School Location:

WASHINGTON, DC

School Type:

PRIVATE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

How difficult is it to get into American University?

American University is considered a moderately selective institution. The school had an acceptance rate of 47.3% for the Class of 2027. Ranked 105 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, the school’s median SAT and ACT scores for the Class of 2027 were 1370 and 31, respectively.

What is the campus like at American University?

American University’s campus is located in the northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C., offering a vibrant and dynamic environment for students. Spread across 84 acres, the campus features a mix of modern and historic buildings nestled among green spaces and landscaped grounds. Notable landmarks include the iconic Bender Arena, the Katzen Arts Center, and the Kogod School of Business. The campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including classrooms, research labs, and student centers, as well as a variety of amenities such as cafes, dining options, and recreational facilities. With its central location in the nation’s capital, students have access to a wealth of cultural, political, and professional opportunities, making the American University campus an exciting and enriching place to live and learn.

Fun Fact: Initial designs for American’s campus were drawn up by Frederick Law Olmstead, famed architect and landscape designer for New York Central Park.

What is American University known for?

Given its history and location in the nation’s capital, it is no surprise that American University is known for its relationship with American politics. Not only does American have stellar programs in political science and international relations—it is also one of three top feeder schools for the U.S. State Department after Georgetown University.

How diverse is American University?

American University is known for its diverse and inclusive community, with students, faculty, and staff from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. For the Class of 2027, 12.6% of the incoming student body identified as Hispanic, 7.8% identified as Black or African American, and 8% were international.

How do I apply to American University?

When applying, prospective students have the option to apply Early Action, ED I, ED II, or Regular Decision. Keep in mind that Early Decision I and II are binding applications, meaning that if you get accepted early to American University, you must withdraw your applications to all other colleges. Dates and deadlines for applications are as follows:

• Early Action: November 1
• Early Decision 1: November 1
• Early Decision 2: January 15
• Regular Decision: January 15

Applying to AU requires submission of the following:

• Common Application or Coalition Application
• High School Transcript
• Secondary School Report
• Senior Year mid year report
• Standardized Testing (optional)
• Teacher Recommendation Letter
• Counselor Recommendation (optional)
• TOEFL or IELTS (for international students only)
• $75 application fee

What are American University’s core curriculum and programs?

American’s core curriculum is centered on the liberal arts and made up of foundation courses, Habits of Mind courses, and integrative courses. These pillars are designed to instill core skills and competencies, rather than exposing students to an array of disciplines that will not ultimately inform their subject of study.

American University offers a plethora of undergraduate majors and minors across a variety of disciplines and schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the Kogod School of Business, School of Communication, School of International Service, School of Public Affairs, and the School of Education. Students have the flexibility to tailor their academic experience to their interests and career goals by selecting a major and potentially pursuing a minor or interdisciplinary studies.

American University has a very strong commitment to undergraduate research by providing funding and resources to support students in all stages of their research pursuits. This includes opportunities to serve as paid research assistants to full-time faculty, funding to engage in independent research projects and conferences, and in-depth summer projects with faculty members.

American University students can also choose to participate in Dual Degree Programs, independent study, and interdisciplinary studies.

Can I afford American University?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, the overall cost to attend American University for a first year full-time student was $79,372—this includes tuition, housing, dining, fees, and miscellaneous costs.

80% of incoming American students receive need based financial aid. In addition, all incoming freshmen are assigned an individual financial aid counselor. Every year, the university awards nearly $100 million in financial aid to undergraduate students. All students who apply to American are considered for most merit based scholarships, including Dean’s and Presidential scholarships.

How much does American University cost?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, the tuition cost to attend American University for a full-time student was $30,906. Students who go above 18 credit hours are charged $1,930 per additional credit hour. Undergraduate students are also expected to pay mandatory student fees each semester. These fees include a Sports Center Fee, Undergraduate Activity Fee, Student Technology Fee, and Metro U-Pass fee, totalling $409.50 each semester. Room and board expenses vary depending on which dorm students live in. Overall, it is estimated that the total cost of attendance is around $71,704 per year.

80% of incoming American students receive need-based financial aid. In addition, all incoming freshmen are assigned an individual financial aid counselor. Every year, the university awards nearly $100 million in financial aid to undergraduate students. All students who apply to American are considered for most merit-based scholarships, including the Dean’s and Presidential scholarships.