George Mason University

George Mason University's published cost of attendance totals $26,972 per year, including $13,815 in-state tuition, $15,151 for room and board, and $1,278 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face significantly higher tuition of $39,397, raising total costs substantially.

However, the average student pays just $18,287 after financial aid, representing savings of $8,685 from the published price. George Mason's net price of $18,287 runs $2,697 higher than the peer median of $15,590, indicating above-average costs compared to similar public research universities.

The university's financial aid effectiveness varies significantly by income level, with the most substantial support directed toward lower-income families. Net price ranges from $12,197 for families earning under $30,000 to $25,247 for those earning over $110,000, demonstrating progressive aid targeting.

While George Mason's costs exceed typical peer institutions, the university's exceptional earnings outcomes of $76,343 compared to peer median earnings of $60,543 provide strong return on the higher educational investment. Students should evaluate George Mason's cost premium against its documented ability to deliver superior post-graduation economic outcomes, particularly given the institution's track record with diverse student populations including significant shares of Pell-eligible and first-generation students.

George Mason University graduates demonstrate sustained earnings growth over time with outcomes based on substantial cohorts providing high confidence in reported figures. Median earnings rise from $60,536 six years after enrollment to $68,053 at eight years and $76,343 at ten years, representing 26.1% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes reflect a ten-year cohort of 5,533 graduates, ensuring statistical reliability. Graduates earn $16,207 beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, ranking at the 92.0th percentile for earnings uplift.

The university outperforms peer institutions by $15,800 in median earnings, with peers averaging $60,543 compared to George Mason's $76,343. Low-income graduates earn $64,600, reflecting strong outcomes for students from diverse economic backgrounds.

Earnings span from $47,905 at the 25th percentile to $109,864 at the 75th percentile, indicating varied career paths across disciplines. Approximately 23.9% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, suggesting balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education pathways.

George Mason University maintains open access with an 88.8% admission rate, meaning approximately 9 in 10 applicants receive offers of admission. This places George Mason well above the peer median admission rate of 78.1%, indicating significantly more accessible admission than typical four-year institutions.

The university's Open Access classification (>75% admission rate) reflects its mission to serve diverse student populations while maintaining academic standards. This level of accessibility means most academically prepared students can expect admission, making George Mason an excellent option for students seeking strong outcomes without the uncertainty of highly selective admission processes.

The high admission rate, combined with exceptional post-graduation outcomes, creates opportunities for students who might face rejection at more selective institutions but can achieve excellent economic mobility at George Mason. Students should view George Mason as a reliable admission option while recognizing that the university's value lies in its demonstrated ability to convert educational access into outstanding career outcomes.

For students building balanced college lists, George Mason provides both admission security and exceptional long-term value, making it an ideal anchor institution for students prioritizing economic mobility over admission selectivity.

George Mason University offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for comprehensive outcome analysis. Artificial Intelligence ranks #19 nationally and #3 in Virginia, producing 638 graduates with median earnings of $94,945 and a value score of 91.0, representing the university's largest and highest-earning program.

Actuarial Science ranks #7 nationally and #3 in Virginia, graduating 344 students with median earnings of $83,986 and a value score of 91.0. Corrections Administration achieves exceptional value with a #8 national ranking and #1 in Virginia, graduating 384 students earning $61,608 with an outstanding value score of 96.3.

General Studies ranks #20 nationally and #1 in Virginia with 377 graduates earning $53,166 and a strong value score of 89.5. Accounting Technology ranks #15 nationally and #2 in Virginia, producing 238 graduates with earnings of $80,027 and a value score of 94.9.

Creative Writing achieves a remarkable #4 national ranking and #2 in Virginia, demonstrating George Mason's strength across both technical and liberal arts disciplines.