Admissions

Q: What is the average GPA or GRE of your accepted students?

A: The program does not publish admissions GPA or GRE data. Please note that we evaluate each application holistically to ascertain an individual’s readiness to pursue our fast-paced and rigorous peace and conflict studies program. GRE scores are recommended but not required for applicants.

Q: What does it mean that GRE scores are recommended but not required?

A: If you have taken the GRE and want to submit your scores, we welcome your submission. If the GRE score can tell us something about your record and your potential to succeed in the program that your other materials do not, then we want to take your scores into account when considering your application. However, if you do not wish to take the test or submit your scores, we consider applications complete without the inclusion of GRE scores.

Q: How many students apply and are accepted into the program each year?

A: We are a competitive program. Our admissions statistics are not public and vary with each academic year.

Q: Where do I send my official test scores and transcripts?

A: Applicants should follow the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences application submission requirements as published on their website (Link to Graduate School application submission requirements).

Q: How do I submit my official recommendations?

A: When you apply via the Graduate School’s online application system, you will be guided through this process.

Q: What should I say in my Statement of Purpose?

A: We are looking for applicants with a passion to study conflict resolution with us at Georgetown who can successfully demonstrate that they can handle the rigor and pace of our program. Applicants should outline how their academic and professional experience has prepared them for a graduate-level peace and conflict studies program. Additionally, applicants should share how a peace and conflict studies degree would help them advance their personal and professional goals.

Q: Do you require an interview?

A: No, this is not a requirement for admission to our program.

Q: Do I need work experience to apply to the CR program?

A: No, prior work experience is not an admissions requirement. Competitive applicants demonstrate how their professional experience, volunteer work, and/or extracurricular activities are aligned with the academic and professional fields that the program represents.

Q: Does the academic writing sample need to be 10 – 20 pages in length?

A: Yes, please submit one 10 – 20 page academic research paper that best demonstrates your writing skills. This should be a single-authored paper rather than a paper published with co-authors. This paper should also demonstrate your ability to use scholarly citations properly.

Q: My transcript is in another language, what should I do?

A: Please see the Graduate School’s application submission instructions for guidance on submitting international transcripts.

Q: When will I be notified if I’ve been offered admission to the program?

A: It takes us several weeks after the January 15th deadline to read all of the application materials we receive. We aim to submit all decisions by the end of March.

Q: Is it possible to defer admission?

A: Yes, if you are accepted, you can apply for deferral via the GSAS Deferral Form. You may defer for up to two academic years.

Q: I have additional questions about the application process, where can I find answers?

A: Please consult the Graduate School’s FAQs page. 

Q: Can you offer financial assistance for my travel to Admitted Student Open House?

A: No, we are not budgeted to cover your expenses. We host a virtual event for admitted students who can’t attend the open house in person.

Q: When is orientation?

A: New students have various orientation events to attend. First, students in our program have two mandatory full-day orientation sessions before classes start. The program has its first orientation session a week before classes start, which will be August 19, 2026. Then, the Department of Government has an orientation session for all of its MA students on Monday, August 24, 2026. Additionally, there are orientation events hosted by the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Lastly, the

Q: When does the program start?

A: Classes begin on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

Q: Where can I find an academic calendar?

A: The Main Campus academic calendar can be found on the Office of the University Registrar’s website.

Q: When do I register for Fall classes?

A: Admitted students will register for classes in June. The program will contact students over the summer to provide registration instructions. The schedule of classes is publicly listed on the University Registrar’s website.

Q: Where can I find information about housing?

A: Washington DC can be a challenging place to find suitable housing, so start your search early. Moreover, student housing for graduate students is limited. Contact the Off-Campus Housing Office in the Office of Neighborhood Life via email at guochrs@georgetown.edu or visit their website.

Q: I didn’t receive a merit scholarship for the upcoming academic year, can I still receive program funding?

A: No, we have already offered our budgeted aid for the academic year. Students are only eligible for aid during their first year in the program.

Q: If I defer my acceptance, will I be reconsidered for the following year?

A: If you defer you will have a spot in the incoming class of the following year, should you choose to take it up.

Q: What is the cost of the Master of Arts Degree in Conflict Resolution?

A: Georgetown University charges tuition based on the total number of credits a student takes in a given semester. Our program consists of 34 credits. Students who follow the normative progression for the degree distribute these credits over four consecutive semesters. A detailed cost of attendance estimate, including tuition and associated fees, can be found on the University’s Office of Student Financial Aid Cost of Attendance page under the “Arts and Sciences” tab. When estimating your tuition costs, keep in mind that the average, full-time CR student takes 25 credits in the first year of study (fall, spring, and summer semesters) and 9 credits in the second year (fall semester).

Q: What are other options for funding my education?

A: Many CR students find external scholarship funding through their own research. The Georgetown University Office of Fellowships, Awards, and Resources has helped students secure funding. The Graduate School also has information resources on their website for students seeking external funding.

Q: I see a financial hold on my account – who do I contact to clear the hold or discuss where the hold is coming from?

A: For Financial Aid questions, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid. All students are assigned a financial aid officer to help answer their financial aid questions.