How do I know which graduate programs and degrees are offered at Mason?
Mason offers more than 100 degrees at the masters, doctoral, and graduate certificates level. These programs are offered through ten colleges, schools, and institutes. Please visit Our Programs of this site to view a full list of programs and degrees.
If you apply online there is a reduced application fee of $65. This fee can only be paid using a credit card. To apply using a paper application, the fee is $100. These fees are nonrefundable under any circumstances. An application is not complete until the application fee has been received.
YES! Go to apply online to speed the processing of your application. After submitting and getting your unique Mason G number (G followed by 8 numbers), submit supplemental materials in a single envelope directly to the office responsible for processing your application.
How much does it cost to go to Mason?
Mason offers the most affordable and valuable tuition rates in the Washington, DC region and is recognized for providing a high return on your investment. Tuition information at Mason can be viewed at full listing of graduate tuition rates.
How do I submit transcripts and other paper documents?
You should submit supplemental materials in a single envelope directly to the office responsible for processing your application. When submitting these supplemental materials, please make sure to clearly indicate the correct address and mail stop number for your processing office.
How quickly will I get a response to my application?
This will vary based on the number of applications a program receives and whether the department completes continuous review or chooses to review all applications at one time. In most cases, you will receive a decision on your application within four (4) weeks of your application being completed. Remember, however, a completed application means EVERYTHING requested by Mason has been submitted.
Can I take non-degree courses at Mason?
Applicants seeking to take graduate-level courses or graduate prerequisite courses must meet the regular graduate admissions standards. Mason holds non-degree and degree seeking students to the same entry qualifications since all students are in the same courses. Students interested in applying for non-degree study should visit admissions.gmu.edu/nondegree for information on deadlines and procedures.
What are my chances of getting accepted? What if I get denied?
You should know there is no percentage or final number Mason seeks as we review applications. Our goal is to accept all candidates with whom we believe there is a good academic and research fit.
Denial of an application is difficult for both you and the University. In many cases, a denial is based upon capacity and in others based upon a judgment that the program is just not a good fit for you at this time. A denial is not (nor is it ever meant to be) a comment on your intelligence or capability. Simply put, Admissions is charged with matching current needs of the student with current needs of the program. In some cases, these do no intersect.
How do I check the status of my application?
You can check the status of your application online at any time by creating an account using our online application system. When new application material is received at Mason your account will be updated to reflect this change.
Admissions decisions will be mailed to your home address as soon as a decision has been made. The online application system will not display your decision.
When I send documents to Mason, how long does it take before I can see them when I check the status of my application?
All documents do not show up the day you send them. Remember, we are processing tens of thousands of documents for each term and it does take some time. You can check the online application system approximately two weeks after submitting your documents. In many cases, your documents will show up more quickly.
As an international student, how is my application process different?
If your native language is a language other than English, you are required to submit verification of English language proficiency by submitting a qualifying IELTS Academic Test or TOEFL score. All applicants who have completed degrees outside the United States are required to submit their transcripts for degree validation before they may be considered for admission to a graduate degree program. You may have your degree evaluated by an approved external evaluation agency at your own expense or Mason provides this service free of charge. All documents submitted must be accompanied by a certified English translation if they are in a language other than English.
If you are applying for an F1 or J1 visa you will be required to submit financial documentation.
For a full list of application requirements for international applicants please visit the International Applicants section of our web site.
Is financial aid or other support available to graduate students?
To be eligible for financial aid, students must be U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens, and enrolled in an eligible degree-seeking program for a minimum of half-time status. If you are applying for loans, you must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year as soon as possible after January 1.
George Mason University annually awards a limited number of three-year fellowships for beginning doctoral students. The university also offers assistantships, some in research and some in instruction, which are awarded without regard to financial need to master’s and doctoral students. Awards are offered through individual academic departments. Please contact your academic department to determine whether an additional fellowship application is required.