Navigating Admissions to American University: A Comprehensive Guide

American University (AU), situated in the vibrant political hub of Washington, D.C., offers a unique academic and cultural experience. Its location provides students with unparalleled access to the resources of the nation's capital, including prominent speakers, political events, and diverse cultural attractions. Beyond its prime location, AU boasts a wide array of academic programs, student organizations, and special programs designed to cater to a diverse range of interests and aspirations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the undergraduate admissions requirements at American University, drawing upon official information and expert insights.

American University: An Overview

American University's location in the northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C., places it near numerous landmarks and points of interest. These include the Tenleytown-AU Metro Station, Embassy Row, Ward Circle, the Katzen Arts Center, the Washington College of Law, Glover-Archbold Park, Cathedral Heights, the Washington National Cathedral, Rock Creek Park, and Georgetown University.

AU provides a plethora of majors and departments across five undergraduate colleges and an honors program. This structure allows students to explore both scholastic and career-driven concentrations, benefiting from specialized instruction in each field. For example, the Kogod School of Business offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration, Language and Culture Studies, and Business and Music.

The university also fosters a vibrant student life with over 200 student groups and activities. While technically a "dry" campus, AU students have easy access to the nightlife and cultural attractions of Washington, D.C. The city's parks, museums, shopping, fine dining, clubs, and bars offer ample opportunities for exploration and engagement.

Is American University an Ivy League School?

It's important to clarify that American University is not a member of the Ivy League. The Ivy League comprises eight private universities in the northeastern United States, renowned for their historical prestige, academic excellence, and selective admissions. These institutions are Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Yale University. While AU is a highly respected institution, it operates outside of the Ivy League framework.

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Admission Requirements for First-Year Applicants

American University seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence, a strong interest in the university, and unique personal qualities. The admissions process involves a comprehensive review of various factors, including academic record, GPA, standardized test scores (if submitted), extracurricular activities, recommendations, and the application essay.

Application Checklist

To apply to American University, first-year applicants must submit the following:

Common Application: Complete the Common Application online, including the required essay.
Application Fee: Pay a nonrefundable $75 application fee or submit an application fee waiver. Fee waivers are available to families in need and, on a case-by-case basis, to first-year students applying for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship or those referred by EducationUSA or other non-governmental organizations abroad.
High School Transcript(s): Provide official high school transcripts for grades 9-12, including certified English translations if applicable.
SAT/ACT Scores (Optional): American University has adopted a test-optional policy. Applicants may choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If choosing to submit scores, self-reported scores can be included in the admissions application. For ACT exams taken after March 2025, AU will superscore the Math, Reading, and English sections.
Letters of Recommendation: Although only one letter of recommendation from a teacher is required, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit a second letter from a school counselor, principal, or headmaster. Letters must be in English and can be uploaded directly onto the Common Application by recommenders.
English Language Proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English-language proficiency by submitting official test scores. Meeting the minimum score does not guarantee admission.

Academic Prerequisites

Applicants should have graduated from a secondary school with at least 16 academic units, including:

Four units in English
Three units in college preparatory mathematics (including the equivalent of two units in algebra and one unit of geometry)
Two units in foreign language(s)
Two units in lab science
Two units in social sciences

Students who do not fulfill these course requirements may qualify for an exemption.

Test-Optional Policy

American University's test-optional policy allows students to choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. This policy aims to provide a more holistic evaluation of applicants, considering their academic achievements, personal qualities, and experiences. Choosing not to submit standardized test scores will not impact eligibility for merit-based scholarships or admission into the AU Honors Program.

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Application Deadlines and Notification

American University offers two Early Decision (ED) options:

ED I: Application deadline is November 1, with notification by December 31.
ED II: Application deadline is January 15, with notification by February 15.

The general admission notification date is April 1.

Admission Requirements for Transfer Applicants

Students who wish to be considered for transfer admission must be in good academic and disciplinary standing at all schools currently attending or previously attended. All applicants with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.00 on a 4.00 scale from all schools attended will be considered. Transfer applicants must request each collegiate institution previously attended to send an official transcript of all work completed directly to the Admissions Office. Attendance at all institutions must be reported whether or not credit was earned and whether or not transfer credit is desired. Transfer applicants to the fall semester who apply by May 1 will be notified by July 1.

Special Programs

American University offers several special programs for high-achieving students, each serving a particular population with a specific mission. These programs offer living-learning experiences and small classes with dynamic professors who use Washington as their lab. The AU Honors Program, the Sakura Scholars Program, Lincoln Scholars Program, and the Three-Year Scholars Programs (Global Scholars, Public Health Scholars, and Policy, Politics, and Law Scholars) each require a separate application. Admission is based on a strong high school record as well as demonstrated commitment to the mission of the particular program. Admission to these programs is highly competitive, and the academic qualifications of each student are carefully considered.

International Students

Undergraduate admission to American University is need-aware for all international students. AU does not provide need-based financial aid, need-based grants, or federal financial aid to international students. International students must submit the AU Declaration of Finances Form (AU DFF) by the application deadline, reflecting at least US$83,680 for the first year of study and living expenses.

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What Happens After You Apply

Once you submit your application, it will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee. You will be admitted only for the semester indicated in your letter of admission.

Understanding American University's Selectivity

The acceptance rate at American University is 61.9%, indicating that it is moderately selective. While the school expects applicants to meet its requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores (if submitted), it is more flexible than highly selective institutions.

GPA

A strong GPA is a very important academic factor. Successful applicants generally have a mix of A's and B's, with more A's than B's. While AU doesn't explicitly state a minimum GPA requirement, the average GPA of admitted students is around 3.65. Applicants with a GPA at or below this average may need higher SAT or ACT scores (if submitted) to compensate.

Standardized Tests (If Submitted)

While American University is test-optional, applicants who choose to submit SAT or ACT scores can strengthen their application. The 25th percentile SAT score is 1300, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1430. The 25th percentile ACT score is 29, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 32.

American University offers an ACT superscore policy.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Financial assistance at American University is available to students for their college expenses and is generally granted based on either financial need or academic merit.

Need-Based Aid

Need-based financial aid is determined by evaluating your own or your familyâs demonstrated capacity to cover college costs, which is assessed through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In the case of first-year students at American University, the average need-based scholarship or grant awarded amounted to $31,809. Furthermore, during the fall of 2020, 44% of first-year students received need-based financial aid. Within need-based financial aid, there exist self-help aid options such as federal loans and work-study programs. On average, first-year students were granted $3,895 in need-based self-help aid. Permanent Residents should complete both the CSS Profile and Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if you wish to be considered for need-based financial aid.

Merit-Based Aid

Merit-based aid, also referred to as non-need-based aid, is conferred based on exceptional talents or academic accomplishments. For first-year students at American University, the average non-need-based scholarship or grant â excluding any potential athletic scholarships â was $13,269. Note: Your admissions application is your application for a merit scholarship.

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