Quick Summary
American University is a private founded in 1893, located in Washington, D.C., United States. Ranked #751 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 13885 students including 12% from outside United States. Known for strengths in International Relations, Public Affairs, Communication and Media Studies, it maintains an acceptance rate of 44%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
Located in the heart of Washington D.C., offering unparalleled access to political, international, and media hubs.
Subject Strengths
International RelationsPublic AffairsCommunication and Media StudiesLawPolitical Science
Founded1893
TypePrivate
Total Students13885
Intl Students12%
Faculty Ratio11:1
CampusUrban
Campus Size90 acres
Affiliated HospitalsNot Available
AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#751
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#601–800
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#601-700
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's,Master's,Doctoral,Juris Doctor,Graduate Certificates
Programs
PhD in International Relations,PhD in Public Administration,PhD in Economics,PhD in Communication,PhD in Psychology
PhD Programs
Online MBA,MS in Counter-Terrorism and Homeland Security,MA in Strategic Communication
Online Programs
Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies,Antiracist Research and Policy Center,Center for Environmental Policy
Research Centers
High
Research Output
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate44%
IELTS7
TOEFL90
Min GPA3.6
GREOptional
GMATOptional
SATOptional
ACTOptional
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 15
SPRINGApplication Deadline · October 1
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Emphasize global perspectives and leadership in your personal statement. AU values students who are civically engaged.
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Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$60,464/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$21,500/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$43,820/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$75
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$82,500/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableAU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship,Presidential Scholarship,Deans' Scholarship
Avg Scholarship$26,500
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's,Master's,Doctoral,Juris Doctor,Graduate Certificates programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| International Relations | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Political Science and Government | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Business Administration | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Public Relations | MBA | 12-24 MO |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$69,200
Average Salary After Graduation
91%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementExceptional access to federal agencies, Capitol Hill, and international NGOs.
Industry Connections
U.S. Department of StateWorld BankPeace CorpsNational Institutes of Health
Notable Alumni
Muriel Bowser,Jordan Belfort,Judy Sheindlin,Jack Child
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Bender Arena,Reeves Field,Cassell Fitness Center,Jacobs Fitness Center
Student Clubs
AU Diplomats,Student Government Board,Model United Nations,Kennedy Political Union
Library Resources
Bender Library,Washington College of Law Library,Music Library
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available