Getting Started

Step 1: Make Note of Your GWID

Your GWID can be found in your admission letter and is used to log into GWeb, the university system that you will use to register for courses, view your grades, and access your student account. Your initial “PIN” is your date of birth in a MM-DD-YY format. If you cannot find your GWID, please visit the GWID retrieval website.

Visit the GWeb site

Retrieve Your GWID

Step 2: Set Up Your UserID

Your UserID is a username that provides access to various university systems. Please create your UserID as soon as possible. You will need your GWID, found in your admission letter, to create your UserID. All official communication from GWU will come to your GW email address. Please check this account regularly or forward it to your personal account.

Create Your UserID

Step 3: GW Email

GWmail is the university's email system for faculty and staff. GWmail features enhanced storage capabilities and access to GWCalendar. You may access GWmail by visiting the myGW Portal, selecting "email" in the left side menu, and then selecting "Go to GWmail." Log in with your GW UserID and password. GW uses two-step authentication in conjunction with GW Google apps (email, calendar, drive, etc.)

Visit the MyGW Portal to Access Your Email

Learn About Two-Step Authentication

Resources

Learn the difference between a UserID and a GWmail account

Configure GWmail on an iPad or iPhone

Step 4: Update Your Contact Information in GWeb

All students must update their current address and phone number upon arriving on campus via GWeb. In addition, it is strongly suggested that you provide an emergency contact that we would be able to reach out to in the case of emergencies.

Visit the GWeb site

Step 5: Apply for Financial Aid

Domestic graduate students generally apply for Federal Stafford Loans, Graduate PLUS loans, or private loans to fund their education. Federal Stafford and Graduate PLUS loans require students to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For more information, visit the Office of Student Financial Assistance website.

Visit the Office of Student Financial Assistance

Step 6: Submit Your Mandatory Health Form

Please visit Student Health Services to complete the mandatory immunization record form. For questions, please email [email protected] or call 202-994-5300 and select option #3.

Visit Student Health Services

Step 7: Register with Disability Support Services

GW is committed to providing equal access for all students. That access is often facilitated through the implementation of formal disability accommodations. Students who need accommodation must register with Disability Support Services to ensure that your accommodations are appropriately and efficiently communicated to university faculty and other necessary parties, including GW Housing, Student Health or other relevant parts of university operations.

Register with Disability Support Services

Step 8: International Students (F/J-1 Visa Holders)

International Students (F-1 or J-1 visa holders) must complete the mandatory in-person check-in upon arrival to GW at the International Student Services Office (ISO). If you have any questions, please visit the ISO’s website or contact Global & Experiential Education at [email protected].

Visit the International Student Services Office

Print Form I-94

Step 9: Technology Resources

GW Information Technology has many valuable technology services for students that are very important components of a successful academic and social experience at the university. For more information about Blackboard, email, GWeb, and free downloadable software, visit the GW Information Technology website.

For additional IT support, you may also reach out to the GWSB Office of Information Technology Services, located the 2nd floor of Duquès Hall,  at [email protected] or 202-994-4972.

Step 10: Visit the Graduate Student Landing Page

The Current Graduate Student landing page is your one-stop shop for information you will need to successfully complete your degree requirements. Students should take a moment to tour the website prior to arrival.

Visit the Graduate Student Landing Page