This program is for new international undergraduate students who meet George Mason’s academic admission requirements but have slightly below the required English language proficiency.
Students begin with one semester as George Mason Gateway students but with a direct entry I-20. During that semester, they take a combination of English language, transition, and degree-applicable courses. There are no additional progression requirements beyond maintaining good academic standing.
Admission
Admission to undergraduate Gateway programs is offered to international and multilingual students by two methods:
- By applying directly through the Gateway admissions process
- By referral from the University Admissions Office due to not having met the grade point average, English language proficiency, or other requirements for direct admission.
Freshman International Direct entry requirements are as follows:
- High school diploma
- 2.9 minimum high school GPA equivalent based on the applicant's country/institutional scale
- Documentation demonstrating the minimum English language proficiency levels:
- TOEFL iBT 70 (15 minimum subscores in all skills)
- NEW TOEFL iBT 4.0 (3.5 all subscores)
- IELTS 6.0 (5.5 minimum subscores in all skills)
- PTE Academic 53
- Duolingo 100
- Successful completion of or waiver from Academic English Level 5
Progression into Degree Status
Freshman International Direct students follow the university policy for good academic standing. These students progress automatically without further matriculation review.
Reenrollment and Readmission
Due to the nature of Gateway programs as both English language development and academic coursework, students are subject to a limited reenrollment policy. Students who do not enroll after the first term or withdraw for reasons other than poor academic performance may request to reenroll in a Gateway program the following term (e.g., spring) to continue making progress toward meeting program requirements, with advance permission from the Executive Director. Students who do not enroll for two consecutive terms (e.g., spring and fall) must apply for readmission to the program and be re-assessed for language proficiency. Summer terms are counted for students whose initial enrollment begins in Spring semester.
Available Programs and Majors
Freshman International Direct students are eligible to declare majors in any of George Mason's colleges per each college's major declaration requirements.
Required Courses