Is Georgetown on the Common App? Your 2024 Guide

Georgetown University is a top-ranked research institution known for its strong liberal arts curriculum, international programs, and historic campus in Washington, D.C. Many applicants ask whether Georgetown accepts the Common App as part of its undergraduate admissions process.

Below is a detailed overview of how Georgetown uses the Common Application, key deadlines, testing and writing requirements, financial aid basics, and how to position your application for the best chance of admission.

Common App Use at Georgetown

How Georgetown fits into the Common App ecosystem

Georgetown uses the Common App for first-year and transfer applicants, which means you submit one application through a shared platform used by hundreds of colleges. This includes standard sections on academics, activities, and personal statements. Georgetown does not accept the Coalition Application for new first-year students, so plan to use the Common App if applying to this school.

Key Deadlines and Plan

Early Action and Regular Decision timing

Meeting Georgetown’s deadlines is essential because the school operates on a restrictive Early Action plan, meaning you may apply Early Action to Georgetown and one other school. Submitting by the November 1 Early Action deadline can improve visibility, while the Regular Decision deadline of January 8 is your final submission date for standard review.

Academic and Testing Requirements

Course rigor, GPA, and standardized tests

Georgetown looks for a challenging high school curriculum with strong performance in college-preparatory and, where available, Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate courses. While the school is currently test-optional, submitting strong SAT or ACT scores can support your application if they reflect your academic abilities. International students typically need to submit English language test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS unless they meet specific exemptions.

Essays, Recommendations, and Interviews

Personal statement and supplemental materials

Georgetown requires one personal statement through the Common App and several school-specific supplements that focus on your intellectual curiosity, service orientation, and fit with the Georgetown community. Teacher and counselor recommendations provide additional context about your academic performance and character. Georgetown also offers the option to interview, which can help admissions officers learn more about your interests and motivations.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Need-aware admissions and funding options

Georgetown is need-aware for domestic first-year applicants, meaning demonstrated financial need can be considered during admissions decisions. The school meets 100 percent of demonstrated need through a combination of grants, work-study, and loans, ensuring that admitted students can attend regardless of their family’s ability to pay. International students should note that Georgetown does not offer financial aid from university funds, so planning for full-pay or external scholarships is important.

Final Application Guidance

• Use the Common App to apply to Georgetown as a first-year student.
• Submit your application by the November 1 Early Action or January 8 Regular Decision deadline.
• Include strong academic coursework and meaningful activity descriptions in your Common App form.
• Write thoughtful Georgetown-specific supplements that highlight your intellectual and service interests.
• Consider whether submitting test scores benefits your application, and plan finances early if you are an international student.