Understanding George Mason University Graduate Tuition Rates
Navigating the financial aspects of graduate education can be daunting. College can be expensive. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of George Mason University's graduate tuition rates, associated fees, and other cost considerations. This information is designed to help prospective and current graduate students understand the financial commitment involved in pursuing their academic goals.
Cost of Attendance (COA) Explained
An estimated budget, referred to as the cost of attendance (COA), encompasses tuition, fees, and living expenses. It's important to note that your total financial aid package and outside resources/scholarships may not exceed the COA.
2025-2026 On-Campus Graduate Tuition and Fees
For the academic year 2025-2026, the tuition rates and fees for on-campus graduate courses are structured as follows:
- Per Credit Hour Tuition Rate: \$2,195
- One-Time Fees:
- Application Fee: \$80
- Matriculation Fee: \$495
- Semesterly Fees:
- Student Association Fee: \$3/credit (\$45 max)
- International Student Fee (F-1/J-1 visa students): \$45
It's important to note that the matriculation fee is a one-time charge applied to all new graduate students during their first semester. Tuition rates listed above are for on-campus graduate students only.
Tuition Costs for Full-Time Graduate Students
The estimated total cost of tuition for a full-time graduate student registered for 9 credit hours for the Fall 2025 and/or Spring 2026 semesters is \$19,755 per semester. This figure serves as a benchmark for students planning to enroll in a standard full-time course load. Graduate estimated tuition costs are based on 9 credits per semester. Tuition may vary depending on your academic program.
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Tuition Costs for Part-Time Graduate Students
Graduate students who are enrolled as part-time students are registered for less than 9 credit hours per semester. The total estimated tuition costs per semester are based on the total credit hours a part time student is registered for. Approximate tuition costs for part-time graduate students depend on the number of credit hours taken per semester. A part-time credit load is 6 credits per semester or less.
It's crucial to be aware that students studying on an F-1 visa are generally not eligible to enroll as part-time students unless they have been approved for a Reduced Course Load.
Important Considerations Regarding Tuition Rates
It is important to note that rates are subject to change each academic year. Students may face an increase or decrease in the tuition rate each year that they are enrolled in their degree program. Tuition and fees for graduate studies at the School of Engineering & Applied Science are managed by the central Student Accounts Office at GW.
Regional Tuition Rate for Select Students
*Masters, certificate, and nondegree students domiciled in D.C. and Maryland may qualify for the Regional Tuition Rate, which is equivalent to the Schar School in-state tuition rate. Please see more information about the DMV Regional Tuition Policy. This policy applies to students starting a Schar School graduate program in the fall 2023 semester or later only. View a full breakdown of tuition vs.
Comprehensive Cost Comparison: George Mason University vs. National Averages
When evaluating the affordability of George Mason University, it's helpful to compare its tuition rates with national averages. George Mason University's tuition is \$14,316 for in-state and \$39,212 for out-of-state students. Compared with the national average cost of in-state tuition of \$12,436, George Mason University is more expensive. For students coming from out of state, the tuition is more expensive than the national average cost of out-of-state tuition of \$29,815.
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These figures, often referred to as the "sticker price," include both tuition and fees. Fees can vary significantly between institutions and may cover various services such as library access, gym facilities, student centers, technology resources, and campus health centers.
Total Cost vs. Net Price
When comparing the costs of different institutions, it's crucial to consider both the total cost and the net price. The total cost encompasses the sticker price, along with expenses for food and housing, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. At George Mason University, the total cost is \$34,951 for in-state students and \$59,419 for out-of-state students.
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