Exploring postgraduate universities and funding options in Washington, D.C.

by Caitlin See | In All blogs, Studying in the U.S., Financial Tips | 9 January 2025 | Updated on: January 23rd, 2025

Washington, D.C. offers international students a unique postgraduate study abroad opportunity, allowing for personal and professional growth in the heart of American democracy. Home to world-renowned universities and a rich combination of cultures and history, you’ll have a front seat to U.S. decision-making and global influence.

If you plan to work and study in the U.S., here’s what to know about some of the best universities in Washington, D.C. We’ve also included some tips for success when applying and paying for your postgraduate study abroad education.

Top universities in Washington, D.C. for international students* 

Washington, D.C. is home to many historic universities that offer postgraduate programs to equip international students for global success including:

Catholic University of America 

Catholic University of America was founded in 1887 and is the nation’s oldest Catholic research institution. It has a diverse population, with students attending from more than 80 countries.

Catholic University offers more than 150 graduate and doctoral programs. Popular postgraduate programs for MPOWER customers include business administration, data analytics and computer science.

The estimated 2024-25 cost of attendance for full-time graduate-level study is US$78,984. However, tuition varies by program. For example, full-time students pursuing a graduate business degree pay US$1,350 per credit hour (not including fees and other charges). In comparison, an electrical engineering student pays US$1,850 per credit hour.

George Washington University 

George Washington University (GWU or GW) has more than 250 graduate programs to choose from. It also has a strong international population, with over 2,800 international graduate students as of 2024. That’s roughly 25% of GWU’s graduate student body!

Popular GWU postgraduate programs for MPOWER customers include business analytics, computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, finance and project management.

The cost of enrolling as a GWU postgraduate student will vary depending on the program and indirect costs, like housing and meal plans. For reference, 2024-25 tuition for a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in computer science is US$2,130 per credit hour (not including fees and other charges). This degree path requires 30 credits total with thesis and non-thesis options.

Howard University 

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a historically Black university that attracts students from all over the world. It offers more than 40 doctoral, master’s, certificate and MD/Ph.D. degrees with hundreds of specializations. Plus, it has dedicated organizations, like Howard University International Pals (IPals), to help create a “home away from home” for international students.

The estimated 2024-25 cost of attendance for Howard graduate students is US$73,218. However, true costs will vary based on your enrollment status, program and variable expenses (e.g., housing and food).

Postgraduate study abroad admissions checklist 

Applying to postgraduate programs in the U.S. requires careful planning. Use this study abroad checklist to ensure a smooth application process:

    • Research postgraduate study abroad programs. Review program curriculums, as well as faculty expertise and research interests. Look at university-level funding opportunities and career outcomes.
    • Check admissions criteria. Ensure you meet GPA, prerequisite course and standardized test score requirements. This includes providing recent English language test scores.
    • Gather application documentation. Plan to include undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose. Depending on the program, you might also need to supply a résumé or other supporting documents.
    • Prepare financial proof. You must be able to show evidence of your ability to pay tuition and living expenses. This might include bank statements, a support letter from a family member or sponsor, a proof-of-funds letter from a private lender or study abroad financial aid letters.
    • Track application deadlines. Pay attention to early acceptance and rolling admission deadlines. The same goes for scholarship deadlines.


Additionally, you’ll need to prepare for
getting a U.S. student visa, including submitting documentation, paying fees and attending an interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Funding options for work and study abroad in Washington, D.C. 

Financing your postgraduate education as an international student can be challenging. According to the Institute of International Education, more than 54% of international students pay for school using their own funds. However, if you want to minimize reliance on personal or family savings, here are some tips for finding study abroad financial aid opportunities:

    • Consider an assistantship. Graduate assistantships often provide a stipend, tuition waiver and student health insurance in exchange for teaching or research duties.
    • Use private student loans. Some private lenders work with international students to cover the cost of attendance, like MPOWER Financing.

 

MPOWER Financing makes it easy for international students to fund up to 100% of education and living expenses at one of the 400+ approved schools in the U.S. or Canada. The best part is there’s no collateral or cosigner requirement. Plus, you’ll receive support throughout each step of your study abroad journey.

 

Apply Now

 

How to make the most of your postgraduate study abroad experience in the U.S. 

Your postgraduate education should be more than just working and studying abroad. It’s a chance to LIVE by exploring and learning from those around you. This is especially important if you’ll be at a university in a major U.S. city.

Washington, D.C. is known for iconic landmarks like the Smithsonian museums, the National Mall and the U.S. Capitol – all of which are free to enter. You can also find cultural festivals and local events year-round to help build friendships and network.

If Washington, D.C. sounds appealing for your postgraduate study abroad education, we recommend starting the planning process early to ensure you’re able to secure financing and meet application requirements.

*Schools mentioned in this post do not endorse MPOWER’s loans and MPOWER is not affiliated with the schools noted in this message.

Author: View all post by Caitlin See

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

2025 © MPOWER Financing, Public Benefit Corporation NMLS ID #1233542

U.S. office India office
1101 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 900, Washington, DC 20036 The Cube at Karle Town Center, 9th Floor, 100 Ft, Nada Prabhu Kempe GowdaMain Road, Next to Nagavara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560045, India
Apply Now