Washington Semester Program, Washington, DC - American University

Washington Semester Admissions


How to Apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but we recommend applying as early as possible as there are a limited number of spots for each program. It is never too early to secure an internship, and once you have been accepted and commit to experiencing Washington D.C. you gain access to our extensive internship database! Also, some internships require considerable lead time for security screening and processing.

Don’t wait – reserve your space today!

1. Determine if your home school is an affiliated member school.

a. If your institution is listed, speak with your member representative to receive your recommendation and an application.

b. If your school is not a member school,
click here to access the application.

2. Make a list of any clubs, organizations and/or hobbies in which you participate as well as any leadership experience.

3 .Request a transcript to be sent from your institution to our office.

Our office works hard to make sure that you receive an admission decision quickly so you should hear back from us within two to three weeks.


If you have any questions
about the application process, please contact:

Shannon Dempster
Assistant Director of Admissions
washsem@american.edu
(800) 424-2600

If you are checking for the receipt of your application and/or transcript,contact the Dean’s office at
(800) 424-2600.

Member Schools

Washington Semester has formal affiliations with over 200 U.S. colleges and universities and an additional 40 international institutes of higher education. These schools recognize the academic importance of experiential education and have chosen the Washington Semester as a program of choice for their students.

This means that students from member schools are guaranteed that their Washington Semester credits will be transferred toward their degree and that financial aid from their home school travels with them. Member Schools have designated Washington Semester representatives on campus. Students can contact their school's faculty representative for information and to be nominated for admission into the program.

We welcome students from non-member schools as well! In fact, we are delighted to have nearly 100 students each semester from non-member schools. Students from these schools must confirm through their home school that the credits will transfer and speak with their financial aid office regarding transfer of aid.


Program Costs, Scholarships
& Financial Aid


Tuition arrangements differ between member schools. Some students pay tuition to their home schools while others pay tuition directly to the Washington Semester Program. Non-member school students, on the other hand, all pay tuition and other fees directly to the Washington Semester Program.

Because tuition arrangements differ, you will receive a detailed cost sheet with your information packet in the mail. In addition to current tuition, this cost sheet outlines expenses for housing, meal plan options, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Request Program Cost Info

Dean's Scholarship

Work Awards

Federal Financial Aid