George Mason University
About
A public, comprehensive, research university established by the Commonwealth of Virginia in the National Capital Region, we are an innovative and inclusive academic community committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world.
Introduction
Virginia’s largest public research university, we set the standard for a bold, progressive education that serves our students and communities.
We Were Made to Make it Better
Our identity was forged in 1972 on Virginia's strong ideals of academic excellence and service. Today, that spirit energizes us as a leader in scholarship and research; preparing graduates to meet the complex needs of a rapidly changing world.
Our Mission
A public, comprehensive, research university established by the Commonwealth of Virginia in the National Capital Region, we are an innovative and inclusive academic community committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world.
The Mason Graduate
- An engaged citizen.
- A well-rounded scholar.
- Prepared to act.
Mason will nurture your talents, expand your knowledge, and prepare you to take advantage of limitless possibilities. There's no regimented road to success. Forge a path that fulfills your dreams.
Discover Who You Are, and Who You Want to Be
This is one of the best times of your life — endless prospects lie ahead.
It's a time to explore the unfamiliar, visit new worlds, and find that your passion might be something you'd never imagined.
That's where we come in. Mason's academic programs aren't just courses of study; they're pathways to the accomplishments you want to make, the global problems you want to solve, and the life you want to live.
Our top-rated faculty prepare you to compete with the best in the world through experiential learning, research projects, and connections to internships. You'll also study in state-of-the-art classrooms and labs.
In addition, our Executive and Professional Education programs are designed for working adults eager to enhance their careers.
Join our diverse global community. We'll help you become the person you want to be.
Mason Offers:
- 78 undergraduate degrees, with a variety of concentrations.
- 94 master's degrees.
- 38 doctoral degrees.
- A law school.
Build the Skills to Build a Better World
You expect a lot from Mason. We'll exceed your expectations.
- Research: Develop your own project or join a professor's team.
- Study abroad: Every program features options for international study and service.
- Organizations and conferences: Start forming your career network now by joining a focused group within your major. This also opens the door to attendance at industry conferences and leadership opportunities.
- Teaching and learning: Instructors get the resources and support to create absorbing lessons that excite and engage. You'll look forward to coming to class.
- Internships and contacts: Our proximity to Washington, D.C., as well as our faculty's extensive professional networks, provide you with connections to change makers and power players.
You'll leave Mason with a degree, real-world experience, allies, and mentors. But know that graduation is not the end; it's only the beginning.
We expect a lot from you.
Visa Requirements
Visa Status and Forms
Many students come to the United States on an F-1 visa, but students who are sponsored by the U.S. Government, their home government, or another organization may be required to enter the United States on a J-1 Exchange Visitor's Visa.
To be issued an immigration document (Form I-20 for F-1 status or Form DS2019 for J-1 status), students must prove they have sufficient financial support to cover their expenses while at Mason. If the documentation submitted is satisfactory, the university will issue Form I-20 for F-1 status or Form DS2019 for J-1 status and mail it to the address indicated on the Certificate of Financial Responsibility. International students already in the United States with F-1 status must complete immigration transfer procedures within 15 days of the program start date.
For students who are already in the United States, Form I-20 or Form DS2019 may be picked up in person, if requested. International students outside the United States may use their immigration documentation to schedule a visa interview with the U.S. embassy or consulate nearest their place of residence and apply for an F-1 or J-1 student visa.
Admissions
International Requirements
Documents required to receive the Form I-20 can be submitted with the application and fee or after an admission decision has been received. Those required documents are:
- A Certificate of Financial Responsibility (CFR)
- Financial support documents
- Copy of passport identification page
- For those present in the United States, copies of immigration documents verifying current nonimmigrant status
Applications from international students are reviewed with all other applications. Admission to the university is competitive; therefore, while minimum standards ensure that an application will be considered, they do not guarantee admission. Applicants who are accepted to a program will receive an online admission decision via their online application portal.
Freshman Requirements
A freshman student is a first-time university student who has never enrolled in a college or university after graduating from secondary school. In addition to the requirements defined for all applicants, international students must meet the following standards:
- Freshman applicants must submit certified official copies of all secondary or high school transcripts in the original language along with an English translation, if applicable.
- Official results of any leaving certificates or university entrance exams.
- Freshman applicants may be considered for admission without an SAT or ACT score through our score optional admission program.
- Non-native English-speaking applicants are required to meet the University’s English Proficiency requirement.
- Applicants with English proficiency exam results below the minimum qualifying score for direct entry may be referred to an INTO Mason Pathway or Academic English program.
- Some majors have higher admission requirements.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
If English is not your native language, regardless of your citizenship, you must provide Mason with verification of your proficiency in English for admission consideration. English proficiency may be demonstrated by an exam or waiver. Exam scores may not be more than two years old.
- ACT: 20 English and Reading
- Duolingo English Test: 110
- IB Higher Level English A: 6
- IELTS: 6.5 and 6.0 each subsection
- INTO Mason Academic English: 6
- Pearson Test of Academic English: 59
- SAT I: 500 Reading and Writing
- TOEFL: 80 and 18 each subsection