Congratulations on your offer of admission to the Schar School of Policy and Government!
It is a pleasure to welcome you to George Mason University. We look forward to your arrival and to assisting you in your time at the Schar School. This page will provide you with important next steps in your journey to becoming a Mason Patriot.
Here's why you should choose us:
Prime Location: Just 3 miles from the Pentagon, 4 miles from the White House, and 6 miles from the U.S. Capitol Building, the Schar School provides unparalleled access to the epicenter of policy and government.
Metro Accessibility: Whether you're exploring Capitol Hill, networking at policy forums, or interning at prestigious organizations, our location a block away from the Virginia Square-GMU Metro ensures you're always connected to key opportunities.
Flexible Schedule and Modality Options: You'll have the flexibility to choose between part-time or full-time schedules across online, hybrid, or in-person modalities.
Affordable Excellence: George Mason University is committed to making world-class education accessible to all. The Schar School's competitive tuition rates and a range of financial aid options help ensure that your dream of advancing your career in policy and government remains within reach.
Supportive Community: At the Schar School, you're not just a student—you're part of a close-knit community of passionate changemakers. A supportive network of faculty, staff, and alumni is here to guide and empower you every step of the way, ensuring that you have the resources and support you need to succeed.
Comprehensive Career Support: Students gain access to personalized career guidance, exclusive internships, assistance with resumes and interview preparation, and crucial networking opportunities. Faculty and staff are committed to helping you achieve—or exceed—your professional goals.
"The faculty in the biodefense program are top-tier and some of the leading experts in the field. Many are current practitioners in the field and bring their real-world experience into the classroom. The professors hold students to a high standard but are understanding that students have important obligations outside the classroom, as well. The faculty are supportive of their students’ academic, professional, and personal goals."
- Sophia Hirshfield, Master of Biodefense '23
Admitted Student Events
Meet our Graduate Student Ambassadors
The Graduate Student Ambassadors are a group of current students available to help answer questions about the Schar School, program and faculty expectations and school/work/life balance. Feel free to connect with them via email to hear about their experiences.
Your First Semester Classes
Get excited about your first graduate classes!
The academic advising team is here to help you as you prepare to begin coursework. To see your program specific curriculum details, please review the Graduate Degree Requirements that correspond with your catalog year.
Follow the Schar School
Get a peek into what it's like to be a Schar School student! See photos from events and classes and enjoy student-created content on our social media channels.
International Students
If you're an international student, make sure you register for the International Graduate Student Orientation held by the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS)—in addition to the Schar School's New Student Orientation. Reach out to the OIPS for additional resources and support.
