The Admissions Process: Your Path to D.C.

Your journey to a transformative quarter in Washington, D.C. begins here. This page serves as your comprehensive guide to our admissions process, from understanding how rolling admissions works to what to expect after you apply. Use the links below to navigate to the section that interests you most.

How Rolling Admissions Benefits You

We accept applications on a rolling basis for the upcoming academic year, with reviews conducted on the first of each month. While we encourage you to apply early, all applications must be submitted by the final deadline. Please consult our Final Application Deadlines page for all important dates. Submissions will not be accepted after the posted deadline.

While acceptance is on a first-come, first-served basis for all who meet the minimum criteria, applying early gives you a significant advantage. We highly recommend that you do not wait until the final deadline, as programs may fill up, especially for the popular summer quarter. Please see our Final Application Deadlines page to view final submission dates and check which quarters are still open.

Preparation for Admitted Students

Once you're accepted, your preparation begins immediately. We host exclusive, voluntary monthly sessions for all admitted students, regardless of which future quarter they will be attending. These sessions provide a head start on your preparation, covering topics such as:

  • A detailed introduction to the internship search process and available tools.
  • Personalized advising on resumes and cover letters.
  • Actionable strategies for last-minute resume-building activities.
  • An open Q&A forum to address any questions and connect with other students.

Core Application Requirements

To ensure all participants are set up for success, we have several core requirements for acceptance:

  • A complete application, including essay responses that demonstrate effort.
  • Good standing with the University and no current Office of Student Support and Judicial Affairs actions.
  • Meeting minimum GPA requirements.
  • A minimum of two work, volunteer, or internship experiences.

Flexible Housing Contract

We want you to be confident in your decision. That's why, regardless of when you are admitted, you are not required to sign a binding housing contract until the week before your cohort's welcome event, giving you maximum planning flexibility.

Application Status: Waitlists

After the program has reached capacity for a given term, eligible students will be waitlisted pending availability in the program. Waitlisted students may participate in all workshops and will be notified if there has been an opening in the program.