American University
A good fit for students considering a private nonprofit institution in District of Columbia. no major red flags in the data. solid earnings of $67,700 within 10 years; strong 78% graduation rate.
About This School
American University is a private nonprofit institution located in Washington, District of Columbia with approximately 7,593 undergraduate students enrolled. The school is moderately selective, accepting approximately 47% of applicants. The average net price after financial aid is $41,945 per year. The graduation rate is 78%, and the typical graduate earns $67,700 within 10 years of enrollment.
The American University is a private federally chartered research university in Washington, D.C., United States. Its main campus spans 90 acres on Ward Circle, in the Spring Valley and Tenleytown neighborhoods of Northwest D.C.
Situated in Washington, DC, this is a strong option for students drawn to politics, international relations, or public policy — the location genuinely opens doors that most campuses can't match. The numbers tell a reasonably encouraging story: median earnings of $67,700 at 10 years and a relatively modest $19,500 median debt suggest graduates aren't drowning financially. The main concern is the $41,945 average net price, which is steep for a school with a 47% acceptance rate, so compare your actual aid package carefully before committing.
Popular Programs
Percentage of degrees awarded. Source: College Scorecard.
Notable Alumni
Source: Wikidata. Used for context only.
Admissions
SAT Scores
ACT Scores
Cost & Financial Aid
Financial Aid
Full Cost
After Graduation
Will This School Pay Off?
Strong return. Graduates earn well above their debt load.
Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. These are means across all graduates, not specific to any major.
Student Body
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (7,593 undergraduates).
Contact & Location
Official Links
Other Schools in District of Columbia
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Georgetown University
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University of the District of Columbia
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The Catholic University of America
Washington, DC · Private nonprofit
Trinity Washington University
Washington, DC · Private nonprofit
Sources & Methodology
Primary data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Accessed via automated sync. Latest values may come from different reporting years depending on the metric.
School overview from Wikipedia. Used for context only, not as a primary data source for admissions, cost, or outcomes claims.
- Earnings figures are institution-level averages, not major-specific.
- Some metrics are based on Title IV financial aid recipients only.
- Some values may be privacy-suppressed or rolled up by the Department of Education.
- Contact the school directly for current admissions requirements and costs.
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