George Mason University - Arlington

George Mason University is a young university that, in just a short time, has made impressive strides in size, stature and influence. Today, they are the largest public research university in Virginia with four campuses in Virginia and one in Songdo, Korea. They have grown to more than 37,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Their commitment to serving their students, community and the world is having a measurable impact. 

Mason's 10 colleges and schools cover all academic areas, as well as providing the opportunity for students to craft their own course of study. With over 82 undergraduate degrees with different concentrations and 89 master's degrees, students are bound to find something that fits. Whether students are passionate about a certain subject or want to explore their options, they will be provided the advice, guidance, and grounding they need to make their mark.

George Mason University’s Arlington Campus is located in the Virginia Square neighborhood of Arlington County. The Arlington Campus hosts the Antonin Scalia Law School, the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, the Schar School of Policy and Government, programs in Arts Management and the School of Business, and continuing professional education through Mason’s Executive and Professional Education. Most of the programs offered are at the graduate and professional levels. George Mason University has a partnership with INTO University Partnerships that supports international students from application to graduation. Through INTO Mason's academic programs, students can start their university experience while improving their language and academic skills to the point where they can comfortably and confidently attend classes at Mason in any area of study. The programs include: Academic English, International Year One, Undergraduate Transfer Program, Graduate Pathways and Bridge Program. When students successfully complete an International Year One, Transfer or Graduate Pathway program, they'll be ready to continue to their degree program at Mason.

Why George Mason University?

Campus Life: Live on the edge of Washington, DC, the capital of the United States and hub for business, culture, government and research. Brimming with innovation and opportunity, George Mason University is central to it all—and puts students on the fast-track to career development and networking in leading industries.

Facilities: As a Mason student, students have access to all the university facilities including recreation centres, dining halls, more than 30 on-campus restaurants, a state-of-the-art library, arena, research labs, performing arts centres, Innovation Exchange and more!

Research: Mason is one of the top research universities in the nation, holding an R1 designation from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. They are the largest public research university in Virginia, and account for almost 60 percent of the growth of higher education in the state.

Student Culture: Learn to juggle. Celebrate Arabic culture. Join student government. With more than 350 student organizations at Mason, there are so many ways for students to find their niches, get involved, and meet new friends in the process.

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. You have the option to submit ACT or SAT scores with your application, or you may apply Score Optional. If you decide to apply with ACT or SAT scores, George Mason University will use the self-reported SAT and/or ACT test scores as part of our holistic admissions process. However, an admission decision will then be contingent upon receipt of official test scores, sent directly from the testing agency, prior to the first day of classes for the semester in which the student intends to enroll. The Office of Admissions reserves the right to reevaluate an applicant’s admissions or scholarship decision upon receipt of official test scores. This reevaluation may result in a change of admissions or scholarship status. More information on Score Optional Consideration is available below on this page.
• Applicants may also apply as Score Optional if they meet the requirements.
• Secondary School Report and counselor recommendations. We suggest sending two (2) letters of recommendation, one from your high school counselor and one from a teacher. The Common Application provides a section for uploading letters of recommendation. For George Mason University’s Undergraduate Application for Admission, there is no special recommendation form and letters can be submitted electronically or via e-mail (If you have been out of school for more than five years, this is not necessary.)
• 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. Submit your statement online when prompted during the online application process or within the Common App.
• Non-native English-speaking applicants are required to meet the University's English proficiency requirement  Applicants who will have completed four years (grades 9-12) of college preparatory English (excluding ESL and remedial English courses) at a U.​S.​ secondary school, excluding Puerto Rico, with grades of C or better in each course satisfy the requirement.
• Extracurricular activities and community service participation listed on your online application, the Common Application, or sent within an activity sheet or resume.