Overview
Founded in 1957 as a branch of the University of Virginia and made independent in 1972, George Mason University has grown rapidly into one of the largest and most diverse research universities in Virginia. It gained particular acclaim in economics, home to two Nobel laureates on its faculty (James Buchanan and Vernon Smith), and has built strong reputations in law, policy, computer science, and conflict resolution, partly due to its proximity to Washington, D.C. Mason is classified as an R1 doctoral university with very high research activity, reflecting its rapid ascent in national rankings and research output.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Fairfax, Virginia |
| Founded | 1957 |
| Total students | 39,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 16:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 90% |
| Graduation rate | 72% |
| Average starting salary | $62,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $13,300 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $37,300 |
| Room & board | $13,500 |
| Average financial aid | $14,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 65% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1140-1330 |
| ACT range | 23-29 |
| Average GPA | 3.7 |
| Regular deadline | January 15 |
Top Programs
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Nursing
- Conflict Analysis & Resolution
- Business Administration
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.