Your New Home: A Top U.S. City

As the capital city of the United States, Washington, DC (or just “DC”), has a global feel that welcomes everyone. No other place offers everything you need with a uniquely American atmosphere that also embraces international visitors. Food from home? Mild winters and warm summers? Cool places to study? You’ll find it all in DC.

In just one day, you could work on a group project in a trendy cafe, walk by the White House, eat dinner in Chinatown, and then go to a professional baseball game.

Washington Monument at Sunrise

What’s Popular with International Students?

World-Famous Museums

The famous Smithsonian Institute includes 19 museums, all with free admission. For even more adventure, check out the International Spy Museum.

Active Politics

DC is all about American and international politics. With the federal government, many embassies, and global non-profit organizations all located here, there are many opportunities to learn and get involved.

Live Events

Whether you call it football or soccer, DC has it (and four more professional sports teams). Prefer live music, performing arts, or inspiring lectures? DC has them, too.

Delicious Food

Late night hamburgers. Fresh seafood. Authentic Ethiopian meals. DC loves food, and you’ll find lots of American and international places that fit any craving or budget.

Cool Neighborhoods

The safe and fun Tenleytown area near campus. Hipster Shaw. Historic and upscale Georgetown. Busy and exciting Dupont Circle. You’ll love exploring DC.

Life on Campus

AU offers a safe and welcoming community in a big and exciting city. The American campus is in the Northwest area of Washington, DC, where you’ll find embassies and upscale neighborhoods. New friends, delicious food, and fun adventures are right outside your door.

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DC Metro

Travel and Transportation

Want to get around the neighborhood, the city, and the U.S.? Here are just a few of the ways to explore your new home.

 

City Transportation

  • Metro — Several buses and the train will take you to Chinatown, museums, and more.
  • Bicycles — Bicycle parking is everywhere on campus, and there are even tire pumps, too.
  • Zipcar — Hourly or daily car rentals for running errands or having fun around DC.
  • Lyft or Uber — Mobile apps that make it easy to order a car and driver.

 

Airports

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport — 20 minutes from campus. 10 airlines.
  • Dulles International Airport — 40 minutes from campus. 38 airlines.
  • Baltimore/Washington International Airport — 60 minutes from campus. 16 airlines.

 

National Trains and Buses

  • Amtrak — Convenient trains to New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, and the rest of the U.S.
  • Greyhound — Comfortable and affordable buses to cities all around the country.