For prospective students, choosing between two prestigious institutions like George Washington University (GWU) and Georgetown University can be a daunting task. Both universities offer exceptional academic programs, vibrant campus environments, and ample opportunities for personal growth. To assist in this decision-making process, this comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each university, highlighting their strengths and distinctions, thus enabling students to make an informed choice that aligns with their aspirations and goals.
Academics and Rankings
George Washington University
- GWU boasts an esteemed reputation for its academic excellence, consistently ranking among the top 100 universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
- The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, with notable strengths in health sciences, international affairs, and engineering.
- GWU’s faculty consists of renowned scholars and practitioners, providing students with access to cutting-edge research and industry expertise.
Georgetown University
- Georgetown University enjoys a highly selective admissions process, ranking among the top 20 universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
- The university’s academic prowess shines particularly in the fields of international relations, public policy, and law.
- Georgetown boasts a distinguished faculty, including former government officials, diplomats, and legal experts, who share their extensive knowledge and experience with students.
Academic Standouts
| Area | George Washington University | Georgetown University |
|---|---|---|
| Health Sciences | Milken Institute School of Public Health, GW Hospital | School of Medicine, Georgetown University Hospital |
| International Affairs | Elliott School of International Affairs | School of Foreign Service |
| Engineering | School of Engineering and Applied Science | McDonough School of Business |
| Public Policy | Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration | McCourt School of Public Policy |
Campus and Student Life
George Washington University
- GWU’s campus, nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., offers a bustling urban environment with easy access to internships, cultural opportunities, and government institutions.
- The university has a vibrant student life, with over 450 student clubs and organizations, providing opportunities for involvement and community building.
- GWU’s residence halls are conveniently located near academic buildings and social spaces, fostering a sense of shared experience among students.
Georgetown University
- Georgetown’s campus, situated in the historic Georgetown neighborhood, combines the charm of a residential area with the proximity to urban amenities.
- The university’s student life is equally vibrant, with over 200 student clubs and organizations, offering a wide range of interests and activities.
- Georgetown’s on-campus housing options include traditional dormitories, as well as townhouses and apartments, catering to the diverse needs of students.
Campus Highlights
| Aspect | George Washington University | Georgetown University |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Urban, central Washington, D.C. | Residential, historic Georgetown neighborhood |
| Student Clubs and Organizations | 450+ | 200+ |
| On-Campus Housing | Residence halls, apartments, townhouses | Traditional dormitories, apartments, townhouses |
| Nearby Attractions | Museums, monuments, government buildings | Boutiques, restaurants, performing arts venues |
Cost and Financial Aid
George Washington University
- GWU’s annual tuition and fees for undergraduate students are approximately $56,000.
- The university offers a generous financial aid program, with need-based and merit-based scholarships and grants available to qualifying students.
- GWU’s average financial aid award for first-year students is approximately $27,000.
Georgetown University
- Georgetown University’s annual tuition and fees for undergraduate students are approximately $59,000.
- The university also offers a robust financial aid program, with a commitment to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students.
- Georgetown’s average financial aid award for first-year students is approximately $35,000.
Cost and Financial Aid Comparison
| Aspect | George Washington University | Georgetown University |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition and Fees | $56,000 | $59,000 |
| Financial Aid Program | Generous, need-based and merit-based | Robust, full-need coverage |
| Average Financial Aid Award for First-Year Students | $27,000 | $35,000 |
Admissions and Selectivity
George Washington University
- GWU’s admissions process is considered moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 40%.
- For the Fall 2022 admissions cycle, GWU received over 38,000 applications for approximately 6,600 undergraduate seats.
- The average SAT score for admitted students was 1400, and the average ACT score was 32.
Georgetown University
- Georgetown University’s admissions process is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 13%.
- For the Fall 2023 admissions cycle, Georgetown received over 50,000 applications for approximately 1,700 undergraduate seats.
- The average SAT score for admitted students was 1530, and the average ACT score was 35.
Admissions Overview
| Aspect | George Washington University | Georgetown University |
|---|---|---|
| Admissions Selectivity | Moderately selective | Highly selective |
| Acceptance Rate | 40% | 13% |
| Average SAT Score | 1400 | 1530 |
| Average ACT Score | 32 | 35 |
Location and Surroundings
George Washington University
- GWU’s location in Washington, D.C., provides students with unparalleled opportunities for internships, research collaborations, and cultural enrichment.
- The university’s proximity to government agencies, think tanks, and international organizations offers students access to a vast network of professionals and experts.
- The vibrant city life of Washington, D.C., offers a multitude of entertainment and recreational options, including museums, theaters, and parks.
Georgetown University
- Georgetown’s location in the historic Georgetown neighborhood offers a charming blend of residential and urban surroundings.
- The university’s proximity to the Potomac River and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts provides students with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and cultural experiences.
- The neighborhood’s quaint boutiques, restaurants, and live music venues contribute to a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Location Highlights
| Aspect | George Washington University | Georgetown University |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Environment | Central Washington, D.C. | Historic Georgetown neighborhood |
| Internship Opportunities | Government agencies, think tanks, international organizations | Local businesses, nonprofits, government agencies |
| Cultural Attractions | Museums, monuments, performing arts venues | Boutiques, restaurants, performing arts venues |
| Outdoor Recreation | Parks, running trails | Potomac River, walking trails |
Student Body and Diversity
George Washington University
- GWU’s student body is diverse, representing over 130 countries and all 50 states.
- The university has a strong commitment to inclusivity and supports a wide range of student organizations dedicated to promoting diversity and belonging.
- GWU’s student government is actively involved in campus affairs, representing the voices of all students and advocating for their needs.
Georgetown University
- Georgetown University’s student body is also diverse, with students from all over the United States and the globe.
- The university has a long history of Jesuit education, emphasizing service to others and the pursuit of justice.
- Georgetown’s Center for Social Justice promotes social change and provides students with opportunities to engage in community service and advocacy.
Student Body Profile
| Aspect | George Washington University | Georgetown University |
|---|---|---|
| International Students | Over 130 countries | n/a |
| Diversity Initiatives | Strong commitment, student organizations dedicated to diversity | Jesuit emphasis on service, Center for Social Justice |
| Student Government | Actively involved, represents student voices | n/a |
Alumni Network and Career Outcomes
George Washington University
- GWU boasts a vast and influential alumni network of over 350,000 professionals worldwide.
- The university’s alumni hold leadership positions in government, business, law, and other fields, providing students with access to mentorship and career opportunities.
- GWU’s Career Center offers comprehensive career services, including resume writing, interview preparation, and job placement assistance.
Georgetown University
- Georgetown University has an equally impressive alumni network of over 200,000 graduates who have achieved success in various industries and sectors.
- The university’s alumni are known for their strong work ethic and commitment to service, often serving as role models for current students.
- Georgetown’s Career Center provides personalized career guidance, internship placement support, and connections to the university’s extensive alumni network.
Alumni Network and Career Support
| Aspect | George Washington University | Georgetown University