American University Admission
American University Undergraduate Program
American University Application

The Facts

American University is located in the heart of Washington, D.C., and uses its politically charged surroundings to the fullest extent possible. The school is known for its School of International Service and Public Affairs. The university is also made up of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Kogod School of Business, and the School of Communication. Some of the most popular majors at the school include international studies, business administration, political science, public communication and relations, communication, and legal institutions and government.

The American University is extremely prestigious and is consequently extremely competitive in terms of admissions; last year over 10,282 students applied, 6,107 were admitted and approximately 1,283 students actually matriculated. The Class of 2004 had an average combined SAT score ranging from 1130 to 1320 and an average ACT score ranging from 25 to 29. Over 74% of admitted students were ranked in the top 25% of their high school graduating class with an average GPA of 3.42.

Another selling point of American University is its student internship program. Nearly every major offers several internship opportunities, and a majority of students take advantage of these opportunities. Additionally, the student to faculty ratio is only 14:1, with an average class size of approximately 19, allowing students to be very familiar with their professors, who make themselves remarkably accessible to their students. The faculty itself is also extremely prestigious, and the reputation of the school draws intellectuals and diplomats from all over the world. It is many of these faculty members who make the fantastic internship possibilities possible for students.

The Social Scene

The American University is located smack in the middle of the historic and politically active area of Washington D.C., and is situated in an extremely secure area near many embassies. In fact, some students complain that the area is too safe, and that they rarely see any sort of “interesting occurrences.” The dorms are incredible; old brick buildings that students usually choose to stay in until they graduate. Freshmen aren’t allowed to have cars on campus, and most upperclassmen don’t have cars because the D.C. public transportation system is quite good.

On the weekends, many students head out to the many clubs and bars throughout the city, or hang out at the many cafes, shops and restaurants scattered throughout the vibrant city. Students can also choose from the array of 150 student-run clubs and activities; there are many community service organizations popular with students as well. There is quite a bit of Greek Life, with approximately 30% of students joining a Greek organization. However, frats and sororities are mostly community service oriented.

You might just find yourself dating the future president of the United States; you decide if that’s a good thing or not!

What's Good

“The academics are world-class and you feel quite important studying in D.C.!”

“The campus is incredible and the dorms are the best in the country, easily.”

“There are so many internships and many of them end up leading to future career opportunities when you graduate.”

What's Bad

“Sure, there are a lot of smart people here, but they certainly like to show it, and can be really snooty.”

“Everything here is ridiculously expensive. The school squeezes every penny it can out of you.”

“The university claims to be diverse, but it is really just a bunch of rich white kids.”

Read a personal account of one student's transition from high school to American University here

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