GW vs Occidental
How GW and Occidental stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| GW | Occidental | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 47% | 45% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1360-1470 | 1290-1470 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | DC | CA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $84,290 | $80,362 |
| Average cost after aid | $45,466 | $48,400 |
| Supplemental essays | 2 | 1 |
- Occidental is harder to get into than GW (45% versus 47%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, GW is usually the cheaper option ($45,466 versus $48,400 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- GW asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
GW vs Occidental FAQ
Is GW or Occidental harder to get into?
Occidental is harder to get into, admitting about 45% of applicants versus 47% at GW.
Is GW or Occidental cheaper?
After financial aid, GW is usually cheaper, about $45,466 per year on average versus $48,400 at Occidental.
See your real chances at GW and Occidental.
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