Study in Washington DC, District of Columbia

Explore universities and programs in Washington DC, District of Columbia for international students.

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A cityscape of Washington DC, District of Columbia in the USA featuring iconic elements of Washington DC, District of Columbia's architectural landmarks.

Key facts

  • Summer/winter temperature
    80/36°F
  • Population
    633,427
  • Country
    US
  • Universities
    20

Why study in Washington DC, District of Columbia?

Washington DC is famous as the capital of the US, and its political center. It’s home to some of the country’s most iconic buildings and monuments, including the White House, the Capitol Building, Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial.

Washington is also home to a number of prestigious and well-known universities, making it a popular destination for students from all over the world. The city has teams in all four major professional men’s sports, numerous museums, arts centers, and other cultural attractions for students to enjoy, meaning you’ll never be bored studying in Washington.

Illustration of famous landmarks and cultural items from the USA, interconnected on a map-like layout with trees and clouds.

Universities in Washington DC, District of Columbia

There are more than 20 universities and other higher education institutions in DC, including a number of research universities, master’s universities, medical schools and law schools. The variety of options available to students makes Washington a popular and diverse destination.

What to study in Washington DC, District of Columbia

There’s a huge choice when it comes to university programs in Washington, so there’s a good chance you’ll find one that’s right for you.

Washington DC is well-known and highly-regarded for its medical schools and research institutions, so is a popular destination for students studying medicine and other medical degrees.

Explore programs in Washington DC, District of Columbia

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What is the cost of study in Washington DC, District of Columbia?

Tuition fees in Washington DC are comparable with the rest of the US, and you can expect to pay between $15,000 and $50,000 per year.

Washington is considered one of the most expensive cities in the US to live in, especially for rent and accommodation. You can save by choosing to live in university accommodation rather than renting privately.

Illustration representing studying costs, featuring symbols like a calculator, stacks of money, and hands exchanging cash, all surrounded by a building resembling a university, books and a diploma scroll.

What is the cost of living in Washington DC, District of Columbia?

Local figures aren't available yet — values reflect USA-wide averages.

Category Cost  (in United States Dollar)
Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre$1,652Range: $1,046 to $4,269
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre$1,349Range: $891 to $2,857
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)$214Range: $130 to $400
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)$73Range: $50 to $110
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)$61Range: $30 to $110
Monthly public transport pass$65Range: $35 to $138
Monthly grocery basket$350Range: $250 to $500
Coffee shop drink$5Range: $3 to $9
Cinema or cultural event ticket$15Range: $11 to $23
Gym membership$45Range: $20 to $135

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from numbeo.com (Crowdsourced).

How to study in Washington DC, District of Columbia

Before you can study in Washington, you’ll first need to choose where and what you want to study. When you apply you'll need to make sure you meet the entry requirements set out by the university you’re applying to.

Most universities will have a different application process, but you’ll probably need to complete an application form, and submit this with any other documents they request together with a personal statement and references.

You'll also need to make sure you have the correct visa before you can study in Washington. After you’ve had confirmation of your place, you can apply for your US student visa - here’s how.