Overview
Founded in 1893 by an act of Congress and affiliated with the Methodist Church, American University was established with a mission to prepare students for careers in public service and government. Located in the nation's capital, AU has become one of the premier institutions for political science, international relations, law, and public administration, leveraging its proximity to federal agencies, embassies, and NGOs. The School of International Service and Washington College of Law are particularly well-regarded, producing graduates who populate the ranks of diplomacy, journalism, and public policy.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Washington, District of Columbia |
| Founded | 1893 |
| Total students | 13,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 39% |
| Graduation rate | 80% |
| Average starting salary | $58,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $54,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $54,000 |
| Room & board | $16,500 |
| Average financial aid | $32,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 75% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1230-1400 |
| ACT range | 27-32 |
| Average GPA | 3.75 |
| Regular deadline | January 15 |
Top Programs
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Communications/Journalism
- Business Administration
- Public Policy & Administration
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.