Georgia State University: Courses, Fees, Rankings, Scholarship & More
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If you’re aiming for a vibrant student experience in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia State University (GSU) should definitely be on your shortlist for 2025. With over 52,000 students from more than 130 countries, GSU mixes strong academics with an energetic and urban lifestyle. It is perfect for international students seeking both professional growth and cultural exposure.
It is a Tier 1 research institution, recognized for its top-ranked public affairs, public health, and business programs. It’s also ranked among the top 10 most innovative universities in the US by U.S. News & World Report. The university has invested heavily in data-driven student support, helping to increase graduation rates by over 60% in the past decade. Following is the quick snapshot of Georgia State University:
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1913 |
| Campus Size | 100+ acres (Downtown Atlanta) |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | 801–1000 globally |
| Campus Locations | Atlanta, GA (Main + 6 Perimeter Colleges) |
| Placement Rate | Over 85% within 6 months of graduation |
| Top Recruiters | Delta Airlines, Coca-Cola, CDC, Deloitte, Microsoft |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Business Analytics, Law, Public Health, Data Science |
| English Language Exam Required | IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo English Test |
| Georgia State University Acceptance Rate | ~78% (Moderately Selective) |
| Annual Tuition Fees (Intl Students) | USD 25,000 – 32,000 approx. |
| Website | www.gsu.edu |
Which Courses Are Popular at Georgia State University in 2025 and What Are Their Fees and Eligibility?
GSU is known for its wide variety of courses and a vibrant city-campus lifestyle. Whether you’re into business, health, technology, law, or media, there’s something here for everyone. One of the best things about GSU is that its courses are designed to help you get job-ready. In terms of cost, GSU offers options for every budget. Bachelor’s programs start from around ₹10 lakhs per year, and master’s or MBA programs go up to ₹49 lakhs depending on what you choose.
The good news? You don’t need to crack tough entrance exams. Just make sure you have a good academic background and meet the English language test requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE). Here’s a clear table showing Georgia State University popular courses, how much they cost, how long they take, and what you need to apply:
| Course Name | 1st Year Tuition & Duration | Eligibility & Accepted Exams |
| MS | INR 20–43 Lakhs | 11 months – 3 years | Bachelor’s in relevant field | IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 80–90, GRE/GMAT |
| MA | INR 6–43 Lakhs | 1–2 years | Bachelor’s degree | IELTS, TOEFL, GRE |
| MBA/PGDM | INR 20–49 Lakhs | 11 months – 3 years | Bachelor’s degree | IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 90+, GMAT/GRE |
| BA | INR 10–27 Lakhs | 2–5 years | 12th pass | IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 69+, PTE 53+ |
| BSc | INR 20–27 Lakhs | 2–5 years | 12th with Science | IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 69+, PTE 58+ |
| BBA | INR 20–27 Lakhs | 2–4 years | 12th with Commerce | IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 69+, PTE 53–58 |
| B.Ed | INR 20 Lakhs | 2–5 years | 12th pass | IELTS 6.0+ |
| BE/B.Tech | INR 10–27 Lakhs | 18 months – 5 years | 12th with Maths | IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 69+, PTE 53+, GRE |
| BJMC | INR 20–27 Lakhs | 2–4 years | 12th pass | IELTS 6.0+ |
| Executive MBA | INR 49 Lakhs | 17 months | Bachelor’s + work exp. | IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 90+ |
| LLM | INR 18–43 Lakhs | 18 months – 6 years | Bachelor’s in Law | IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL |
| BDS | INR 27 Lakhs | 2 years | 12th with Biology | IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 69+, PTE 53+ |
| MPA | INR 20–22 Lakhs | 2–4 years | Bachelor’s degree | IELTS, TOEFL |
| LLB | INR 27 Lakhs | 4 years | 12th pass | IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 69+, PTE 53+ |
Where Does Georgia State University Rank in 2025?
Georgia State University has been making waves in multiple national and global rankings. From being ranked #1 in the US for undergraduate teaching among public universities to breaking into the top spots for innovation, social mobility, and learning communities, GSU continues to prove its commitment to student success.
Globally, it’s placed between #801–1000 in the QS World University Rankings and #401 in the Times Higher Education rankings, showing consistent improvement in academic reputation and research impact. Within the U.S., GSU stands tall at #196 in the U.S. News National Universities ranking, and shines even brighter in niche areas like business, nursing, and IT programs. Following are the key details of Georgia State University rankings:
| Ranking Body | Category | Rank (2025) | Highlights |
| QS World University Rankings | Global Ranking | #801–1000 | Reflects international reputation in academics and research |
| THE (Times Higher Ed) | Global University Ranking | #401 | Improved global standing based on research, teaching & international outlook |
| U.S. News & World Report | National Universities (U.S.) | #196 | Solid mid-tier national ranking across all disciplines |
| Undergraduate Teaching (Public Universities) | #1 | Ranked No. 1 for 5 years in a row for excellence in undergrad teaching | |
| Innovation (National Universities) | #2 | Consistently in top 5 for innovation over a decade | |
| Social Mobility | #15 | Strong support for first-gen and low-income students | |
| Learning Communities (Public Universities) | #1 | #1 public university in this category for 6 consecutive years | |
| First-Year Experience | #4 | Recognized for exceptional support during the first year of study | |
| Undergraduate Business (National) | #47 | Competitive undergraduate business curriculum | |
| Information Systems (UG Program) | #7 | Top 10 for IT-focused undergrad business specialization | |
| International Business (UG Program) | #24 | Newly ranked for global business exposure | |
| Nursing Program (UG) | #74 | Jumped 59 places from previous year | |
| Study Abroad Program | #27 | Strong global exposure and international learning opportunities | |
| Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects | #42 | Encourages UG participation in real-world projects and academic research |
How Competitive Is the Acceptance Rate at Georgia State University in 2025?
Georgia State University has a moderately selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 52% in 2025. That means just over half the applicants who apply are offered admission, making it accessible but still competitive, especially for popular programs like Business, Health Sciences, and Law. To boost your chances, it helps to know what the university is looking for. Most successful applicants have a high school GPA between 3.24 and 3.76.
If you’re submitting test scores, aim for an SAT score between 970 and 1210, or an ACT score between 19 and 26, which reflects the middle 50% of admitted students. Good news for test-optional applicants: Georgia State also admits students based solely on GPA, especially if you have a GPA of 3.4 or higher. This is helpful if you’re not planning to take the SAT or ACT.
Which Scholarships Can International Students Apply for at Georgia State University in 2025?
If you’re an international student heading to Georgia State University (GSU) in 2025, good news: there are multiple scholarships to ease your financial burden. While GSU doesn’t have blanket full scholarships for all international applicants, it does offer merit-based tuition waivers, program-specific awards, and access to external scholarships supported by private sponsors or home-country governments.
Whether you’re applying for undergraduate, graduate, or study abroad programs, here’s a list of the top scholarships you can explore at GSU- along with their coverage, eligibility, and estimated financial support:
| Scholarship / Fellowship | Coverage & Amount (Approx.) | Eligibility & Details |
| Campus Atlanta Scholarship | 50–100% out-of-state tuition waiver (worth up to $13,000/year) | Awarded to high-achieving international students during undergraduate/graduate admission at GSU |
| International Access Scholarship | $1,000 – $4,000 per study abroad term | Automatically applied to eligible GSU students participating in university-approved international programs |
| Departmental & College-Level Awards | Up to full tuition, varies by school/college | Requires separate application via GSU scholarship portal |
| WPN Scholarship (School of Public Health) | Full/partial tuition + other costs (varies yearly) | For students enrolled in Public Health; application closes June 30, 2025 |
| Education Future International Scholarship | ₹2–10 Lakh (USD $2,500 – $12,000) | Available for Indian students based on merit & financial need |
| Smooth Movers Scholarship | $1,000 one-time grant | Global applicants; submit short essay + proof of enrollment |
| Fulbright Foreign Student Program | Full tuition + monthly stipend + travel + health insurance | Sponsored by U.S. State Department; competitive, apply via your home country embassy |
| AAUW International Fellowship (Women Only) | $20,000 – $50,000 (Masters & Doctoral levels) | Women from all countries (except U.S.); must return to home country post-studies |
| Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation | Up to $20,000 (selective merit award) | Open to high-performing students with strong leadership background |
| Country-Specific Government Awards | Varies (₹5L–₹20L per year) | Offered by Indian, Chinese, Saudi, Nigerian, and other government bodies for study in the U.S. |
Where Can You Stay While Studying at Georgia State University in 2025?
Georgia State University (GSU) provides a wide range of student housing options, both on-campus and off-campus. Whether you’re a first-year student who prefers the convenience of living right on campus, or a returning student looking for more independence in downtown Atlanta, there’s something to suit every budget and lifestyle.
Located in Atlanta, GSU’s student accommodation options include well-managed residence halls, themed communities for global learners, and several modern off-campus choices. Plus, international students often prefer nearby purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) managed by platforms like University Living, which provide flexible lease terms, private kitchens, and community support. Here’s a breakdown of Georgia State University key accommodation options and estimated costs in 2025:
| Housing Type | Typical Monthly Cost (USD) | What’s Included |
| On-Campus Dorms | $1,200 – $1,450 | Fully furnished, with Wi-Fi, utilities, AC, shared or private bathrooms; meal plan available |
| Global Living-Learning Community (LLC) | Included in dorm rate | Offers special support for international students, peer mentoring, cultural events |
| GSU Off-Campus Housing (University Pointe) | ~$900 – $1,200 | Gated communities with shared kitchens, lounges, gym access, close to classrooms |
| Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (via University Living) | ~$450 – $950 (shared), $1,100+ (studio) | All bills included, ensuite rooms, fitness centers, study spaces, 24/7 security |
| Private Apartments (Shared) | $835 – $1,300 per person | Rent + utilities separate; best for roommates; some may be walking distance to campus |
| Private Studio/1-Bedroom Apartments | $1,400 – $1,995+ | Ideal for privacy seekers or couples; higher cost, not always student-focused |
| Homestays / Short-Term Housing | $700 – $1,100 | Meals, laundry, and utilities included; good for exchange or short-term students |
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about studying in the US, Georgia State University (GSU) is definitely worth considering. Located in downtown Atlanta, it offers more than 240 programs and is known for its career-focused teaching, affordable fees, and strong support for international students. Whether you’re into business, health, tech, law, or the arts, GSU gives you a great mix of learning and real-world experience. It’s also a friendly place where students from over 130 countries come to study. So, if you’re ready to take the next step in 2025, GSU could be the perfect place to grow your skills, meet new people, and build your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Georgia State University a good choice for international students?
Yes, absolutely! Georgia State is a well-regarded public university based in Atlanta, known for its strong academics and urban energy. With nearly 21,000 undergraduate students, it’s one of Georgia’s largest institutions. It consistently ranks among the top public universities in the US, especially for undergraduate teaching and innovation.
Is Georgia State University expensive?
Tuition costs vary depending on whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student:
1. In-state total cost (including tuition, housing, meals, etc.): Around $33,259/year
2. Out-of-state total cost: Approximately $52,297/year
However, international students may be eligible for merit-based tuition waivers that can significantly reduce these costs.
Does GSU offer scholarships for international students?
Yes! Georgia State offers the Campus Atlanta Scholarship, which provides:
100% or 50% out-of-state tuition waivers
This is available to high-achieving international students. While federal aid like FAFSA isn’t available to non-US citizens, GSU has departmental awards and access to external scholarships too.
What’s the acceptance rate at Georgia State University?
The current acceptance rate is around 52.5%, which means admissions are moderately selective. GSU looks at your GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and overall academic record, but the process is more flexible than at highly competitive universities.
What is Georgia State University best known for?
GSU is recognized nationally for:
1. Being #1 in undergraduate teaching (among public universities)
2. Ranking #2 for innovation in the US
3. Strong programs in business, law, public health, and IT
It’s also praised for boosting social mobility and supporting first-gen students.
How much is the application fee at Georgia State?
The application fee is $60 (non-refundable). Students can apply online through the Georgia State University application portal.
Is the GRE required at Georgia State University?
Yes, for most graduate programs, GSU requires GRE scores. The recommended minimum score is around 308 for competitive admissions, though some programs may waive the GRE based on your profile.
