Quick Summary
Since 1949, George Mason University has been one of United States's prominent public research universitys, based in Fairfax. Ranked #466 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 40390 students including 9.2% from outside United States. Known for strengths in Public Policy, Economics, Law, it maintains an acceptance rate of 90%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Proximity to Washington D.C. offers unparalleled access to internships and policy research; Tier 1 research status.
Subject Strengths
Public PolicyEconomicsLawCybersecurityConflict Analysis and Resolution
Founded1949
TypePublic Research University
Total Students40390
Intl Students9.2%
Faculty Ratio16
CampusSuburban
Campus Size677 acres
Affiliated HospitalsInova Health System Partner
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#466
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#401–500
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#201-300
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Graduate Certificates
Programs
41
PhD Programs
Mason Online offers over 50 fully online degree programs
Online Programs
Mercatus Center, Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy, Center for Air Transportation Systems Research
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate90%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL80
Min GPA3
GREOptional for many programs; check specific department
GMATRequired for specific School of Business graduate programs
SATTest-Optional
ACTTest-Optional
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 15
SPRINGApplication Deadline · October 1
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on personal statements that highlight community engagement and leadership; take advantage of the optional essay to explain academic trends.
05
Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$13,812/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$17,200/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$17,050/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$80
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$31,012/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$6,500
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Graduate Certificates programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Information Technology | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Economics | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Criminal Justice | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Nursing | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Psychology | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$69,000
Average Salary After Graduation
88%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong proximity to federal agencies, defense contractors, and the Dulles Tech Corridor
Industry Connections
AmazonNorthrop GrummanBooz Allen HamiltonDeloitteUS Government Agencies
Notable Alumni
James M. Buchanan, Vernon L. Smith, Anna E. Cabral, Hala Ayala
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
EagleBank Arena, Recreation Athletic Complex (RAC), Aquatic and Fitness Center
Student Clubs
500
Library Resources
Fenwick Library, Gateway Library, Antonin Scalia Law School Library
Exchange Programs
Mason Study Abroad offers 200+ programs in 50 countries
Summer Programs
Available