Optional; SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission or scholarship consideration.
- GPA: Middle 50% for admitted students is typically 3.6 – 4.1 (Weighted).
- Documents: Official high school transcripts, two letters of recommendation (one teacher, one counselor), and a personal essay.
Graduate
- GPA: Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA typically required.
- Materials: Statement of Purpose (500–1,000 words), CV/Resume, and 2–3 letters of recommendation.
- Tests: GRE/GMAT requirements vary by program; many have moved to optional or waived status.
| Program Level | Annual Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $83,000.00 - $89,000.00 |
| Graduate | $55,000.00 - $70,000.00 |
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Application: Common App or Coalition App ($75 fee).
- Test-Optional: AU is Test-Optional; SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission or scholarship consideration.
- GPA: Middle 50% for admitted students is typically 3.6 – 4.1 (Weighted).
- Documents: Official high school transcripts, two letters of recommendation (one teacher, one counselor), and a personal essay.
Graduate
- GPA: Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA typically required.
- Materials: Statement of Purpose (500–1,000 words), CV/Resume, and 2–3 letters of recommendation.
- Tests: GRE/GMAT requirements vary by program; many have moved to optional or waived status.
| Level | Web Page | Download |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | View Programs | — |
| Graduate | View Programs | — |