George Mason University and Washington and Lee University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. GMU is a four-year, public school located in Fairfax, VA and W&L is a four-year, private (not-for-profit) school located in Lexington, VA.
The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.
| George Mason University | vs. | Washington and Lee University |
|---|---|---|
| Fairfax, Virginia | Location | Lexington, Virginia |
| Four-year, Public | School Type | four-year, Private (not-for-profit) |
| Doctor's degree | Highest Degree Offered | Doctor's degree |
| Research University (very high research activity) | Carnegie Classification | Baccalaureate College - Arts & Sciences |
In-State$14,220
Out-Of-State$38,688 | 2025 Tuition & Fees | $68,045 |
| 60% | % Receiving Financial Aid | 65% |
| $11,628 | Average Amount of Financial Aid | $58,158 |
| 87.48 % | Acceptance Rates | 13.97 % |
| 20.22 % | Yield (Enrollment Rates) | 41.15 % |
| 1,270 | SAT Score | 1,480 |
| 28 | ACT Score | 34 |
| 68 % | Graduation Rate | 94 % |
| 17 % | Transfer-out Rate | - |
| 86 % | Retention Rate | 97 % |
| 39,766 | Student Population | 2,241 |
| 1,463 | Number of Faculties | 268 |
| 16 to 1 | Students to Faculty Ratio | 7 to 1 |
| Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification | Special Learning Opportunities | ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher Certification |
| Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare | On Campus Student Services | Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services |