7 Critical Updates For GW Students: Mastering The Office Of The Registrar In 2025-2026

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The George Washington University Office of the Registrar is the central nervous system for every student’s academic journey, managing everything from course enrollment to final degree conferral. As of today, December 19, 2025, the office is fully operational in preparation for the upcoming Spring and Summer sessions, with key dates for the 2025-2026 academic calendar already published and crucial policy updates in effect. Understanding the latest procedures, especially regarding the GWeb Information System and new registration timelines, is essential for every student—from incoming Colonials to those preparing for graduation. The Registrar’s office is dedicated to maintaining the integrity of academic records from your first day of enrollment through to graduation and beyond. Their services are constantly being refined to improve efficiency, with the latest updates focusing on digital access, streamlined forms, and clear communication regarding the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This comprehensive guide breaks down the most critical and current information you need to successfully navigate your academic career at GW.

The Core Mission and Latest 2025-2026 Academic Updates

The Office of the Registrar is the official custodian of all student education records at The George Washington University. Their responsibilities span a wide range of administrative and academic functions that directly impact your status as a student.

Key Services Provided by the Registrar:

  • Registration Management: Handling all aspects of course registration, including waitlists, closed course overrides, and Consortium Registration.
  • Academic Records: Maintaining official student records, transcripts, and degree audits.
  • Graduation and Diplomas: Processing graduation applications and issuing official diplomas.
  • Policy Compliance: Ensuring adherence to the University Bulletin and federal regulations like FERPA.
  • Scheduling: Managing classroom scheduling and the official academic calendar.

Critical 2025-2026 Academic Calendar Dates:

Staying ahead of the official academic calendar is the most important step in a successful semester. The Registrar’s office has confirmed the following key dates for the 2025-2026 year:
  • Fall Semester 2025 Classes Begin: Monday, August 25, 2025.
  • Fall 2025 Graduate Registration: Registration opened on March 27, 2025, at 9 AM for all degree-seeking graduate students.
  • Summer Sessions 2025 Registration: Opened on Monday, March 17, 2025.
  • Last Day for Consortium Registration: Friday, August 29, 2025.

These dates are crucial for planning your course load, securing your place in high-demand classes, and managing any cross-registration opportunities.

Your Digital Hub: Mastering the GWeb Information System

The GWeb Information System, often referred to as Banner Self Service, is the primary online portal for managing your academic life and interacting with the Registrar’s office. Accessing GWeb requires your GWid number and is essential for nearly all self-service functions.

Essential GWeb Functions for Students:

The GWeb portal is your one-stop shop for student records, financial information, and registration.

  • Course Registration: Students register for classes directly through GWeb, including managing course waitlists. When a seat opens in a waitlisted course, the first student receives a notification to their official GW email address.
  • View Unofficial Transcripts: You can quickly access and view your unofficial transcripts through the system.
  • Check for Holds: It is vital to regularly check for holds on your student account within GWeb, as these can prevent registration or transcript requests.
  • Personal Information Updates: While some changes require a form, basic personal information can often be updated through the Personal Information Menu in GWeb.
  • Degree Audit: Accessing your degree audit through GWeb allows you to track your progress toward graduation and ensure all requirements are being met.

Navigating Registration Forms and Overrides:

While GWeb handles most standard registration, special circumstances require specific forms, which can be submitted in person at the Student Services Hub or emailed to registrar@gwu.edu.

  • Registration Transaction Form (RTF-EZ): This is the primary form used for registration overrides, such as obtaining an Instructor/Department Approval, bypassing a Pre-requisite Override, or registering for a closed course.
  • Columbian College of Arts and Sciences (CCAS) Students: CCAS students must email their RTF-EZs directly to the Registrar's Office using their official GW email, as the CCAS Advising Office cannot process them.

Essential Registrar Services: Transcripts, Diplomas, and FERPA Compliance

Beyond registration, the Registrar’s office is responsible for the official documentation that verifies your academic achievements and protects your privacy.

Requesting Official Transcripts and Diplomas:

Whether you are applying to graduate school or a new job, you will need your official academic record. The process is now highly streamlined:

  • Official Transcripts: Requests for official transcripts are processed online. You have the option to have them sent via secure PDF, regular mail, or expedited delivery via FedEx. The George Washington University partners with Parchment to facilitate this secure and efficient delivery service.
  • Unofficial Transcripts: These can be viewed and printed instantly through the GWeb Information System.
  • Duplicate Diplomas: Requests for a duplicate diploma can also be submitted through the online request system.

Understanding and Adhering to FERPA:

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The Registrar’s office strictly enforces the university’s Privacy of Student Records Policy.

  • Your Rights: FERPA gives you the right to inspect and review your education records, request an amendment to records you believe are inaccurate, and control the disclosure of personally identifiable information.
  • Directory Information: The university is permitted to disclose "directory information" (such as name, address, and dates of attendance) unless you specifically request that this information be withheld by submitting a FERPA Consent to Release Information form.
  • Law Enforcement: Even with law enforcement officials, the university’s policy is to protect student records in accordance with FERPA guidelines.

Enrollment Verification and Certifications:

For purposes like loan deferment, insurance, or employment, you may need official verification of your enrollment or degree. The Registrar’s office handles these requests, including specific forms for Club and Team enrollment verification.

Need Assistance? Contact the Student Services Hub

For in-person assistance, questions, or to submit physical forms, students should visit the Student Services Hub. The Student Financial and Registration Services team is the main point of contact for registrar-related inquiries, offering comprehensive support. You can reach them by phone at 202-994-4900 or via email at registrar@gwu.edu.

7 Critical Updates for GW Students: Mastering the Office of the Registrar in 2025-2026
gw office of the registrar
gw office of the registrar

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