William & Mary, founded in 1693 and located in Williamsburg, Virginia, is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. Chartered during the reign of King William III and Queen Mary II of England, the university combines a rich colonial heritage with a forward-looking academic vision. It is widely recognized as one of the “Public Ivies.”

Academically, William & Mary offers a liberal arts–centered education supported by the strengths of a public research institution. With a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 12:1, small classes encourage close interaction and meaningful discussion. Programs in Government, International Relations, History, Economics, Psychology, and Business are particularly well regarded.

The university places strong emphasis on undergraduate research and faculty mentorship. Students frequently collaborate with professors on research projects from their early years. Its proximity to Washington, D.C. provides valuable internship and career opportunities in government, policy, and international affairs.

Located adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg, the campus offers a distinctive blend of history and scholarship. The student community is intellectually engaged, collaborative, and guided by a long-standing honor code tradition.

Today, William & Mary continues to balance tradition with innovation, preparing students to become thoughtful leaders and globally engaged citizens through critical inquiry and ethical responsibility.

What are William and Mary looking for?

While there’s no single formula for getting in to William & Mary, we’ve tried to make the application process as straightforward as possible. Links for detailed information about application requirements and processes are found below. We also encourage you to meet the Admission Committee and learn more about the deans who will be reviewing your application in the coming months.

Admissions Statistics

ADMISSION INFORMATION

APPLICATION DATES & DEADLINES

Additional essay questions of the application.

William & Mary is a community that fosters deep human connection. We reflect on the lessons of history to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. We engage diverse perspectives and seek wisdom in bridging differences. Together, we are unceasing in our efforts to make a meaningful difference in our communities, the state, the nation, and the world.

To help us learn more about you, we invite you to share additional information by answering up to two of these optional short-answer prompts. Think of this optional opportunity as show and tell by proxy.

1. Are there any particular communities that are important to you, and how do you see yourself being a part of our community? (300 words)

2. Share more about a personal academic interest or career goal. (300 words)

3. How has your family, culture and/or background shaped your lived experience? (300 words)

4. What led to your interest in William & Mary? (300 words)