International Applicant FAQs

Do I qualify to apply?

I am not a U.S. citizen, but I live in the United States and go to school here. Am I considered an international student?

Anyone who is not a U.S. citizen or a U.S. permanent resident is considered an international student.

How do I apply if I am a dual citizen?

Any U.S. citizen, including those with dual citizenship, or U.S. permanent resident should apply as a domestic student.

If I am in the process of obtaining citizenship/permanent residency/a green card, how do I apply for admission?

Students who are in the process of obtaining a green card/residency/citizenship are required to apply as an international student. You must provide required documentation, including a bank statement and financial certificate. If you are granted residency, subsequent to being admitted, but before matriculating, you may not be required to go through the F-1 Visa process.

Application Basics & English Proficiency 

Is there a separate application for international applicants?

No, international students use the same application process as domestic first-year or transfer applicants. However, requirements differ, so we encourage you to review the international application process.

What tests do I need to take?

GW does not require SAT/ACT scores for most students, but it does require English language proficiency for international applicants. For details, review our international application process and our test-optional policy.

Is the TOEFL/IELTS test required for admission for international students? If so, what is the minimum preferred TOEFL/IELTS score?

If English is not your first language, you are required to demonstrate English proficiency as part of the admissions process, regardless of citizenship. For details, review our international application process.

I attend an American high school (or college) and have been taking classes taught entirely in English. Do I still need to take the TOEFL/IELTS?

If you spent your most recent four years in a school setting where English is the sole language of instruction in all academic subjects (excluding foreign language and ESL/ELL courses), you meet the criteria for an English proficiency waiver. You will not need to submit a testing score, but, unless English is your first language, you will be required to complete the language waiver in your admissions portal.

Transfer Credits

How do I transfer credit for academic classes I have taken outside the U.S.?

International students or students who have taken academic classes outside the U.S. must have all previously attended educational institutions send copies of official certificates and records directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. These documents should list subjects studied, examinations taken, grades received, and degrees received. Certified copies of diplomas and certificates from all secondary schools, colleges, and universities attended as well as records of state examinations and certificates are also required.

Cost & Financial Aid

As an international student, am I eligible for financial or merit aid?

International students are not eligible for need-based financial assistance, but they are eligible for merit scholarships, for which there is no additional application. If a merit aid is awarded, it will be noted in your admission letter.

What financial documents are necessary to submit as proof of sufficient funding?

For admission, international students need to complete the Funding Your GW Education Form, which will appear in your portal following receipt of your application. Admitted students will be required to submit additional documentation to demonstrate sufficient funding for your education.

Admission Decisions

What factors go into the admissions decision-making process?

The review of a GW admissions application is holistic and includes an evaluation of the applicant’s academic background, the rigor of the high school program, and grades earned. In addition, the committee takes into consideration essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and test scores (if applicable).

When are admission decision notifications available?

GW offers binding and non-binding application options with notification dates ranging from late December to April 1st. 

Immigration Visa & Student Experience

When will I get my I-20?

Once we have all required documents, it can take up to 2 to 3 weeks to issue an I-20.

Is housing guaranteed for international students?

All students who begin at GW as first years are required to live on campus for three years unless they have been approved for a Residency Exemption. More information regarding housing and the registration process can be found on GW's Campus Living & Residential Education webpage.

What kinds of resources are available to international students?

GW’s International Services Office (ISO) facilitates international educational exchange through its services and programs. It serves as the primary administrative, programming, and advising office for our international community.