Prospective Students

Start Your Journey at Mason

You'll make a great investment in yourself by pursuing an advanced degree here.

About Applying to Graduate School at Mason

George Mason University is the largest Research 1 and public university in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Our goal is to support individuals on their academic journey at an affordable rate.

Mason's graduate program admissions are competitive and selection criteria varies by program.

Factors that weigh into your selection are based on the strength of your academic background, results of standardized exams (if required by the program), work experience, and any additional evidence of potential success in the program. 

All applicants for graduate study at George Mason University must meet the admission standards specified in the Graduate Admission Policies chapter of the University Catalog.

Graduate Programs Offered at Mason:

Mason offers over 130 graduate-level degree programs and over 100 graduate-level certificates. Explore the option that best suits your needs and goals.

You can do this through reviewing the program-specific information, attending an information session, and contacting academic programs for further information.

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Locate Your Program Application Deadlines and Requirements

Timelines and admission requirements vary across Mason's schools and colleges. To locate your program's specific standards, navigate to your program using the provided links.

The Office of Graduate Fellowships offers helpful resource guides for compiling your materials for applying for a program, funding, fellowships and more. 

 

Requirements By College or School

Application Fees and Fee Waivers

Prospective graduate students must pay a non-refundable fee of $75 when submitting an application. Full-time Mason faculty or classified staff and eligible Virginia residents, 60 years or older may be eligible for an application fee waiver.

Application Status

When you submit an application, you will receive a confirmation email.  Check the application portal to confirm that Mason has received all required documents.  Applications will then be sent to the appropriate program and faculty for review. All decisions are released to applicants via the application portal.