Fairfax County Public Schools Expands Partnership with George Mason University’s Direct Admissions Program
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and George Mason University (George Mason) are expanding a partnership that will streamline the path to higher education for high school students through a Direct Admissions Program. This program will provide qualified FCPS students with automatic admission to George Mason, simplifying the college application process and creating new opportunities for academic and career success.
The partnership is designed to increase access to higher education, particularly for students who may face barriers in navigating the traditional college admissions process. In its first year, FCPS’ Class of 2024 at five high schools were invited by George Mason to participate: Annandale, Falls Church, Herndon, Justice, and Mount Vernon. More than 600 students received offers through this direct admissions opportunity.
The partnership is continuing this year with an additional four FCPS high schools being added for the Class of 2025: Edison, Fairfax, Lewis, and West Potomac. In order to be eligible for the GMU Direct Admissions Program, students must attend a partner school and have a 3.25 or higher cumulative grade point average as of the end of their junior year.
Eligible students will receive information about their automatic acceptance into George Mason, along with guidance on next steps, financial aid, and academic support resources. By removing the complexities of the traditional college application process, such as application fees, essays, and letters of recommendation, and providing targeted support through workshops and events, the program is expected to increase enrollment, particularly among first-generation college students and those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Students interested in applying to the George Mason Honors College, as well as specific majors such as engineering, nursing, and visual and performing arts, are required to provide supplemental application materials or have taken specific courses. Students and families can find additional details about these majors on the George Mason website.
George Mason offers two application deadlines: November 1 – Nonbinding early action and February 1 – Regular decision. While admission through the Direct Admission Program is not contingent on either deadline, students interested in applying to the Honors College or who want to be considered for merit scholarships should apply by November 1.
Visit the George Mason Direct Admissions Program webpage for more information.
