George Mason University

George Mason is Virginia's largest public research university, in Fairfax just outside Washington DC, with more than 75 undergraduate programmes across four campuses and recognised strength in computing, engineering, data analytics, cybersecurity and public policy. Its international merit provision is automatic — all admitted applicants are considered with no separate form, and awards are renewable for up to four years for first-year students — but Mason describes the number available as limited. Two requirements are more demanding than at most public universities. Mason's Certification of Financial Resources requires self-funded students to show funds on deposit for the full term of their programme rather than for one year, and health insurance is compulsory for all F-1 and J-1 students with the cost automatically billed to the student account on registration. Applying by 1 November secures maximum scholarship consideration.