Summer FAQs
- How often do summer classes meet?
Each class is different, but many classes meet Monday–Thursday for 90 minutes. Classes taught in the evening often meet twice a week for 2½ hours. Most online courses do not meet at specific times.
- Do summer classes count for all the same requirements as Fall & Spring classes?
Yes, the only difference between summer classes and fall/spring classes is that most summer classes are only 6 weeks long. You do the same amount of work, but earn credits faster.
- How many credits can I take over the summer?
Since summer sessions are only 6 weeks long, we recommend that students take no more than 2 courses per session, or 12 credits total.
- What do summer courses cost?
Undergraduate and graduate summer tuition rates are charged by the credit hour and may vary by program and location. Depending upon how much financial aid a student receives during the regular school year, this may actually be less expensive than the same class taken during the school year.
- Undergraduate tuition: Individual undergraduate summer classes, both on campus and online, are charged at the current part-time tuition rate. Some institutes may have reduced tuition.
- Graduate tuition: Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location. Visit the graduate tuition page, then select your school to determine the tuition rate for your program.
Visiting students are charged non-degree tuition rates, which are also billed by credit hour.
Discounted tuition rates may be available to Summer Institute participants. Check individual institutes for details.
Please note: a Student Association Fee of $2.50 per credit hour is also assessed. Some exceptions may apply for specific programs.
- Is financial aid available during the summer?
For most students, financial aid, including federal student loans, unfortunately, is not available during the summer. Veterans and members of the military may be eligible for Yellow Ribbon or other veterans’ and military benefits.
All students should check with the Office of Student Financial Assistance to see if there is assistance for which they may qualify.
Undergraduate CCAS students may be eligible for a CCAS Dean's Summer Scholarship.
Veterans may wish to talk to the Office of Military and Veteran Student Services.
Additionally, some Summer Institutes, which require multiple courses, offer discounted tuition rates to all participants. See the individual institutes for details.
- Are summer classes noted any differently on the transcript than classes taken during the regular school year?
No.
- Are summer and online courses counted as being taken in residence?
Yes. There is no academic difference between summer classes whether on-campus or online and the same classes taught during the regular school year.
- I am pre-med, should I take pre-med science classes over the summer?
While the classes are academically the same as courses taken during the regular school year, some medical schools may not look favorably upon science classes taken over the summer. If you have not done so already, please consult with the GW Pre-Health Advisors.
- Can non-GW students take GW summer classes?
Yes, non-GW students can find information on how to register on the GW Summer & Non-Degree Programs website.
More Questions? Talk to an Advisor