Getting Started
- Step 1: Make Note of Your GWID
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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.
- Step 2: Set Up Your UserID
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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.
- Step 3: GW Email
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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
- Step 4: Update Your Contact Information in GWeb
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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.
- Step 5: Apply for Financial Aid
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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.
- Step 6: Submit Your Mandatory Health Form
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Please visit Colonial Health Services to complete the mandatory immunization record form. For questions, please email [email protected] or call 202-994-5300 and select option #3.
- Step 7: Register with Disability Support Services
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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.
- Step 8: International Students (F/J-1 Visa Holders)
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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].
- Step 9: Technology Resources
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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
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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.