PrivateUrbanAmerican University
Washington, District of Columbia 20016-8001
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Strong graduate outcomes — known for business
American University is a private urban institution in Washington, District of Columbia. The school is accessible to a wide range of students, with an average SAT of 1392.
A mid-sized campus of 7.6K undergraduates with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
78% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $77,370 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $41,945.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •After more than three decades devoted principally to securing financial support, the university was officially dedicated on May 15, 1914.
- •Instruction began in October 1914 with 28 student enrollees, 19 of whom were graduates and the remainder special students not candidates for a degree.
- •20th century American University's first commencement was held on June 2, 1915.
- •Instruction was first offered at only the graduate level, in accordance with the vision of the university's founders.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1392
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Deadline Calendar
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
65.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.0%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (162)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
86%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
57
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from DC state average + large city premium