Which is better for studying international relations as an undergraduate: the University of Virginia or George Washington University?

For a student focused specifically on diplomacy and U.S. foreign policy, George Washington University is likely the more immersive undergraduate fit because its Elliott School of International Affairs is in Washington, D.C., within reach of federal agencies, embassies, think tanks, and international organizations. GW’s International Affairs curriculum is purpose-built for the field and makes internships during the academic year unusually practical. The D.C. setting also brings frequent policy speakers, events, and networking opportunities into students’ regular routine.

GW suits students who want international affairs to shape most of their college experience: specialized coursework, language study, policy-oriented student organizations, and hands-on work in the city. Its strengths are especially relevant for someone imagining internships connected to the State Department, Congress, foreign-policy research, advocacy, or diplomatic missions. The tradeoff is that students need to be proactive about managing a busy city environment and turning abundant opportunities into a coherent path.

UVA is compelling for a student who wants a broader residential liberal-arts experience alongside serious preparation in foreign affairs. Its Politics department offers a Foreign Affairs major, and students can pair it with history, economics, regional studies, languages, or other disciplines. UVA’s Miller Center is a notable resource for students interested in the presidency and public policy, while its strong undergraduate culture can provide closer community and a more traditional campus experience than GW.

UVA may appeal more if you want to explore international relations within a wider academic foundation, value Charlottesville’s campus-centered environment, or are still deciding whether foreign policy, law, government, economics, or another related direction will be your eventual focus. For a clearly defined interest in diplomacy and day-to-day exposure to U.S. foreign-policy institutions, GW has the more direct academic and experiential advantage.