Georgetown University, a prestigious institution located in Washington, D.C., is renowned for its academic excellence, global perspective, and commitment to fostering a diverse student community. For international students—non-U.S. citizens—who wish to pursue undergraduate studies at Georgetown, the university offers a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities. While merit-based scholarships are limited, need-based aid is accessible to eligible non-citizen students through a competitive and holistic process. This comprehensive guide explains how non-U.S. citizens can apply for undergraduate scholarships at Georgetown University, including eligibility criteria, application steps, required documents, deadlines, and strategies for maximizing your chances of receiving financial support.
Overview of Undergraduate Scholarships and Financial Aid at Georgetown
Georgetown University provides financial aid primarily in the form of need-based grants rather than merit-based scholarships. The university believes in meeting the demonstrated financial need of all admitted undergraduate students, including non-U.S. citizens, to the extent possible. Georgetown does not offer full-ride merit scholarships for international undergraduate students, but admitted students who demonstrate financial need may receive institutional aid packages that significantly reduce the cost of attendance. These aid packages may include:
- Georgetown Institutional Grants
- External or private scholarships
- On-campus work opportunities
- Education loans (though limited for non-citizens)
More information is available on the Georgetown University Office of Student Financial Services website.
Is Georgetown Need-Blind for International Students?
Unlike for U.S. citizens and permanent residents, Georgetown University is not need-blind for international applicants. This means that an international student’s financial need may be considered during the admissions process. However, if admitted, Georgetown strives to meet the full demonstrated financial need of international students to the best of its capacity. Applicants are encouraged to be honest and thorough when submitting financial documents to ensure accurate aid assessment.
Eligibility for Non-U.S. Citizens
Non-U.S. citizens applying for undergraduate scholarships at Georgetown University typically fall into one of the following categories:
- International students on F-1 or J-1 visas
- Refugees or asylees residing in the United States
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients
- Undocumented students
Each group may have different financial aid options and documentation requirements. Georgetown treats undocumented and DACA students similarly to international applicants regarding need-based aid eligibility.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Georgetown Scholarships as a Non-U.S. Citizen
Step 1: Apply for Admission
Before applying for scholarships or financial aid, you must apply and be admitted to Georgetown University as an undergraduate student. Georgetown accepts applications through the Georgetown Application Portal, not through the Common Application. Key steps include:
- Completing the Georgetown Application at https://uadmissions.georgetown.edu/applying/application-process/
- Submitting required materials such as transcripts, standardized test scores (optional for most applicants), letters of recommendation, and personal essays
- Selecting an academic program and college within Georgetown (College of Arts and Sciences, Walsh School of Foreign Service, etc.)
Application deadlines:
- Early Action: November 1
- Regular Decision: January 10
International students are strongly encouraged to apply by the Regular Decision deadline to allow more time to submit financial documents.
Step 2: Complete the CSS Profile
Georgetown uses the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile, administered by the College Board, to assess the financial need of international students. The CSS Profile collects detailed information about the family’s income, assets, and expenses and must be submitted online. Steps include:
- Visit https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org
- Create a College Board account or log in
- Select Georgetown University as a recipient (CSS Code: 5244)
- Complete all relevant sections with accurate information
- Submit the form by February 1 (recommended deadline for international applicants)
The CSS Profile has a submission fee, but fee waivers may be available for eligible students.
Step 3: Submit Additional Financial Documentation (IDOC)
After completing the CSS Profile, you may be required to submit financial documents through the College Board’s Institutional Documentation Service (IDOC). These documents typically include:
- Parent and student tax returns (translated if not in English)
- Proof of income (such as employer statements)
- Bank statements and asset documentation
- A non-custodial parent’s financial information (if applicable)
Georgetown will notify applicants via email or the application portal if additional documentation is needed. Be prepared to respond promptly to avoid delays in processing.
Step 4: Apply for External Scholarships
While Georgetown’s institutional aid is limited, international students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities from private organizations, foundations, and home governments. Examples include:
- Davis United World College Scholars Program
- The Fulbright Program
- The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
- EducationUSA Scholarships
- IEFA (International Education Financial Aid)
Some of these scholarships require separate applications and may have their own deadlines. Georgetown does not directly award these funds, but they may be applied to your cost of attendance.
Step 5: Await the Financial Aid Decision
If admitted, you will receive a financial aid award letter detailing the type and amount of aid you are eligible for. This typically includes:
- Georgetown grant (based on financial need)
- Expected family contribution (EFC)
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition, room, board, fees, etc.)
- Work-study or campus job opportunities (if applicable)
You may also be asked to provide updated financial information before finalizing your aid package. Decisions are communicated through the admissions portal.
Tips for Strengthening Your Application and Aid Eligibility
Be Honest and Transparent
Ensure all financial information submitted is truthful, consistent, and well-documented. Fabricated or inaccurate data can result in a rejection or withdrawal of aid.
Demonstrate Strong Academic and Extracurricular Credentials
Because Georgetown is need-aware for international students, strong applicants with exceptional academic performance, leadership potential, and meaningful extracurricular involvement are more likely to be admitted and supported with aid.
Highlight Financial Hardship Thoughtfully
If your family has faced extraordinary circumstances—such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, or currency instability—explain this clearly in your financial aid application or through a supplemental statement.
Submit All Forms on Time
Missing deadlines or failing to submit complete documentation can jeopardize your eligibility for aid. Use a checklist and calendar to track submission dates.
Engage with EducationUSA
Connect with your nearest EducationUSA advising center for guidance on financial aid, scholarship resources, and the application process for U.S. colleges.
Tuition and Estimated Cost of Attendance at Georgetown
For the 2024–2025 academic year, the estimated cost of attendance for undergraduate students at Georgetown is approximately $85,000 per year. This includes:
- Tuition: $66,000
- Room and board: $18,000
- Books, supplies, and personal expenses: $1,000–$2,000
- Health insurance: $2,800 (required unless waived)
It’s essential for international applicants to factor in these costs when planning their education and applying for aid.
Work Opportunities for International Students
While Georgetown does not guarantee merit-based scholarships for non-citizens, international students on F-1 visas may be eligible for on-campus employment up to 20 hours per week during academic terms. These roles may include:
- Research or library assistants
- Campus dining or bookstore staff
- Administrative office support
On-campus jobs offer a modest income to help cover personal expenses, but they are not intended to replace significant portions of tuition.
What Happens After Admission
Once you’re admitted and receive a financial aid package, you must:
- Confirm your intent to enroll by the decision deadline (typically May 1)
- Apply for a student visa using the I-20 form provided by Georgetown
- Arrange travel and housing
- Complete pre-arrival checklists and orientation tasks
Keep all documentation related to your aid award, and be sure to comply with any post-enrollment requirements, such as re-verifying income annually or maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
Additional Resources
- Georgetown Undergraduate Admissions
- Office of Student Financial Services
- CSS Profile Overview
- External Scholarships List
Final Thoughts
Georgetown University welcomes talented, ambitious students from around the globe and is committed to supporting them financially wherever possible. While the university does not offer many merit-based scholarships to non-U.S. citizens, it does provide generous need-based aid to students who demonstrate financial hardship and academic promise. By understanding the application process, preparing the required documentation, and submitting forms on time, international students can maximize their chances of receiving financial support. With careful planning and attention to detail, Georgetown’s global education can become an achievable goal, regardless of your country of origin or economic background.