Located just a few blocks from the White House in Washington D.C., George Washington University is a school that cannot be adequately described as just a "good school."

The very location in the heart of the U.S. capital is a competitive advantage in itself.

This environment allows students to gain real-world experience naturally, as the city itself serves as a classroom where politics and policy flow like everyday life.

Founded in 1821 with the authorization of the U.S. Congress, this university has historically maintained a very close relationship with the government.

Its original name was Columbian College, and it holds historical significance as the first university established under the jurisdiction of Washington D.C.

https://www.gwu.edu

Particularly in the fields of politics, public policy, and international relations, it is ranked among the best in the United States. Notably, the Elliott School of International Affairs offers nationally recognized programs in diplomacy and international relations, and many graduates go on to work for the U.S. Department of State, USAID, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and more.

Additionally, the law and medical programs are also strong. The George Washington University Law School provides an environment where students can closely experience the processes of policy and law-making due to its proximity to the federal government.

Connections with lobbying groups, think tanks, and federal courts naturally lead to opportunities for practical experience beyond simple theoretical education. The GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences also has well-established partnerships with local hospitals and research institutions, providing ample clinical experience opportunities.

The most significant feature of this school is the accessibility of internships. Typically, college students face challenges with commuting for internships, but at GWU, the situation is entirely different. A short commute from campus leads to congressional offices, embassies, major law firms, and government agencies.

In fact, many students manage part-time internships during the semester. If you aim for a career in politics or international relations, this environment itself accelerates your career. You can think of it as a structure where "theory → practice → networking" happens simultaneously.

A stable Korean student community is also established here. Korean language courses, cultural events, and networking events are held regularly.

Given the nature of Washington D.C., connections with the Korean embassy and related institutions are naturally formed, providing a good foundation for students considering a long-term career bridging the U.S. and Korea.

However, we must address the practical aspects. Tuition is quite high, comparable to private universities.

When combining annual tuition and living expenses, the financial burden is significant. Especially in the heart of D.C., the cost of living is among the highest in the U.S.

Even with dormitory accommodations, costs are high, and renting an external apartment is also quite expensive.

As of 2026, the rent for nearby apartments is around $2,000 to $2,800 per month for studios and $2,500 to $3,500 for one-bedroom units.

It is common to share living arrangements with roommates to help reduce costs.

On the other hand, transportation costs tend to be lower since most major institutions are within walking distance or accessible by subway.

Some students also consider commuting from Northern Virginia, particularly the Fairfax area.

It takes about 30 to 40 minutes by car, and commuting via metro is also an option.

However, due to the nature of Washington D.C., traffic congestion is significant, so many students actually live closer to campus.

In summary, George Washington University is not just a place to learn academically; it is a platform where you can gain direct experience at the center of politics and policy.

If you are aiming for fields like diplomacy, law, or public policy, the saying "location is opportunity" fits this university perfectly.

While there is a clear financial burden, the density of networks and experiences you can gain is substantial.

For students ready to leverage the city of Washington D.C., it is certainly a worthwhile investment choice.