For students interested in applying to Georgetown, we’ve compiled everything you need to know to get your application together!
What Makes Georgetown Special?
Georgetown University isn’t just the oldest and most selective Catholic school in the U.S, it’s also the place where future political leaders, diplomats, and business moguls come to learn how to make things happen.
Located just blocks from the heart of Washington DC, Georgetown offers a front-row seat to the power and politics of the nation’s capital. But it’s not just about proximity to the White House—students here get the perfect blend of academics, social life, and faith, all wrapped up in a well-rounded college experience.
What Do I Need To Know About Georgetown’s Campus?
Georgetown’s 104-acre campus, established in 1789, is a scenic gem with views of the Potomac River. The mix of architecture on campus tells the story of the school’s history, from the Federal-style Old North building (where George Washington and Lafayette once stayed) to the iconic Healy Hall, a post-Civil War landmark. The beauty and history of Georgetown is matched by its intellectual rigor—students are here to learn, and they take their coursework seriously.
How Religious Is Georgetown?
While Georgetown is rooted in Catholicism, the religious vibe is pretty chill, and the student body leans liberal. Georgetown was formed by John Carroll to allow Catholics to attend universities in the United States. Prior to the formation of Georgetown, students of the Catholic faith were not allowed to attend colleges like Harvard and Yale and were forced to travel to Europe to attend college.
Today, about half of the undergrads are Catholic, but all religions are welcomed and practiced, making for a diverse and inclusive campus environment.
The Jesuit idea of cura personalis, care for the whole person (heart, hands and mind), is central to attending Georgetown. At Georgetown, students all take the “Problem of God” class and are able to explore ideas of faith inter spiritually Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs and Ignatius Seminars.
What are the Ignatius Seminars?
Ignatius Seminars are exclusive courses for first-year students at Georgetown’s College of Arts & Sciences. Inspired by the Jesuit tradition of cura personalis (care for the whole person), these seminars offer small class sizes (16–20 students) to foster close faculty-student interaction and intellectual exploration. Faculty design courses based on personal interests and expertise, creating a dynamic learning environment. The seminars emphasize foundational academic skills like reading, writing, discussion, and argumentation while introducing students to Georgetown’s educational values.
Is Georgetown Only For Catholics?
No. Many interfaith programs exist on campus. The Encounter Program is a pre-orientation program that introduces first-year students to Georgetown’s diverse religious communities. It includes visits to sacred spaces, interfaith dialogues, and community-building activities at the Calcagnini Contemplative Center.
Regular interfaith events such as “The Muslim Jesus” and “Sink or Swim: Jews and Muslims Crossing the Sea” promote dialogue on specific topics or traditions.
The Black Interfaith Fellowship program supports Black student leaders from diverse religious traditions, focusing on interfaith organizing, racial justice, and leadership development.
What Religious Services Can Students Attend at Georgetown?
Students can attend services from many traditions, including Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, Orthodox Christian, Buddhist, and Hindu. Services are open to those of all faiths. The SCS Interfaith Chapel hosts regular meditation sessions, Jum’ah prayers, and Catholic Masses.
What Religious Programs Are Available at Georgetown?
Inspired by Jesuit spirituality, Georgetown offers retreats that welcome students of all faiths to reflect on their spiritual journeys. Open to all religious traditions, the MAGIS Immersion Program combines social justice advocacy with interfaith engagement. Campus Ministry-affiliated student groups represent various faiths and participate in interfaith councils and events. These groups provide opportunities for spiritual growth and community service. Georgetown partners with communities on interfaith service initiatives like the President’s Interfaith and Community Service Campus Challenge.
How Is Georgetown Addressing Ties to Slavery?
The school is also working hard to address its past ties to slavery, including offering preferential admissions to descendants of the 272 slaves sold in 1838 to keep the university afloat. It’s a big step toward healing, and the creation of an African American studies department and an Institute for Racial Justice shows that Georgetown is committed to growth and reflection.
Georgetown University has taken significant steps to address its historical ties to slavery, particularly its involvement in the sale of 272 enslaved individuals in 1838 to save the institution from financial collapse. These efforts include financial reparations, memorialization, and community engagement initiatives.
What Are Georgetown’s Academic Programs Like?
Georgetown’s academic programs reflect its Jesuit mission of developing students intellectually and morally. Whether you’re in the School of Foreign Service (SFS), the McDonough School of Business, or the College of Arts and Sciences, expect to be challenged. The curriculum is broad, with core requirements in humanities, philosophy, theology, and writing, but the real highlight is the Ignatius Seminars, which help first-year students build relationships with professors while engaging in discussions that develop both mind and spirit.
The programs at Georgetown that draw the most attention are in international affairs, foreign service, and business. The Walsh School of Foreign Service is especially famous for turning out diplomats, journalists, and world leaders. If you’ve dreamed of working in global affairs, Georgetown is your launchpad.
Other hot programs include international economics, government, finance, and nursing. The business school is also top-tier, offering a strong foundation in international business and public policy. There’s even a unique faculty offering in languages and linguistics, with undergrad programs in nine languages and comparative literature.
What Are Classes Like At Georgetown?
As for the classroom experience, Georgetown’s no slouch. With 60% of classes having fewer than 20 students, you’ll get plenty of personal attention from professors. Plus, Georgetown prides itself on giving students a global perspective, with more than half of undergrads studying abroad at one of the school’s 210 programs in 57 countries.
How Diverse Is Georgetown?
Georgetown’s student body is as diverse as it gets. About 84% of students come from outside D.C., with 14% coming from other countries. On campus, you’ll find 6% African American, 10% Hispanic, 9% Asian American, and 5% multiracial students. The school is committed to inclusivity, with initiatives aimed at improving race relations and ensuring all students feel welcome.
While Georgetown doesn’t offer academic merit scholarships, they do meet 100% of demonstrated financial need and offer athletic scholarships for talented athletes. There’s also the Georgetown Scholarship Program, which supports low-income students with both academic and financial aid.
What Is Living on the Georgetown Campus Like?
Living on campus is a breeze, with 77% of undergrads housed in university-owned dorms, townhouses, and apartments. The dorms are “really nice” according to students, and you’ll find that the campus has a safe, welcoming feel. Georgetown also has a strict policy on alcohol—no drinking in undergrad dorms, and all parties must be registered.
The lack of a Greek system gives Georgetown a more decentralized social life, which isn’t a bad thing. The area around campus is full of bars, restaurants, and clubs, but Bulldog Tavern is a student favorite for affordable fun. Plus, Georgetown’s social scene includes lots of annual events, including the Diplomatic Ball and the Blue/Gray Ball, which are big deals for students looking to dress up and enjoy a night out.
Beyond Campus, What Is Life In Washington DC Like?
Beyond campus, Washington DC is your playground. From the Smithsonian Museums to the Kennedy Center, the cultural opportunities are unparalleled. The clean, efficient Metro makes it easy to get around, so students never run out of things to do. D.C. is an ideal college town, offering everything from shopping to history to great food.
Beyond Basketball, What Are Athletics Like at Georgetown?
When it comes to sports, Georgetown’s basketball team is the heart of the action. The school has a long and proud history in sports, and the basketball games are a big part of that—just listen to the “Hoya Saxa” chant, and you’ll know the game’s on. The school’s athletic programs are strong across the board, with recent championships in men’s and women’s soccer, lacrosse, and cross-country.
At Georgetown, it’s all about pushing boundaries, finding your niche, and making an impact. It’s a place where students come from all walks of life to learn from one another and prepare for leadership roles on the world stage.
What Are Georgetown’s Admissions Deadlines?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the college application process, consider exploring college admission counseling to get tailored support and advice.
What Are Georgetown’s Essay Requirements?
Georgetown is not on the Common Application platform and students must apply directly to Georgetown using the Georgetown application.
Short Essay
Briefly (approximately one-half page, single-spaced) discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved. Compose two brief essays (approximately one page, single-spaced each) on the topics given below. Essays should be typed.
Essay One
All Applicants: As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your personal background and individual experiences, skills, and talents.
Essay Two
APPLICANTS TO THE COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES: Founded in 1789, the Georgetown College of Arts & Sciences is committed to the Jesuit traditions of an integrated education and of productive research in the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and fine arts. Describe your interest in studying at the College of Arts & Sciences. Applicants interested in the sciences, mathematics, or languages are encouraged to make specific reference to their choice of major.
APPLICANTS TO THE SCHOOL OF NURSING: Georgetown University’s School of Nursing is committed to the formation of ethical, empathetic, and transformational nursing leaders. Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying Nursing at Georgetown University.
APPLICANTS TO THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH: Georgetown University’s School of Health was founded to advance the health and well-being of people locally, nationally, and globally through innovative research, the delivery of interdisciplinary education, and transformative engagement of communities. Describe the factors that influenced your interest in studying health care at Georgetown University, specifically addressing your intended related major: Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science.
APPLICANTS TO THE WALSH SCHOOL OF FOREIGN SERVICE: Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders with the foundational skills to address global issues. Describe your primary motivations for studying international affairs at Georgetown University and dedicating your undergraduate studies toward a future in global service.
APPLICANTS TO THE MCDONOUGH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS: Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business provides graduates with essential global, ethical, analytical, financial, and diverse perspectives on the economies of our nation and the world. Describe your primary motivations for studying business at Georgetown University.
For personalized guidance on your Georgetown application or any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to Opus College Prep—we’re here to help you succeed!
