Catholic School CompassTrue north for Catholic families.
George Mason University: Founders Hall and Hazel Hall at the Arlington Campus.
Photo: Photo by Alexis Glenn/Creative Services/George Mason University, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

College · Catholic life on campus

George Mason University

  • LocationFairfax, VA
  • Type and sizePublic · 4-year · 39,527 students
Official website
Campus Ministry Honor Roll badge

George Mason University is not a Catholic college. This rating measures Catholic life on campus: campus ministry, priests, Mass and confession, student groups, and nearby parishes.

GMU Catholic Campus Ministry (Catholic Patriots), an office of the Diocese of Arlington, is based at the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel and Catholic Campus Ministry Center at 4515 Roberts Road in Fairfax. Rev. Joseph Farrell is chaplain and director, with three lay campus ministers and a FOCUS team. During the academic year Mass is offered every weekday and four times each weekend, with confession four days a week.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 6

  • Saturday5:30 PMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel · Vigil Mass.
  • Sunday9:00 AMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel
  • Sunday11:00 AMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel
  • Sunday5:30 PMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel · Student Mass.
  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday12:00 PMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel · During the academic year; summer Masses depend on the chaplain's schedule.
  • Tuesday, Thursday5:00 PMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel · During the academic year; summer Masses depend on the chaplain's schedule.

Confession 4

  • Saturday4:30 PM–5:15 PMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel
  • Sunday10:00 AM–10:45 AMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel
  • Sunday4:00 PM–5:15 PMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel
  • Tuesday, Thursday4:00 PM–4:45 PMSt. Robert Bellarmine Chapel · During the academic year; also by appointment with the chaplain.

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 8, 2026.

Sources for these times (1)
  1. Mass/Confession — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/massconfession · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Saturday Vigil: 5:30pm Sunday: 9:00am, 11:00am, 5:30pm (Student Mass) All weekend Masses are at the Chapel.”
    Weekend Masses are Saturday 5:30 PM vigil and Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (Student Mass), all at the chapel.
    “Saturday Vigil: 5:30pm Sunday: 9:00am, 11:00am, 5:30pm (Student Mass) All weekend Masses are at the Chapel.”
    Weekend Masses are Saturday 5:30 PM vigil and Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (Student Mass), all at the chapel.
    “Saturday Vigil: 5:30pm Sunday: 9:00am, 11:00am, 5:30pm (Student Mass) All weekend Masses are at the Chapel.”
    Weekend Masses are Saturday 5:30 PM vigil and Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (Student Mass), all at the chapel.
    “Saturday Vigil: 5:30pm Sunday: 9:00am, 11:00am, 5:30pm (Student Mass) All weekend Masses are at the Chapel.”
    Weekend Masses are Saturday 5:30 PM vigil and Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (Student Mass), all at the chapel.
    “On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during the academic year, Masses are at 12:00pm at the Chapel. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during the academic year, Mass is always at 5:00pm in the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel.”
    During the academic year, Mass is offered every weekday at the chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 12:00 PM and Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00 PM.
    “On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during the academic year, Masses are at 12:00pm at the Chapel. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during the academic year, Mass is always at 5:00pm in the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel.”
    During the academic year, Mass is offered every weekday at the chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 12:00 PM and Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00 PM.
    “Saturday: 4:30pm - 5:15pm Sunday: 10:00am - 10:45am, 4:00pm - 5:15pm Tuesday/Thursday: 4:00pm - 4:45pm (during academic year) Mason and NVCC students can also make an appointment by contacting the Chaplain directly.”
    Confession is scheduled Saturday 4:30-5:15 PM, Sunday 10:00-10:45 AM and 4:00-5:15 PM, and Tuesday/Thursday 4:00-4:45 PM during the academic year, and by appointment with the chaplain.
    “Saturday: 4:30pm - 5:15pm Sunday: 10:00am - 10:45am, 4:00pm - 5:15pm Tuesday/Thursday: 4:00pm - 4:45pm (during academic year) Mason and NVCC students can also make an appointment by contacting the Chaplain directly.”
    Confession is scheduled Saturday 4:30-5:15 PM, Sunday 10:00-10:45 AM and 4:00-5:15 PM, and Tuesday/Thursday 4:00-4:45 PM during the academic year, and by appointment with the chaplain.
    “Saturday: 4:30pm - 5:15pm Sunday: 10:00am - 10:45am, 4:00pm - 5:15pm Tuesday/Thursday: 4:00pm - 4:45pm (during academic year) Mason and NVCC students can also make an appointment by contacting the Chaplain directly.”
    Confession is scheduled Saturday 4:30-5:15 PM, Sunday 10:00-10:45 AM and 4:00-5:15 PM, and Tuesday/Thursday 4:00-4:45 PM during the academic year, and by appointment with the chaplain.
    “Saturday: 4:30pm - 5:15pm Sunday: 10:00am - 10:45am, 4:00pm - 5:15pm Tuesday/Thursday: 4:00pm - 4:45pm (during academic year) Mason and NVCC students can also make an appointment by contacting the Chaplain directly.”
    Confession is scheduled Saturday 4:30-5:15 PM, Sunday 10:00-10:45 AM and 4:00-5:15 PM, and Tuesday/Thursday 4:00-4:45 PM during the academic year, and by appointment with the chaplain.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of George Mason University, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches1 mi2 mi3 miSaint Robert Bellarmine Chapel: 0.5 mi1Saint Mary of Sorrows Catholic Church: 1.5 mi2Saint Leo the Great Catholic Church: 1.6 mi3Saint Mary of Sorrows Historic Catholic Church: 2.3 mi4St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel & Catholic Campus Ministry Center: 0.4 miGeorge Mason University (campus)N1 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Saint Robert Bellarmine Chapel — 0.5 mi · 4515 Roberts Road, Fairfax
  2. Saint Mary of Sorrows Catholic Church — 1.5 mi · 10500 Zion Drive, Fairfax
  3. Saint Leo the Great Catholic Church — 1.6 mi · 3700 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax
  4. Saint Mary of Sorrows Historic Catholic Church — 2.3 mi · 5612 Ox Road

Within 3 miles, as mapped by OpenStreetMap contributors. The map may be incomplete. Confirm with the parish or diocese.

Catholic life scorecard

Each line is one thing we looked for. A check means yes, a half means partly, a dash means no. “Not enough information” means official sources did not say.

ACatholic life on campus: Strong (grade A): 85 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Catholic life on campus

96 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic campus ministry serving this campus (Catholic center, campus ministry, or chaplaincy)Yes (The Diocese of Arlington lists the George Mason University Catholic Campus Ministry; the ministry is also a registered student organization on GMU's Mason360 directory.)
    Sources (3)
    1. College Campus Ministry - Catholic Diocese of Arlingtonarlingtondiocese.org/college-campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “George Mason University Rev. Joseph Farrell, Chaplain and Director”
      The Diocese of Arlington lists a Catholic campus ministry at George Mason University with Rev. Joseph Farrell as chaplain and director.
    2. Frequently Asked Questions — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/campaignfaqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “As an office of the Chancery of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, the Diocese provides accounting services and auditing to ensure all donations are handled with care and in accord with the wishes of our donors.”
      GMU Catholic Campus Ministry is an office of the Chancery of the Diocese of Arlington.
    3. List of Groupsmason360.gmu.edu/club_signup · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The goal of Catholic Campus Ministry at George Mason University is to guide college students at GMU and NOVA into discipleship with Jesus Christ through the sacraments, friendship, formation, and works of service in the community, equipping them to build a lifelong mission.”
      Catholic Campus Ministry is a registered student organization at GMU serving students at GMU and Northern Virginia Community College.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Dedicated Catholic center or chapel on or next to campusYes (The ministry has its own building, the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel & Catholic Campus Ministry Center at 4515 Roberts Road, Fairfax, where all weekend and weekday Masses are held. Distance to campus is computed from the address.)
    Sources (3)
    1. College Campus Ministry - Catholic Diocese of Arlingtonarlingtondiocese.org/college-campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “George Mason University Rev. Joseph Farrell, Chaplain and Director”
      The Diocese of Arlington lists a Catholic campus ministry at George Mason University with Rev. Joseph Farrell as chaplain and director.
    2. Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “GMU Catholic Campus Ministry St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel 4515 Roberts Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032 gmuccm@gmail.com 703-425-0022”
      GMU Catholic Campus Ministry is located at the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel, 4515 Roberts Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032; email gmuccm@gmail.com, phone 703-425-0022.
    3. Mass/Confession — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/massconfession · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Saturday Vigil: 5:30pm Sunday: 9:00am, 11:00am, 5:30pm (Student Mass) All weekend Masses are at the Chapel.”
      Weekend Masses are Saturday 5:30 PM vigil and Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (Student Mass), all at the chapel.
      “On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during the academic year, Masses are at 12:00pm at the Chapel. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during the academic year, Mass is always at 5:00pm in the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel.”
      During the academic year, Mass is offered every weekday at the chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 12:00 PM and Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00 PM.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Priest chaplain assigned to campus ministryFull-time priest chaplain (The diocese lists Rev. Joseph Farrell as Chaplain and Director of the GMU campus ministry.)
    Sources (1)
    1. College Campus Ministry - Catholic Diocese of Arlingtonarlingtondiocese.org/college-campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “George Mason University Rev. Joseph Farrell, Chaplain and Director”
      The Diocese of Arlington lists a Catholic campus ministry at George Mason University with Rev. Joseph Farrell as chaplain and director.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Weekday Mass at the campus ministryEvery weekday (5 or more weekdays) (Monday, Wednesday, Friday 12:00 PM and Tuesday, Thursday 5:00 PM at the chapel during the academic year. In the summer, Masses depend on the chaplain's schedule.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass/Confession — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/massconfession · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during the academic year, Masses are at 12:00pm at the Chapel. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during the academic year, Mass is always at 5:00pm in the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel.”
      During the academic year, Mass is offered every weekday at the chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 12:00 PM and Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00 PM.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Sunday Mass at the campus ministry or a campus chapelTwo or more weekend Masses (Saturday vigil 5:30 PM. Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (Student Mass), all at the chapel.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass/Confession — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/massconfession · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Saturday Vigil: 5:30pm Sunday: 9:00am, 11:00am, 5:30pm (Student Mass) All weekend Masses are at the Chapel.”
      Weekend Masses are Saturday 5:30 PM vigil and Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (Student Mass), all at the chapel.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Scheduled confession at the campus ministryWeekly or more often (Saturday 4:30-5:15 PM. Sunday 10:00-10:45 AM and 4:00-5:15 PM. Tuesday and Thursday 4:00-4:45 PM during the academic year; also by appointment with the chaplain.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass/Confession — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/massconfession · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Saturday: 4:30pm - 5:15pm Sunday: 10:00am - 10:45am, 4:00pm - 5:15pm Tuesday/Thursday: 4:00pm - 4:45pm (during academic year) Mason and NVCC students can also make an appointment by contacting the Chaplain directly.”
      Confession is scheduled Saturday 4:30-5:15 PM, Sunday 10:00-10:45 AM and 4:00-5:15 PM, and Tuesday/Thursday 4:00-4:45 PM during the academic year, and by appointment with the chaplain.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student groups and missionary outreach (e.g., FOCUS, Saint Paul's Outreach, Knights of Columbus, Bible studies)Two or more (Registered student organizations on Mason360: Catholic Campus Ministry (the Catholic Patriots RSO) and Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS). FOCUS lists seven missionaries at GMU. The ministry also has a men's ministry (Brotherhood of the Sacred Heart), a women's ministry (Talitha Koum), and small-group Bible studies.)
    Sources (4)
    1. List of Groupsmason360.gmu.edu/club_signup · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The goal of Catholic Campus Ministry at George Mason University is to guide college students at GMU and NOVA into discipleship with Jesus Christ through the sacraments, friendship, formation, and works of service in the community, equipping them to build a lifelong mission.”
      Catholic Campus Ministry is a registered student organization at GMU serving students at GMU and Northern Virginia Community College.
      “FOCUS is a Catholic collegiate outreach whose mission is to share the hope and joy of the gospel with college and university students.”
      Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) is a registered student organization on GMU's Mason360 directory.
    2. George Mason University - FOCUSfocus.org/campus/george-mason-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Darko Nana Kofi Darko Beloff James Beloff Spigolon Alessandro Spigolon Cianca Castillo Dina Cianca Castillo Love Cayna Love Keane Mary Keane Wang John Wang”
      FOCUS lists seven missionaries serving at George Mason University.
    3. Our Ministries — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Men’s and Women’s Ministries lead events, host retreats, and foster community amongst our men and women here at the Chapel! Our Men’s Ministry is known as the Brotherhood of the Sacred Heart and our Women’s Ministry is known as Talitha Koum.”
      The ministry's men's ministry (Brotherhood of the Sacred Heart) and women's ministry (Talitha Koum) hold events and retreats.
    4. Frequently Asked Questions — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/campaignfaqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “We currently have 300 students in small group Bible studies, wide participation in medium-sized group ministries such as our Hispanic Ministry, and three to four weekly large group events like Thursday Night Supper.”
      About 300 students take part in small-group Bible studies; the ministry also has a Hispanic Ministry and three to four weekly large-group events.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Formation programs (retreats, OCIA/RCIA, service, small groups)Two or more kinds (OCIA classes on Wednesdays, men's and women's retreats, small-group Bible studies, and the weekly Thursday Night Supper with a speaker or formation activity.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Becoming Catholic — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/formation · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “We have classes every Wednesday at 5:30pm, beginning on September 2nd, but we are happy to find another time to meet with you if that doesn’t work for your schedule!”
      The ministry holds OCIA classes for those exploring or entering the Catholic faith every Wednesday at 5:30 PM.
    2. Our Ministries — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Men’s and Women’s Ministries lead events, host retreats, and foster community amongst our men and women here at the Chapel! Our Men’s Ministry is known as the Brotherhood of the Sacred Heart and our Women’s Ministry is known as Talitha Koum.”
      The ministry's men's ministry (Brotherhood of the Sacred Heart) and women's ministry (Talitha Koum) hold events and retreats.
      “Thursday Night Supper (TNS) is a weekly event every Thursday featuring dinner and a guest speaker or an activity that fosters formation, fun, and helps build up community in our Campus Ministry.”
      Thursday Night Supper is a weekly dinner with a guest speaker or formation activity.
    3. Frequently Asked Questions — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/campaignfaqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “We currently have 300 students in small group Bible studies, wide participation in medium-sized group ministries such as our Hispanic Ministry, and three to four weekly large group events like Thursday Night Supper.”
      About 300 students take part in small-group Bible studies; the ministry also has a Hispanic Ministry and three to four weekly large-group events.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic church within walking distance (computed from OpenStreetMap)Within 1 mile of campusComputed from OpenStreetMap church locations.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration12 to 19 times a week (14 weekly times documented: 9 Mass, 5 confession, 0 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).

Grades come from the documented indicators under the published rubric. “Not enough information” does not mean the school lacks it.

Strengths

  • Mass is offered at the ministry's own chapel every weekday during the academic year and four times each weekend.
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass/Confession — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/massconfession · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Saturday Vigil: 5:30pm Sunday: 9:00am, 11:00am, 5:30pm (Student Mass) All weekend Masses are at the Chapel.”
      Weekend Masses are Saturday 5:30 PM vigil and Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (Student Mass), all at the chapel.
      “On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during the academic year, Masses are at 12:00pm at the Chapel. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during the academic year, Mass is always at 5:00pm in the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel.”
      During the academic year, Mass is offered every weekday at the chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 12:00 PM and Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00 PM.
  • Confession is scheduled four days a week during the academic year (Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday), with appointments also available.
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass/Confession — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/massconfession · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Saturday: 4:30pm - 5:15pm Sunday: 10:00am - 10:45am, 4:00pm - 5:15pm Tuesday/Thursday: 4:00pm - 4:45pm (during academic year) Mason and NVCC students can also make an appointment by contacting the Chaplain directly.”
      Confession is scheduled Saturday 4:30-5:15 PM, Sunday 10:00-10:45 AM and 4:00-5:15 PM, and Tuesday/Thursday 4:00-4:45 PM during the academic year, and by appointment with the chaplain.
  • A priest chaplain and director, three lay campus ministers, and a seven-member FOCUS team serve the ministry.
    Sources (2)
    1. College Campus Ministry - Catholic Diocese of Arlingtonarlingtondiocese.org/college-campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “George Mason University Rev. Joseph Farrell, Chaplain and Director”
      The Diocese of Arlington lists a Catholic campus ministry at George Mason University with Rev. Joseph Farrell as chaplain and director.
      “Valeria DeCelle, Campus Minister Joe Frommelt, Campus Minister Sarah Johns, Campus Minister Kenny Kohlhaas, Music Director Carly McCrumb, Advancement Director”
      The GMU ministry staff includes three campus ministers (Valeria DeCelle, Joe Frommelt, Sarah Johns), music director Kenny Kohlhaas, and advancement director Carly McCrumb.
    2. George Mason University - FOCUSfocus.org/campus/george-mason-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Darko Nana Kofi Darko Beloff James Beloff Spigolon Alessandro Spigolon Cianca Castillo Dina Cianca Castillo Love Cayna Love Keane Mary Keane Wang John Wang”
      FOCUS lists seven missionaries serving at George Mason University.
  • Weekly community events include Thursday Night Supper and Sunday Night Gathering, and about 300 students take part in small-group Bible studies.
    Sources (2)
    1. Frequently Asked Questions — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/campaignfaqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “We currently have 300 students in small group Bible studies, wide participation in medium-sized group ministries such as our Hispanic Ministry, and three to four weekly large group events like Thursday Night Supper.”
      About 300 students take part in small-group Bible studies; the ministry also has a Hispanic Ministry and three to four weekly large-group events.
    2. Our Ministries — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Thursday Night Supper (TNS) is a weekly event every Thursday featuring dinner and a guest speaker or an activity that fosters formation, fun, and helps build up community in our Campus Ministry.”
      Thursday Night Supper is a weekly dinner with a guest speaker or formation activity.
      “Sunday Night Gathering (SNG) is a weekly fellowship event after the Sunday Night Student Mass that cultivates a family atmosphere through a spirit of hospitality. We always have the most delicious free food!”
      Sunday Night Gathering is a weekly fellowship event with free food after the Sunday evening Student Mass.

Concerns

  • The ministry states that its current building lacks a dedicated student lounge and small-group meeting rooms; an expansion may begin in early 2027.
    Sources (1)
    1. Frequently Asked Questions — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/campaignfaqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “However, our space lacks a dedicated student lounge space, small group meeting rooms, and welcoming offices. Our kitchen, hall, and bathrooms are dated and limit our ability to provide a comfortable, hospitable atmosphere for our students.”
      The center has a kitchen and hall but no dedicated student lounge or small-group meeting rooms.
      “Our rough expectation is that the work may start in early 2027, but we will have a more detailed timeline when a contractor is finalized and our site plan is finished.”
      Construction on an expanded ministry center may begin in early 2027.
  • Weekday Mass outside the academic year depends on the chaplain's schedule.
    Sources (1)
    1. Mass/Confession — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/massconfession · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “In the summer, Masses are held depending on the Chaplain’s schedule.”
      Weekday Masses outside the academic year depend on the chaplain's schedule.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

The Catholic center

St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel & Catholic Campus Ministry Center

  • Address: 4515 Roberts Road, Fairfax, VA 22032
  • Distance from campus: 0.4 mi (straight line from the campus point in federal IPEDS data)
  • Facilities: chapel, hall, kitchen, library

View on map ↗

Source: arlingtondiocese.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, gmuccm.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, gmuccm.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, gmuccm.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

13 groups and regular activities · 4 on campus, 9 off campus

Faith formation 2

  • OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation)Off campus
    Wednesdays 5:30 PM
    Weekly classes for students exploring or entering the Catholic faith; other meeting times can be arranged.
    gmuccm.org
  • Small-group Bible studiesOn campus
    The ministry reports about 300 students in small-group Bible studies.
    gmuccm.org

Clubs and groups 6

  • Brotherhood of the Sacred Heart (men's ministry)Off campus
    Men's ministry that leads events and hosts retreats.
    gmuccm.org
  • Talitha Koum (women's ministry)Off campus
    Women's ministry that leads events and hosts retreats.
    gmuccm.org
  • Hispanic MinistryOff campus
    Medium-sized group ministry listed by the campus ministry.
    gmuccm.org
  • Catholic Campus Ministry at Mason SquareOff campus
    Separate registered student organization serving GMU's Mason Square (Arlington) graduate and professional programs, under the direction of St. Charles Borromeo Parish.
    mason360.gmu.edu
  • Catholic Patriots (Catholic Campus Ministry RSO)On campus
    Registered student organization of GMU Catholic Campus Ministry, led by two student campus ministers who serve as its president and vice president.
    mason360.gmu.edu, gmuccm.org
  • FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students)On campus
    Registered student organization. FOCUS lists seven missionaries at GMU, and the diocese lists a FOCUS team director on the ministry staff.
    mason360.gmu.edu, focus.org, arlingtondiocese.org

Liturgy and prayer 1

  • Prayer & Liturgy ministryOff campus
    Student ministry that organizes spiritual events and liturgical ministries.
    gmuccm.org

Retreats 1

  • Men's and women's retreatsOff campus
    Retreats hosted by the men's and women's ministries.
    gmuccm.org

Social life 2

  • Thursday Night SupperOff campus
    Thursdays
    Weekly dinner with a guest speaker or formation activity at the ministry center.
    gmuccm.org
  • Sunday Night GatheringOff campus
    Sundays after the 5:30 PM Student Mass
    Weekly fellowship event with free food after the Sunday evening Student Mass.
    gmuccm.org, gmuccm.org

Sports and recreation 1

  • Campus Engagement ministryOn campus
    Student ministry that organizes on-campus events, outreach, and sports.
    gmuccm.org

Everything listed is published by the school, its campus ministry, or the parish. Ask the campus minister what’s happening this semester.

Catholic campus ministry

Sources (6)
  1. College Campus Ministry - Catholic Diocese of Arlingtonarlingtondiocese.org/college-campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “George Mason University Rev. Joseph Farrell, Chaplain and Director”
    The Diocese of Arlington lists a Catholic campus ministry at George Mason University with Rev. Joseph Farrell as chaplain and director.
    “George Mason University Rev. Joseph Farrell, Chaplain and Director”
    The Diocese of Arlington lists a Catholic campus ministry at George Mason University with Rev. Joseph Farrell as chaplain and director.
  2. Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “GMU Catholic Campus Ministry St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel 4515 Roberts Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032 gmuccm@gmail.com 703-425-0022”
    GMU Catholic Campus Ministry is located at the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel, 4515 Roberts Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032; email gmuccm@gmail.com, phone 703-425-0022.
    “GMU Catholic Campus Ministry St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel 4515 Roberts Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032 gmuccm@gmail.com 703-425-0022”
    GMU Catholic Campus Ministry is located at the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel, 4515 Roberts Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032; email gmuccm@gmail.com, phone 703-425-0022.
  3. Frequently Asked Questions — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/campaignfaqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “As an office of the Chancery of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, the Diocese provides accounting services and auditing to ensure all donations are handled with care and in accord with the wishes of our donors.”
    GMU Catholic Campus Ministry is an office of the Chancery of the Diocese of Arlington.
    “However, our space lacks a dedicated student lounge space, small group meeting rooms, and welcoming offices. Our kitchen, hall, and bathrooms are dated and limit our ability to provide a comfortable, hospitable atmosphere for our students.”
    The center has a kitchen and hall but no dedicated student lounge or small-group meeting rooms.
  4. List of Groupsmason360.gmu.edu/club_signup · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “The goal of Catholic Campus Ministry at George Mason University is to guide college students at GMU and NOVA into discipleship with Jesus Christ through the sacraments, friendship, formation, and works of service in the community, equipping them to build a lifelong mission.”
    Catholic Campus Ministry is a registered student organization at GMU serving students at GMU and Northern Virginia Community College.
    “FOCUS is a Catholic collegiate outreach whose mission is to share the hope and joy of the gospel with college and university students.”
    Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) is a registered student organization on GMU's Mason360 directory.
    “Catholic Campus Ministry at George Mason University at Mason Square (formerly GMU Arlington Campus), in collaboration with and under the direction of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in the Diocese of Arlington, provides formation and spiritual support to the students, faculty, researchers, staff, and other participants of the Mason Square graduate and professional programs.”
    A separate Catholic Campus Ministry RSO serves GMU's Mason Square (Arlington) graduate and professional programs under St. Charles Borromeo Parish.
  5. George Mason University - FOCUSfocus.org/campus/george-mason-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Darko Nana Kofi Darko Beloff James Beloff Spigolon Alessandro Spigolon Cianca Castillo Dina Cianca Castillo Love Cayna Love Keane Mary Keane Wang John Wang”
    FOCUS lists seven missionaries serving at George Mason University.
  6. Fall BBQ — Catholic Campus Ministrygmuccm.org/alumni · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “11AM - Daily Mass in the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel”
    The ministry's building includes the St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel; the same page mentions a chapel basement and a CCM Library.

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Academic Excellence

BAcademic Excellence: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.
75 of 100
From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

  • Graduation rate 35% of scoreThis measure counts for 35% of the Academic Excellence score.68%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.86%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,274 · ACT 27.5
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.16 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$15,232

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed.

Source: College Scorecard (College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026))

Cost and value

Federal data, shown separately. Cost, debt, and earnings are never part of any grade.

Undergraduate students
Fall enrollment (IPEDS)
27,666
Total students39,527
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$17,915
Cost of attendance (per year)$28,604
Median federal debt at graduation$19,500
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
68%
First-year retention86%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$76,343
Admission rate87%
Students receiving Pell grants30%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1274
SAT reading & writing580–680
SAT math580–680
ACT composite25–30
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 73 / 100 (how it’s computed)

Sources: College Scorecard · IPEDS College Navigator · Net price calculator
College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026); IPEDS 2024-25 directory and institutional characteristics; fall 2023 enrollment.

Local Church

Diocese of Arlington

The Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge, Bishop of Arlington

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Cathedral: Cathedral of St. Thomas More

Source: arlingtondiocese.org, verified Oct. 7, 2026.

Diocese determined from the county, using the diocese’s county list (Wikipedia). Confirm with the diocese.

About this school’s data

  • IPEDS unit ID 232186
  • Carnegie classification: Doctoral university (very high research)
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges d.b.a. Commission on Colleges and Universities (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
  • Report an error or a newer source
  • Respond as this school

Questions families ask

Is George Mason University a Catholic college?
No. George Mason University is not a Catholic college. Catholic School Compass rates the Catholic life on its campus instead. Catholic students are served by GMU Catholic Campus Ministry (Catholic Patriots).
What is George Mason University’s Catholic Life Score?
91 out of 100 (grade A). It measures Catholic life on campus: campus ministry, priests, Mass and confession, student groups, and nearby parishes, together with academics.
Where is Mass celebrated at George Mason University?
Mass is listed at St. Robert Bellarmine Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.
Is George Mason University Compass Recommended?
Yes. George Mason University meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic life on campus.

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