American University
The Vibe Check
American University feels like a vibrant hub of political energy and social activism, nestled in a leafy, upscale neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The campus buzzes with ambition, where students are deeply engaged in global issues and internships, creating a fast-paced, pre-professional atmosphere.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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Academics & Majors
AU is renowned for its School of International Service and the Kogod School of Business, offering students unparalleled access to policy and commerce in the nation's capital. Classes emphasize experiential learning and real-world application, with professors who are often current practitioners in their fields. Research opportunities are abundant, particularly in political science and public affairs, fueled by the university's strategic location.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Washington
Students take full advantage of D.C. by interning at federal agencies, international NGOs, and embassies during the week. For fun, they explore the city's vibrant food scene, visit Smithsonian museums (which are free), and enjoy the nightlife and concerts in neighborhoods like Adams Morgan and U Street. The campus itself hosts numerous speaker events and cultural festivals, keeping students engaged on-site.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($77,370):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The AU campus is generally very safe, with a visible campus police force and well-lit pathways. The surrounding Tenleytown neighborhood is a safe, residential area, though students remain vigilant as with any urban environment.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unbeatable access to internships in government, politics, and international relations.
- ✓ Strong focus on experiential learning and global study abroad programs.
- ✓ Beautiful, safe, and cohesive campus in a desirable D.C. neighborhood.
- ✓ High retention and graduation rates indicating strong student satisfaction and support.
Cons
- ✗ Very high tuition cost and overall expense of living in Washington, D.C.
- ✗ The campus can feel like a 'bubble' with a distinct pre-professional bubble.
- ✗ The social scene is often centered around political and academic events, which may not appeal to everyone.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
American University is best known for its School of International Service, one of the top schools for international relations in the world. It is also highly regarded for its political science, public affairs, and business programs, capitalizing on its prime location in Washington, D.C. The university emphasizes activism, leadership, and global engagement, attracting students who want to make a difference.
American University has an acceptance rate of approximately 47%, making it a moderately selective school. While not as competitive as Ivy League schools, it still seeks students with strong academic credentials; the average SAT score is around 1392. Admissions officers look for students who demonstrate leadership and a clear interest in engaging with the campus's active community.
Campus life at AU is vibrant, social, and heavily focused on professional development. Students are very involved in campus organizations, with a strong emphasis on political advocacy and community service. Because the campus is a designated arboretum, it offers a beautiful, green space in the city, but the social life often extends into D.C. as students take advantage of the city's cultural offerings.
The value of an AU degree depends heavily on your major and how you utilize the D.C. location. For students pursuing careers in government, international relations, or communications, the access to internships and alumni networks can justify the high cost, leading to median earnings of $77,370 after 10 years. However, for other majors, the high tuition and net price may require careful consideration of financial aid and future earning potential.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1893
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 9,160
- In-State Tuition $56,543
- Zip Code 20016
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a high sticker price over $56,000 and a net price nearing $42,000, AU is a significant financial investment. However, the 10-year median earnings of $77,370 and the prime location in D.C. provide a strong return on investment for those who leverage the networking opportunities. The relatively low Pell Grant rate suggests the student body is more affluent, so financial aid packages may be tighter compared to some peer institutions.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.