Student FAQs

General education is the foundation of every student’s undergraduate education. The skills, knowledge, and experience students develop in their Mason Core courses will impact them in their majors, their careers, and their lives. These essential skills help to cultivate a well-rounded education that is crucial to the college experience. Read more about Mason Core requirements and how Mason Core supports your career goals.

Review the course description in the University Catalog, talk to students who have taken the course, and assess how the course aligns with your goals. Make sure you also check in with your advisor so you know you’re on track.

Reach out to your professor or TAs, and ask about potential study groups in your class. Look into what’s available through the university’s student success resources, tutoring support, and learning services. Read more about how to get help.

Mix challenging courses with lighter ones to manage workload effectively. Schedule time for coursework and extracurriculars so that you’re less likely to burn out, and take advantage of university resources as needed, such as the Writing Center, tutoring opportunities, and other student support services. Read more about how to get help.

It depends on your major. You should always work with your academic advisor when registering for classes, and refer to your specific major’s degree requirements to make sure you don’t miss an important course requirement.

Maybe. George Mason awards academic credit for qualifying AP exam scores, and some AP credits may satisfy specific Mason Core requirements if the AP exam is equivalent to a George Mason course that fulfills a Mason Core requirement. The exact credit and any Mason Core fulfillment depend on the AP subject and your exam score.

To see how your AP exams transfer, review the Academic Credit by Exam chart and check the course equivalencies listed for your AP scores. If you have questions about how your credits apply to your degree or Mason Core requirements, consult your academic advisor.

Transfer students should work closely with their academic advisor to determine how their prior credits will impact their Mason Core requirements. If you haven’t been assigned an advisor, check out the Exploratory Advising or Transfer Advising options.

Please note that all Integration-level requirements must be completed at George Mason and generally cannot be satisfied through transfer credit. These courses are integral to the university’s educational philosophy and ensure that all graduates demonstrate proficiency in writing, critical thinking, and integrative learning consistent with the university’s standards. Please work with your advisor if you have any questions about your transfer credit.