College of William & Mary

Bell Building, 109 Cary Street, Williamsburg, Virginia, USA

University Type

Public

Virginia,

United States

Year Established:

1693

The College of William & Mary (William & Mary, W&M, and officially The College of William and Mary in Virginia) is a public research university in Williamsburg, Virginia. Founded in 1693 by letters patent issued by King William III and Queen Mary II, it is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States and the ninth-oldest in the English-speaking world.

William & Mary educated American presidents Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and John Tyler. It also educated other key figures pivotal to the development of the United States, including the first President of the Continental Congress Peyton Randolph, the first U.S. Attorney General Edmund Randolph, the fourth U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Marshall, Speaker of the House of Representatives Henry Clay, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Winfield Scott, sixteen members of the Continental Congress, and four signers of the Declaration of Independence. This earned it the nickname "the Alma Mater of the Nation". George Washington received his surveyor's license from the college in 1749 and he would become the college's first American chancellor in 1788. The position was long held by Bishops of London and Archbishops of Canterbury, though in modern times has been held by U.S. Supreme Court Justices, Cabinet Secretaries, and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Benjamin Franklin received William & Mary's first honorary degree in 1756.

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Rankings

#1049

USNews

#1100

QS

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FAQs

What are the most popular graduate programs offered at College of William & Mary?

The College of William & Mary offers a variety of sought-after graduate programs, with particularly renowned majors in Law, Business Administration (MBA), Education, Public Policy, and Computer Science. These programs are known for their rigorous curriculum and strong emphasis on research and practical application, preparing students effectively for their professional careers.

What is the Annual Cost of attendance at College of William & Mary?

For the 2023 academic year, the total cost of attendance for an undergraduate international student at College of William & Mary is approximately $73,000 USD. This includes $54,000 for tuition and fees, and $19,000 for living expenses. Converting this to Indian Rupees, the total cost comes to approximately ₹60,06,000 INR (using an exchange rate of 1 USD = ₹82.3 INR).

What Financial aid and scholarship options are available at College of William & Mary?

The College of William & Mary offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Prospective students can apply for financial aid by submitting the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and CSS Profile. The university also provides specific scholarships for international students, which can be applied for through the admission process.

What is the reputation and ranking of College of William & Mary?

The College of William & Mary holds a prestigious reputation, particularly noted for its programs in Law and Business. It is ranked among the top public universities in the United States. The Law School frequently ranks in the top 40 nationwide, while the Mason School of Business is also highly regarded, often ranked among the top 50 business schools in the country by major educational publications.

What is the campus culture like at College of William & Mary?

Campus culture at the College of William & Mary is vibrant and inclusive, featuring a wide range of cultural fests, campus events, and over 400 clubs and organizations. Highlights include the annual Charter Day, celebrating the university’s founding, and Homecoming & Family Weekend. Students can engage in various interest groups, from arts and music societies to academic clubs and sports teams, fostering a dynamic and engaging community.

What are the housing options at College of William & Mary?

At the College of William & Mary, students have the option to live in on-campus dormitories, which provide a convenient and community-oriented living environment. For those preferring off-campus housing, popular areas include the neighborhoods of Kingsmill and New Town. These areas offer a range of rental options, from apartments to shared houses, and are favored for their proximity to campus and local amenities.

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College of William & Mary Fun Facts

  • Birthplace of Greek Life

    The College of William & Mary is where the Phi Beta Kappa Society, the first Greek-letter fraternity, was founded in 1776.

  • The Yule Log Ceremony

    Each December, students toss sprigs of holly into the Yule Log fire for good luck while serenaded by the president reading from Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol."

  • The Crim Dell Bridge

    Legend has it that if two lovers cross the Crim Dell bridge together and kiss at the crest, they will be together forever.

  • Famous Alumni: U.S. Presidents

    William & Mary has educated three U.S. Presidents: Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and John Tyler, earning it the nickname "Alma Mater of a Nation."