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American University - SAT Scores and Admissions Data

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American University

American University

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American University Description:

Located on 84 park-like acres in the northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C., American University has made a name for itself as one of the most internationally-engaged universities in the country. The university was chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1893, and it now boasts of a student body that comes from over 150 countries. Programs in International Relations, Political Science and Government are particularly strong, but the university's general strengths in the arts and sciences has earned it a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa. The law and business schools also place well in most national rankings. On the athletic front, the American University Eagles compete in the NCAA Division I Patriot League.

Admissions Data (2012):

Enrollment (2011):

  • Total Enrollment: 12,724 (7,212 undergraduates)
  • Gender Breakdown: 41% Male / 59% Female
  • 96% Full-time

Costs (2012 - 13):

  • Tuition and Fees: $39,499
  • Books: $800
  • Room and Board: $13,920
  • Other Expenses: $1,134
  • Total Cost: $55,353

American University Financial Aid (2010 - 11):

  • Percentage of New Students Receiving Aid: 80%
  • American University Scholarships (Cappex.com)
  • Percentage of New Students Receiving Types of Aid
    • Grants: 73%
    • Loans: 56%
  • Average Amount of Aid
    • Grants: $20,525
    • Loans: $8,184

Most Popular Majors:

Business Administration, Communication Studies, International Relations, Journalism, Political Science, Psychology

Retention and Graduation Rates:

  • First Year Student Retention (full-time students): 90%
  • 4-Year Graduation Rate: 74%
  • 6-Year Graduation Rate: 77%

Data Source:

National Center for Educational Statistics

American and the Common Application

American University uses the Common Application. These articles can help guide you:

American University Statement of Common Purpose:

The complete statement of common purpose can be found at http://www.american.edu/president/Statement-of-Common-Purpose.cfm

"The place of American University among major universities with first-rate faculties and academic programs grounded in the arts and sciences is secured by its enduring commitment to uncompromising quality in the education of its students. But its distinctive feature, unique in higher education, is its capacity as a national and international university to turn ideas into action and action into service by emphasizing the arts and sciences, then connecting them to the issues of contemporary public affairs writ large, notably in the areas of government, communication, business, law, and international service.

Recognized for its emphasis on personalized teaching and experiential education, the university provides for the direct involvement of faculty and students in the institutions and culture of the most important capital city in the world. Since its founding by an Act of Congress in 1893 as a private, independent, coeducational institution, under the auspices of The United Methodist Church, American University has been a national and international university. This is reflected in the scope of its teaching and research programs and the diversity of its faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, and student body, today representing over 135 countries.

The university actively encourages a commitment to public service, inclusive participation in university governance, equity and equal access, and an appreciation of diverse cultures and viewpoints. Its commitment to social justice, its ability to respond to the needs of a changing world while retaining its core values, and its capacity to turn to educational advantage the resources of the nation's capital are hallmarks of the institution."

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