Have your sights set on The George Washington University? Maybe you want to be immersed in the buzz of the nation’s capital. You may have toured GW and found a community like no other that you can’t wait to join. Either way, you’ve come to the right place to review how to optimize your odds of admission to this prestigious private research university.

GWU Admission Statistics Over 5+ Years

According to the publicly available GW Common Data Set, the overall GW acceptance rate has hovered around 40-50% over the last six admissions cycles. The Early Decision acceptance rate has been even higher, at roughly 60-70% over the same period.

Admissions Cycle	George Washington University Graduating Class	Early Decision Acceptance Rate	Overall Acceptance Rate
2023-24	2028	63.96%	43.54%
2022-23	2027	66.08%	48.98%
2021-22	2026	65.52%	49.71%
2020-21	2025	64.80%	43.04%
2019-20	2024	70.97%	40.84%
2018-19	2023	70.28%	41.87%

Does this mean GW applicants who mean business should apply in the binding Early Decision round to optimize their odds of admission? You bet! Across America’s elite universities, Early Decision applicants fare better than their Regular Decision counterparts because admissions officers want to admit highly enthusiastic students ready to commit to their top choice school. It’s not simply a matter of legacy and recruited athletes applying in the Early Round and driving up the acceptance rate, although these fast-tracked students do experience advantages in throwing their hats in the ring early on.

George Washington University Requirements for Admission

George Washington’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions lays out their requirements as follows: 

“We are looking for students who have the academic preparation, personal qualities, and motivation to thrive in GW’s dynamic environment.

The GW Admissions Committee carefully reviews each applicant based on academic background, the rigor of high school coursework, and GPA. In addition, the committee takes into consideration essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. Submitting standardized test scores is optional for most applicants.“

These requirements are relatively par for the course for applications to any elite university, but that doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel! In 2024, GW is looking for budding experts, specialists, and passion-driven change-makers. They’re not looking for well-rounded students who haven’t differentiated themselves with a unique pursuit. Your extracurricular activities and college essays should be oriented around a singular admissions hook if you want to be a highly competitive applicant to GW. This hook is the unique and specific way you want to change the world through your passion, pursuit, cause, or art form.

George Washington University Admissions FAQ

Does George Washington require interviews? 

No. George Washington does not require or offer interviews as part of the application process.

Is the George Washington Supplement really optional?

No. If you’re serious about your candidacy, complete the GW Supplement, even though it’s optional. 

Does George Washington require standardized test scores?

No, George Washington University is test-optional. However, it’s important to note that choosing not to submit test scores may raise questions for the admissions committee. We recommend reviewing the GW admitted student profile to see how your scores compare and then deciding if applying to GW is the right choice for you.

I was deferred for Early Decision admission to GW. Is there still hope?

Yes! Each year, plenty of deferred and waitlisted applicants end up with acceptance letters from GW under their belts. Submitting a powerful Letter of Continued Interest is the best way to secure admission post-deferral. Ivy Coach’s team of former elite college admissions officers will help you navigate this process and provide a roadmap of all the things you should and shouldn’t do after getting waitlisted or deferred. Remember, there’s always hope and potential for success, even after a deferral.

Ivy Coach’s Assistance for George Washington Applicants

If your child dreams of sporting buff and blue and calling themselves a bonafide Revolutionary, turn to Ivy Coach to optimize their odds of admission to George Washington. Fill out our complimentary consultation form and we’ll be in touch.