American University - Washington DC - Overview

Introduction
Founded by Congressional charter in 1893 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church, American University (AU) is a top-tier institution in the heart of Washington, DC. Originally established to train public servants, AU remains committed to leadership, public service, and global engagement. The university offers a student-focused research environment, a wide range of academic programs, and a vibrant campus life in the nation's capital.

On-Campus Housing and Residence Life

American University features 11 residence halls and various living-learning communities designed to foster connection, collaboration, and student success. On-campus housing offers convenient access to campus resources and a supportive environment for personal growth.

Comprehensive Student Support Services

AU provides robust support systems for student health, well-being, and success. Key services include:
- Health and Wellness Center
- International Student and Scholar Services
- Dean of Students Office
- Restorative Practices Program
- The Market (AU's on-campus food pantry)
These services ensure all students feel supported throughout their academic journey.

Student Life and Engagement Opportunities

From over 200 student organizations to spiritual life programs, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and community service opportunities, American University offers countless ways to get involved. Students are encouraged to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and build lasting connections.

New Student Orientation – Welcome to the Eagle Family

New Eagles are warmly welcomed through a comprehensive orientation program designed to ensure a smooth and successful transition to life at AU. Orientation introduces students to campus resources, academic expectations, and the vibrant AU community.

Founded

1893

Intake

January/August

Campus

Washington DC

Location

4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, United States

University Departments

Arts & Culture

Business, Finance and Analytics

Communications, Journalism & Media

Education

Environment

Government, Policy & Politics

International Relations & Service

Language, History, & Social Sciences

Law & Legal Studies

Science, Statistics, & Data

Technology & Security

Top Courses Offered

UG - Accounting
UG - African American and African Diaspora Studies
UG - American Studies
UG - Anthropology
UG - Applied Mathematics
UG - Arab World Studies
UG - Art History
UG - Asia, Pacific, and Diaspora Studies
UG - Audio Production
UG - Audio Technology
UG - Biochemistry
UG - Biology
UG - Business Administration
UG - Chemistry
UG - Chinese Studies
UG - Communication Studies
UG - Computer Science
UG - Dance
UG - Data Science
UG - Economics
UG - Elementary Education
UG - Environmental Science
UG - Film and Media Arts
UG - Finance
UG - Foreign Language and Communication Media
UG - French Studies
UG - German Studies
UG - Global International Relations
UG - Graphic and Visual Communication Design
UG - Health Promotion
UG - History
UG - International Studies
UG - Japanese Studies
UG - Jewish Studies
UG - Journalism
UG - Justice and Law
UG - Literature
UG - Mathematics
UG - Music
UG - Neuroscience
UG - Performing Arts: Musical Theatre
UG - Performing Arts: Theatre
UG - Philosophy
UG - Photography
UG - Physics
UG - Political Science
UG - Psychology
UG - Public Health
UG - Public Relations and Strategic Communication
UG - Religious Studies
UG - Russian Studies
UG - Sociology
UG - Spanish Studies
UG - Statistics
UG - Studio Art
UG - Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
PG - Accounting
PG - Advocacy
PG - Analytics
PG - Art History
PG - Arts Management
PG - Audio Technology
PG - Biology
PG - Biotechnology
PG - Business Administration
PG - Chemistry
PG - Comparative and Regional Studies
PG - Computer Science
PG - Creative Writing
PG - Data Science
PG - Development Management
PG - Economics
PG - Education Policy and Leadership
PG - Environmental Science
PG - Ethics, Peace and Human Rights
PG - Film and Media Production
PG - Finance
PG - Game Design
PG - Games and Interactive Media
PG - Global Environmental Policy
PG - Global Governance, Politics, and Security
PG - Health Promotion Management
PG - History
PG - Intercultural and International Communication
PG - International Affairs Policy and Analysis
PG - International Development
PG - International Economics
PG - International Legal Studies
PG - International Peace and Conflict Resolution
PG - International Service: Executive Track
PG - Journalism and Public Affairs
PG - Justice, Law and Criminology
PG - Key Executive Leadership
PG - Law and Government
PG - Literature, Culture, and Technology
PG - Marketing
PG - Master of Laws in Intellectual Property
PG - Master of Laws in Intl Human Rights & Humanitarian Law
PG - Media, Technology and Democracy
PG - Natural Resources and Sustainable Development
PG - Philosophy
PG - Political Communication
PG - Political Science
PG - Producing Film, Television, and Video
PG - Psychology
PG - Public Administration
PG - Public Anthropology
PG - Public Policy
PG - Sociology Research and Practice
PG - Special Education: Learning Disabilities
PG - Statistics
PG - Strategic Communication
PG - Studio Art
PG - Sustainability Management
PG - Taxation
PG - Teaching
PG - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
PG - Tourism and Homeland Security Policy
PG - United States Foreign Policy and National Security

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Indian Students

First-Year Student Scholarships at American University

American University (AU) offers competitive scholarships of up to $22,000 per year to newly admitted first-year students—regardless of nationality. These academic and merit-based scholarships are designed to recognize students with outstanding academic performance and demonstrated leadership potential.

Merit-Based Scholarships for First-Year Students

All admitted students are automatically considered for merit scholarships at the time of application—no separate application is required. Students in the top 10% to 15% of AU’s admitted class are typically eligible for these prestigious awards:

AU Presidential Scholarship
AU Deans' Scholarship
AU Leadership Scholarship

These awards are renewable annually, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Athletic Scholarships

Select incoming students may also qualify for NCAA Division I athletic scholarships, awarded by AU’s Athletics Department based on both athletic performance and academic eligibility.

AU Grant – Need-Based Financial Aid

In addition to merit scholarships, American University offers AU Grants to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. These grants are awarded based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and may be combined with AU merit scholarships.

TEACH Grant Program

American University also participates in the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant program. Eligible students can receive up to $4,000 per year if they commit to teaching for at least four years in a high-need field at a low-income school after graduation.

How to Apply to the American University

Indian students keen on applying to the American University can streamline the application process by visiting their nearest Edwise International branch office. Edwise, an official advisor on overseas education provides one-on-one guidance throughout the process, right from application requirements and deadlines to scholarship possibilities and visa support. Our team of experienced counselors can help you acquire a thorough understanding of the American University's admission procedure, necessary documentation, and guidelines for submitting an impressive application. Whether you're applying for undergraduate, graduate, or professional programs, visiting an Edwise office guarantees a seamless, knowledgeable, and well-supported journey to studying at one of the top universities in America.

FAQs

What are the top universities in the USA for international students?
The USA is home to the highest number of top ranked universities in the world making it an ideal study abroad destination for international students. Some of the top universities in the USA include Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley, and Princeton University.
Can I get financial assistance to study in the USA?
Yes, the cost of studying in USA can be significantly reduced with the help of financial assistance if they match the eligibility criteria, such as good test scores, excellent academic records, and other criteria set by the universities.
Should I apply only to the top ten universities?
The acceptance rates of the top ten universities are 1–4%. It is advised to apply to other universities as well. As one of the top USA education consultants, we will help ensure that you apply to the best universities providing the highest quality education.
Do universities in USA accept only TOEFL or can a student also take IELTS?
While TOEFL is generally more commonly accepted by universities in the USA, many universities also accept IELTS as proof of English language proficiency.
I have completed 15 years of education in India. Can I get admission to an MBA program directly in the USA?
Yes, many universities do accept 15 years of education with or without work experiences directly for an MBA. However, few do require 16 years of education.