BA English at George Washington University

Programme overview

GW’s English major is designed to help students foster both an appreciation for literary works of art and an ability to communicate passionately, persuasively, and elegantly about the topics that matter most to them. The program's flexible structure permits students to tailor their studies to their own interests by exploring issues of community, creativity, cultural conflict, and history within an extraordinary range of texts. The department is strongly dedicated to small classes, faculty mentorship, study abroad opportunities, and undergraduate research projects that allow students to define and achieve their educational goals.

Faculty: Columbian College of Arts and Sciences | Department: English | Location: Washington, DC, United States

What you will study

The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Undergraduate Programs. One introductory, non-creative writing ENGL course taken at the 1000 level. Suggested courses include: One course in creative writing taken at the 1000 or 2000 level. Suggested courses include: Two introductory survey courses taken at the 2000 level. Suggested courses include: One minority/diversity course taken at the 3000 level.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

University/college-level admission (applies to all majors): For information about the admission process, including deadlines, visit the Office of Undergraduate Admissions website. Applications can be submitted via the Common Application. For questions visit undergraduate.admissions.gwu.edu/contact-us.

USD 72,000 a year (2026-27). Full-time main campus undergraduate tuition for students entering in 2026-27 in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business, Elliott School, Milken Institute School of Public Health or School of Engineering and Applied Science (12-18 cr Source

First-year students enter in the fall semester; transfer applications are accepted for fall and spring admission.

Early Decision I deadline is November 1 and Early Decision II is January 5 (both binding); the Regular Decision deadline is January 5. Applications use the Common Application. Transfer applications are due April 15 for fall and October 1 for spring. Testing is optional (SAT or ACT), except for BA/MD, homeschooled and narrative-evaluation applicants. BFA applicants (except Interior Architecture) submit a portfolio of 10 to 15 works through SlideRoom. The application fee is $80.

International applicants whose first language is not English submit TOEFL (minimum 90), IELTS (minimum 6.5) or PTE Academic scores.

Apply through the official page: https://undergraduate.admissions.gwu.edu/

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