George Washington University vs American University for international relations: which is better for undergrads?

The biggest practical tradeoff is that GW usually gives you a denser, more immediate connection to D.C.’s policy world, while American often offers a slightly more self-contained campus experience with a very well-known IR identity. For undergraduate international relations, both are credible choices, but GW tends to have the edge for sheer proximity to major institutions and the volume of policy-adjacent opportunities students can tap during the semester. American is also highly respected in this space.

For internships and networking, GW benefits a lot from location. Its Foggy Bottom campus is close to the State Department, World Bank, IMF, and many embassies, think tanks, and NGOs, which can make part-time semester internships and informational meetings easier to manage. That convenience matters more than people think because undergrads in IR often build their resumes through multiple small experiences during the academic year, not just one summer internship.

American’s advantage is that IR is deeply embedded in the university’s identity. That can create a very focused peer environment, though some students find GW’s access to a wider range of schools and policy-related fields useful if they want to combine IR with economics, public health, media, or business.

For foreign policy preparation specifically, GW often feels a bit more plugged into the day-to-day machinery of Washington. American absolutely places students into relevant internships too, but GW’s location and overall policy ecosystem give it a slight practical advantage for undergrads trying to work in government, think tanks, or international organizations while still in school.

If your question is strictly which school is better for undergraduate international relations, I’d give GW a narrow lead overall, mostly because of access and professional positioning. American is still an excellent option, and some students will prefer its stronger IR-centered culture, but for internships, networking, and early foreign policy exposure, GW comes out ahead.