| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Type of Institution: Private liberal arts university with undergraduate and graduate programs.
Academic Structure:
The College: Offers a range of liberal arts and sciences programs.
Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics: Known for its strong focus on business, economics, politics, and commerce.
Washington and Lee University School of Law: Offers a highly regarded Juris Doctor (JD) program.
Popular Majors: Business, Political Science, Economics, History, English, and Law.
Honor System: A hallmark of W&L's culture, the university has a single-sanction honor system, which is student-run. It allows students significant freedom and responsibility in maintaining academic integrity.
Location: Situated in Lexington, Virginia, in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, W&L has a beautiful and historic campus.
National Historic Landmark: The central portion of the campus, known as The Colonnade, is a designated National Historic Landmark.
Lee Chapel: A historic chapel on campus where Robert E. Lee is buried. It serves as both a museum and a space for university events.
George Washington's Gift: In 1796, George Washington donated $20,000 worth of stock to the school, saving it from financial difficulties. This act led to the school being renamed in his honor.
Robert E. Lee's Presidency: Robert E. Lee served as the university's president from 1865 until his death in 1870. His leadership significantly shaped the institution, and it was renamed "Washington and Lee" in 1870.
Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 students, including both undergraduate and law students.
Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1, ensuring small class sizes and personalized attention.
Greek Life: A significant aspect of student life, with around 75% of undergraduates participating in fraternities and sororities.
Extracurriculars: Students can participate in numerous clubs, organizations, and activities, including student government, cultural clubs, and community service initiatives.
Athletics: W&L is part of NCAA Division III and the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC), offering a variety of sports.
Honor and Integrity: The university is renowned for its Honor System, which fosters a strong sense of trust and integrity.
Close Community: The small student body and focus on liberal arts create a tight-knit, collaborative campus environment.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: W&L has been working to address its historical ties to slavery and the Confederacy and aims to foster a more inclusive campus culture.
Washington and Lee is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States by publications such as U.S. News & World Report.
Its law school is highly regarded, especially for its focus on experiential learning through programs like the third-year practicum.
W&L has a strong network of distinguished alumni in fields like law, politics, business, journalism, and the arts. Some notable alumni include:
Tom Wolfe: Famous journalist and author.
Lewis F. Powell Jr.: Former U.S. Supreme Court Justice.
Cy Twombly: Renowned abstract artist.
John Warner: Former U.S. Senator and Secretary of the Navy.
Tuition: W&L is a private university, so tuition is relatively high, but the school is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need.
The W&L Promise: Offers free tuition (and sometimes room and board) for families with an income below a certain threshold (currently $125,000).
W&L provides a liberal arts education with a wide range of majors, minors, and interdisciplinary programs. Students can customize their academic experiences and take courses across disciplines.
Undergraduate Majors
The College (Liberal Arts and Sciences)
Art and Art History
Studio Art
Art History
Biology
Chemistry
Biochemistry
Classics
Greek
Latin
Classical Archaeology
Computer Science
Cognitive and Behavioral Science (Psychology)
East Asian Languages and Literature
Chinese
Japanese
English
Environmental Studies
Geology
History
Journalism and Mass Communications
Mathematics
Music
Philosophy
Physics and Engineering
Engineering is offered as part of a combined Physics and Engineering major.
Politics
American Politics
Global Politics
Political Theory
Psychology (Cognitive and Behavioral Science)
Religion
Romance Languages
Spanish
French
Russian Language and Area Studies
Sociology and Anthropology
Theater, Dance, and Film Studies
Theater
Film and Visual Culture
The Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics
Accounting
Business Administration
Economics
Public Accounting
Interdisciplinary Programs
W&L encourages interdisciplinary studies by offering minors and concentrations in areas that cross traditional boundaries, such as:
Africana Studies
Data Science
Education Policy
Entrepreneurship
Environmental Studies
Film and Visual Culture
Latin American and Caribbean Studies
Middle East and South Asia Studies
Poverty and Human Capability Studies
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Undergraduate Minors
W&L offers a variety of minors, including:
African-American Studies
Archaeology
Classics
Creative Writing
Data Science
Digital Culture and Information
Education
Museum Studies
Poverty and Human Capability Studies
Writing
Special Programs and Opportunities
Honors Thesis: Many departments offer honors programs for students who want to complete advanced, independent research.
Spring Term: A distinctive part of W&L’s academic calendar, the Spring Term is a four-week session that allows students to take intensive courses in unique topics, often involving experiential learning or study abroad.
International Education: W&L provides study-abroad programs and exchange opportunities in more than 40 countries.
Shepherd Poverty Program: Focuses on poverty studies and community service, helping students explore issues related to economic inequality.
W&L offers graduate programs exclusively through its School of Law.
School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD): A highly regarded three-year program for students pursuing a career in law. The program includes both traditional academic courses and hands-on legal training through clinics and externships.
Dual-Degree Programs: W&L Law offers joint degrees in partnership with other graduate schools. For example:
JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration) in collaboration with other universities.
Specialized Areas of Study: Students can specialize in areas such as:
Corporate Law
International Law
Environmental Law
Taxation Law
The law school also emphasizes experiential learning in the third year, allowing students to participate in simulated or actual legal practice environments.
W&L offers pre-professional advising for students interested in pursuing graduate studies or careers in specific fields:
Pre-Law: Advising and preparation for students planning to attend law school.
Pre-Medicine and Health Professions: Advising for students interested in medical, dental, veterinary, or other health-related graduate programs.
Pre-Engineering: W&L offers a dual-degree (3-2) engineering program in partnership with other universities, allowing students to earn a liberal arts degree from W&L and an engineering degree from a partner institution.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Art and Art History |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Classics |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Cognitive and Behavioral Science (Psychology) |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Data Science (Minor) |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
East Asian Languages and Literature |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
English |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Environmental Studies |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Film and Visual Culture (Minor) |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
French (Romance Languages) |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Geology |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
German |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
History |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Journalism and Mass Communications |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Physics and Engineering |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Politics (American, Global, or Political Theory) |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Religion |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Russian Language and Area Studies |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Sociology and Anthropology |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Spanish (Romance Languages) |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Theater, Dance, and Film Studies |
4 years |
$65,800 |
|
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (Minor) |
4 years |
$65,800 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Juris Doctor (JD) |
3 years |
$59,870 |
|
JD/MPA (Master of Public Administration) (Dual Degree) |
(3-4 years total) |
Depends on the collaborating institution |
|
JD/LLM in International Law (Dual Degree) |
(3-4 years total) |
Depends on the collaborating institution |
Location: Lexington, Virginia, USA, a small and historic town in the Shenandoah Valley.
International Student Population: Approximately 6-8% of the total student body comprises international students, representing countries from around the world.
Degrees Offered: W&L primarily offers undergraduate programs in liberal arts, business, and sciences, as well as graduate law programs (Juris Doctor - JD).
Class Size and Support: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, international students receive personalized attention and academic guidance.
Undergraduate Admission:
International students applying to W&L must meet the following criteria:
Application Portal: Apply through the Common Application or the Coalition Application.
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 125.
(This requirement is waived if English is the primary language of instruction for the student’s high school education.)
Academic Records: Submit official high school transcripts (with English translations, if applicable).
Standardized Tests (Optional):
W&L has a test-optional policy, but students can submit SAT or ACT scores if they feel it strengthens their application.
Average SAT: 1450-1500; Average ACT: 33-34 (for those who submit scores).
Letters of Recommendation: Typically from teachers or counselors.
Essay/Personal Statement: Required as part of the application.
Graduate (Law) Admission:
For students applying to the Juris Doctor (JD) program in the School of Law:
LSAT Scores: Required. Competitive LSAT scores are around 162-167.
English Proficiency: Same requirements as above (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo).
Undergraduate Degree: A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) is required, typically from a recognized institution outside the U.S. or in the U.S.
Application Deadlines:
Early Decision I: November 1
Early Decision II: January 1
Regular Decision: January 1
W&L offers three application options for undergraduate students:
Early Decision I (Binding): Deadline: November 1
Early Decision II (Binding): Deadline: January 1
Regular Decision (Non-Binding): Deadline: January 1
Steps |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Step 1: Choose Application Platform |
W&L accepts the Common Application or Coalition Application. |
|
Step 2: Submit the Application Form |
Complete the application form and pay the non-refundable application fee of $60 (fee waivers available). |
|
Step 3: Write an Essay |
Submit a personal essay (part of the Common/Coalition Application) to showcase your personality, goals, and values. |
|
Step 4: Provide Academic Records |
Submit your official high school transcripts, which must include your grades for all completed coursework. |
|
Step 5: Test Scores (Optional) |
W&L has a test-optional policy for SAT/ACT scores. If you choose to submit: |
|
|
- SAT Code: 5887 |
|
|
- ACT Code: 4430 |
|
|
Average scores: SAT (1450-1500), ACT (33-34). |
|
Step 6: Recommendation Letters |
Submit two letters of recommendation: one from a teacher and one from a counselor or school official. |
|
Step 7: English Proficiency (For International Students) |
Submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores if English is not your first language. Requirements: |
|
|
- TOEFL iBT: 100+ |
|
|
- IELTS: 7.0+ |
|
|
- Duolingo English Test (DET): 125+ |
|
Step 8: Financial Aid Application |
If applying for financial aid, submit the CSS Profile and additional financial documents (if needed). |
In addition to the above steps, international students must:
Submit translated academic records if the originals are not in English.
Provide a passport copy for visa purposes.
Show evidence of financial support (bank statements or sponsor letters) if not applying for financial aid.
Application Type |
Deadline |
Decision Notification Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 1 |
December 15 |
|
Early Decision II |
January 1 |
February 15 |
|
Regular Decision |
January 1 |
April 1 |
|
Financial Aid Deadline |
November 15 (ED I) / January 15 (RD/ED II) |
Alongside admission decision |
W&L uses a holistic admissions process, reviewing academic achievements, extracurricular activities, essays, recommendations, and more. Decisions are categorized as:
Accepted
Deferred (for Early Decision applicants)
Waitlisted
Rejected
W&L offers graduate studies exclusively through its School of Law, which awards the Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
Steps |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Step 1: Application Portal |
Apply through the LSAC (Law School Admission Council) website. |
|
Step 2: Complete Application |
Fill out the W&L Law application on LSAC and pay the $60 application fee (fee waivers available). |
|
Step 3: LSAT Scores |
Submit your LSAT score (required). Competitive scores are in the 162-167 range. |
|
Step 4: Academic Records |
Provide official undergraduate transcripts. A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) is required. |
|
Step 5: Letters of Recommendation |
Submit two letters of recommendation, typically from professors or professionals familiar with your academic or professional abilities. |
|
Step 6: Personal Statement |
Write a personal statement highlighting your interest in law, goals, and reasons for choosing W&L Law. |
|
Step 7: Resume |
Provide a detailed resume that outlines your academic, professional, and extracurricular accomplishments. |
|
Step 8: English Proficiency (For International Applicants) |
Submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores if applicable. Minimum TOEFL score: 100. |
Application Type |
Deadline |
Decision Notification Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision |
November 15 |
By December |
|
Regular Decision |
March 1 |
Rolling basis after submission |
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degree)
W&L follows a single annual intake for undergraduate programs:
Fall Intake: Classes begin in August each year.
Students must apply through one of three options:
Early Decision I: Deadline: November 1 (binding).
Early Decision II: Deadline: January 1 (binding).
Regular Decision: Deadline: January 1 (non-binding).
Graduate Program (Law School – Juris Doctor)
W&L's School of Law also has one annual intake:
Fall Intake: Classes begin in August each year.
Applications are typically accepted from September to March for the following academic year.
Early Decision applicants to the law school should apply by November 15.
W&L's undergraduate admissions process is holistic, and applicants are evaluated based on academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and personal character.
General Eligibility Criteria:
High School Diploma:
Applicants must have completed high school (secondary school) or equivalent.
A strong academic performance in challenging courses (such as AP, IB, or Honors classes) is highly recommended.
GPA:
There is no formal GPA cutoff, but successful applicants typically have an unweighted GPA of 3.8–4.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or higher.
Standardized Tests (Optional):
W&L is test-optional, meaning applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, if submitted:
SAT: Competitive scores range from 1450–1500.
ACT: Competitive scores range from 33–34.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
Required if the applicant’s first language is not English or if their education was not conducted in English.
Accepted tests and minimum scores:
TOEFL iBT: 100+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo English Test (DET): 125+
Extracurricular Activities:
Evidence of leadership, community involvement, or participation in clubs, sports, or artistic pursuits is highly valued.
Letters of Recommendation:
Two letters of recommendation are required (one from a teacher, and one from a school counselor or principal).
Personal Essay:
A thoughtful essay is required as part of the Common Application or Coalition Application.
Additional Requirements for International Students:
Translated Academic Records: If transcripts are not in English, they must be translated and certified.
Proof of Financial Support: International students not seeking financial aid must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and other fees.
Eligibility for the Juris Doctor (JD) program at W&L's School of Law is based on academic preparation, aptitude for law, and leadership potential.
General Eligibility Criteria:
Undergraduate Degree:
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
A strong academic record with a GPA of 3.3 or higher is competitive.
LSAT Scores:
All JD applicants are required to submit Law School Admission Test (LSAT) scores.
Competitive applicants typically have LSAT scores in the range of 162–167.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English if their primary education was not in English. Minimum scores:
TOEFL iBT: 100+
IELTS: 7.0+
Letters of Recommendation:
Two letters of recommendation are required, preferably from professors, mentors, or employers familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional qualifications.
Personal Statement and Resume:
A personal statement highlighting the applicant’s motivations, goals, and interest in studying law at W&L.
A resume detailing academic achievements, work experience, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles.
Eligibility for Dual-Degree (JD/LLM or JD/MPA):
Applicants must meet the JD eligibility requirements and fulfill any additional requirements set by the partner institution offering the dual degree.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Benefits |
Applicable for |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
The Johnson Scholarship |
- Exceptional academic, leadership, and personal achievements. |
- Covers full tuition, room, and board. |
Undergraduate (All majors) |
Automatically considered during admission process. |
|
W&L Merit Scholarships |
- Outstanding academic performance and leadership skills. |
- Partial to full tuition coverage. |
Undergraduate |
Automatically considered during admission process. |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
- Demonstrated financial need through the CSS Profile (domestic and international students). |
- Up to 100% of demonstrated need met, including tuition, room, board, and other expenses. |
Undergraduate & Law School |
Submit CSS Profile (and FAFSA for U.S. students). |
|
Honors Scholarships (Law) |
- Exceptional academic performance, leadership, and commitment to the legal profession. |
- Significant partial tuition coverage or full tuition. |
Law School (JD) |
Automatically considered during law school admission. |
|
Shepherd Poverty Program |
- Students interested in studying poverty and human capabilities. |
- Scholarship amount varies. |
Undergraduate & Law School |
Automatically considered for funding once enrolled. |
|
Robert E. Lee Scholarships |
- Strong academic record and leadership potential. |
- Partial tuition coverage. |
Undergraduate |
Automatically considered during admission process. |
|
Global Learning Scholarships |
- International students who demonstrate academic excellence and interest in global education. |
- Partial to full tuition. |
International Undergraduate Students |
Submit CSS Profile and demonstrate interest in global issues. |
|
Outside/External Scholarships |
- Various external organizations and foundations offering scholarships to W&L students. |
- Amount varies based on external funding. |
Undergraduate & Law School |
Apply directly to external organizations. |
Facility Type |
Details |
Accommodation Options |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Campus Type |
- Located in Lexington, Virginia. |
N/A |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing (Required for First-Year Students) |
- First-year students are required to live on campus. |
- Co-ed residence halls |
$9,000–$9,800 (Room) |
|
Second-Year Village Housing |
- Designed for sophomores. |
- 4-6 person apartments |
$10,000–$11,200 (Room) |
|
Upperclass Housing |
- Juniors and seniors can choose between apartments or theme housing. |
- Apartments |
$10,200–$11,500 (Room) |
|
Theme and Greek Housing |
- For students affiliated with Greek life or special interest groups. |
- Greek houses |
$10,500–$12,000 (Room) |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
- Limited availability. |
- Apartments |
Varies: ~$5,000–$8,000/year |
|
Dining Facilities |
- Multiple dining options including The Marketplace, E. Café, and the Tea House. |
Meal plans available (various tiers): |
$7,000–$7,500 (Meal Plan) |
|
Shared Amenities |
- Free Wi-Fi |
Included in accommodation fees |
Included in costs |
|
Health and Wellness |
- Student Health Center for medical needs. |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Campus Security |
- 24/7 campus security and residence hall access control. |
N/A |
N/A |
1. Academic Environment
W&L is known for its 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring small class sizes and close interactions with professors.
The Honor System creates an environment of trust, allowing students to take unproctored exams and enjoy academic freedom with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
Students are encouraged to engage in undergraduate research, collaborate with faculty, and participate in experiential learning opportunities such as internships, community service, and study abroad programs.
2. Residential Life
First-year students are required to live on campus, which fosters a strong sense of community. Sophomores and many upperclassmen also live on campus in apartment-style housing or theme housing.
W&L guarantees housing for all four years, with options ranging from traditional residence halls to Greek life housing and special-interest theme houses (e.g., sustainability, language houses).
The campus is safe, with 24/7 security and controlled access to residence halls.
3. Extracurricular Activities
W&L has over 130 student organizations, offering opportunities for students to pursue their interests and hobbies, from academics to arts and athletics.
Clubs and organizations include:
Academic societies like the Student Association for International Learning (SAIL).
Cultural organizations like the International Student Organization (ISO) and African Society.
Media and creative outlets like the Ring-tum Phi newspaper, the Calyx yearbook, and the WLUR radio station.
Service and leadership groups like the Campus Kitchen Project and the Shepherd Poverty Program, which integrates service and academics to address issues of inequality.
4. Greek Life
Greek life is a major part of the W&L student experience, with 75% of undergraduates participating in fraternities or sororities.
Greek organizations are closely tied to campus life, hosting events, philanthropic initiatives, and social gatherings.
W&L offers a delayed rush system, allowing students to explore Greek life during their first year before making a commitment.
5. Athletics and Recreation
W&L is part of the NCAA Division III and competes in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC), offering 24 varsity sports teams.
Popular sports include soccer, lacrosse, swimming, basketball, tennis, and golf.
For non-varsity athletes, there are plenty of intramural sports and club sports, such as ultimate frisbee, rugby, and equestrian.
The Fitness Center and Recreation Facilities on campus provide opportunities for exercise, group fitness classes, and outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking in the nearby Shenandoah Valley.
6. Cultural and Arts Scene
W&L has a vibrant cultural scene, with frequent performances, concerts, and exhibitions held at venues like the Lenfest Center for the Arts.
Students can participate in theater productions, dance, music ensembles, and visual arts programs.
The university also hosts guest speakers, writers-in-residence, and visiting artists, enriching the cultural experience on campus.
7. Traditions and Events
W&L has many unique traditions that foster a sense of belonging:
Honor System: Central to the W&L experience, it builds trust and shapes student life.
Mock Convention: A famous W&L tradition that simulates a U.S. political convention to predict the presidential nominee for the party out of power.
Fancy Dress Ball: An annual formal event that dates back to the early 20th century, often compared to a "campus prom."
Parent's Weekend and Alumni Reunions: Celebrate the W&L community and bring together students, families, and alumni.
Spring Term: A unique four-week term in which students focus on just one intensive course, often involving travel, community engagement, or creative projects.
8. Student Support Services
International Student Services: Provides support for international students, including help with visas, cultural adjustment, and orientation programs.
Career Development Office: Helps students with internships, job placements, resume building, and preparing for graduate school.
Counseling and Health Services: Offers mental health support, wellness resources, and medical care at the Student Health Center.
Academic Advising: Advisors and faculty mentors help students navigate academic planning, research opportunities, and post-graduation plans.
9. Dining and Social Life
W&L offers multiple dining options, including the Marketplace, E. Café, and the Tea House, with meal plans accommodating various dietary preferences (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free).
Social life on campus is active, with frequent student-led events, concerts, club meetings, and off-campus activities in Lexington, a small but lively town with restaurants, shops, and outdoor activities.
10. Outdoor Opportunities
Located in the Shenandoah Valley, W&L students have access to some of the most beautiful outdoor areas in Virginia.
Students enjoy hiking, biking, rock climbing, and kayaking at nearby locations like the Blue Ridge Mountains and Maury River.
The Outing Club is one of the most popular organizations on campus, providing students with outdoor equipment rentals and organizing group adventures.
11. Diversity and Inclusion
W&L is working to foster a more inclusive campus culture. Through initiatives like the Office of Inclusion and Engagement, the university supports underrepresented groups and promotes dialogue on diversity-related issues.
Cultural events and programs celebrate the diverse backgrounds of students, including International Education Week and themed cultural dinners.
12. Work and Career Opportunities
Many students take advantage of on-campus jobs, which are available to both domestic and international students (20 hours per week for international students on F-1 visas).
W&L’s Career Development Office connects students with internships, study abroad programs, and career opportunities, with a strong alumni network available for mentorship and job referrals.
13. Local Community in Lexington, VA
Lexington is a small and historic town that provides a peaceful and safe environment for students.
While the campus is the hub of student life, the local area offers shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
Larger cities like Washington, D.C., Richmond, and Charlottesville are accessible for weekend trips.
1. Career Support and Services
W&L’s Career and Professional Development Office plays a critical role in preparing students for the job market by offering:
Career Counseling: Personalized career advising to help students define their goals and prepare for their careers.
Workshops and Events: Resume writing, interview preparation, networking workshops, and job fairs.
Internship Assistance: Help with securing internships through alumni connections and partnerships with organizations.
Job Search Support: Access to job boards, career resources, and employer networks.
Graduate School Advising: Guidance for students planning to attend law school, medical school, or other graduate programs.
2. Placement Success Rates
Employment Rate: W&L consistently reports a 95-98% placement rate for students who are employed or enrolled in graduate programs within 6 months of graduation.
Graduate School Enrollment: About 25-30% of graduates pursue advanced degrees immediately after graduating.
The high placement rate reflects W&L’s strong focus on leadership development, academic excellence, and experiential learning.
3. Top Industries for Placements
W&L graduates are highly sought after in a wide range of industries, with some of the most common sectors being:
Finance and Consulting: A significant number of graduates secure positions at top firms like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Deloitte, and McKinsey & Company.
Law: Graduates of W&L’s School of Law and undergraduate programs often go on to work at top-tier law firms or clerk for judges.
Media and Communications: Students find roles in journalism, public relations, and digital marketing at companies like The New York Times and NBC.
Technology: Alumni secure positions at tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft.
Public Policy and Nonprofits: Graduates work in government, think tanks, and nonprofit organizations, such as the World Bank, United Nations, and Teach for America.
Healthcare and Medicine: Many students enter medical school or find jobs in healthcare administration, research, and related fields.
Education: Some graduates pursue teaching or work with programs like Fulbright Fellowships and Teach for America.
4. Internship Opportunities
Internship Focus: Nearly all students complete at least one internship during their time at W&L, which often leads to full-time job offers after graduation.
Shepherd Program: Students in the Shepherd Poverty Program participate in internships focused on community service, public policy, and social justice.
Business Internships: Students pursuing business majors often secure summer internships at top investment banks, consulting firms, and corporations.
Media and Arts: Students interested in journalism, media, or the arts often intern with media companies, galleries, and museums.
Law Internships: Law students gain hands-on experience through externships, legal clinics, and summer associate programs at law firms.
5. Alumni Network
W&L has a strong and active alumni network, with alumni working in prestigious organizations and industries around the world.
Alumni frequently mentor current students, provide job referrals, and offer internship opportunities.
The Generals' Career Network connects students with alumni who are leaders in their fields.
6. Employers Hiring W&L Graduates
Graduates of W&L have been placed at top-tier companies and organizations, including:
Finance and Consulting Firms:
Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Morgan Stanley, Deloitte, McKinsey & Company, KPMG, PwC, Bain & Company.
Law Firms and Legal Institutions:
Kirkland & Ellis, Latham & Watkins, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, U.S. Federal Courts (judicial clerkships).
Media and Communications:
NBC, The Washington Post, The New York Times, CNN, Condé Nast.
Technology Companies:
Google, Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, Accenture.
Nonprofits and Public Policy Organizations:
World Bank, United Nations, AmeriCorps, Teach for America.
7. Graduate School Placements
W&L graduates are well-prepared for advanced study, and many are admitted to top graduate schools in the U.S. and abroad, such as:
Law Schools: Harvard, Yale, Stanford, University of Virginia, Georgetown, Duke, and W&L’s own School of Law.
Medical Schools: Johns Hopkins, Harvard, University of Virginia, Vanderbilt, and Duke.
Business Schools: Wharton (UPenn), Harvard Business School, Kellogg (Northwestern), and Darden (UVA).
Other Graduate Programs: Oxford, Cambridge, Princeton, Columbia, and University of Chicago.
8. Salaries and Compensation
W&L graduates are highly competitive in the job market, with strong starting salaries in various industries:
Average Starting Salary (Undergraduates): Around $65,000–$75,000 per year.
Average Starting Salary (Law Graduates): Around $85,000–$190,000 per year, depending on the sector (e.g., public interest vs. corporate law).
High Earners: Graduates entering consulting, investment banking, and law often earn six-figure salaries within a few years of employment.
9. Unique Placement Features
Honor System: The W&L Honor System instills a sense of responsibility, integrity, and professionalism, making graduates stand out to employers.
Leadership Development: W&L emphasizes leadership training through programs like the Williams School of Commerce and the Shepherd Poverty Program.
Experiential Learning: Programs like study abroad, research projects, and Spring Term courses allow students to develop practical skills relevant to their careers.
10. Career Development Events
W&L hosts a variety of events and programs to connect students with employers:
Career Fairs: On-campus career fairs with recruiters from leading companies and organizations.
Networking Events: Alumni-student networking programs and industry panels.
Workshops: Resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategy sessions.
Industry Treks: Organized trips to cities like New York and Washington, D.C., for networking with industry professionals.
11. Post-Graduation Success
W&L prides itself on the success of its graduates:
Within 6 months of graduation, over 95% of students are employed, pursuing graduate studies, or engaged in service programs.
Students pursuing graduate school or fellowships (e.g., Fulbright) often secure placements at top universities and programs globally.
Highly Selective:
With an acceptance rate of 19-25%, W&L is among the most selective liberal arts colleges in the United States.
The university receives applications from high-achieving students globally, contributing to its competitive admissions process.
Early Decision Acceptance Rate:
Early Decision applicants often have a higher acceptance rate compared to Regular Decision applicants because these students demonstrate strong commitment to attending W&L if admitted.
Early Decision acceptance rates can range between 30-40%, depending on the year.
Regular Decision Acceptance Rate:
Regular Decision is more competitive, with an acceptance rate closer to 18-20%.
International Students:
W&L is need-aware for international applicants, meaning financial need may be considered during the admissions process. However, the university still accepts many qualified international students and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for those admitted.
Law School Acceptance Rate:
For W&L’s School of Law, the acceptance rate typically ranges from 30-40%, depending on the year and applicant pool.
Total Applications Received: Approximately 6,000-7,000 annually.
Students Admitted: Roughly 1,200-1,500 students are admitted.
Enrolled Students: Around 460-470 students enroll in the first-year class.
Academic Profile of Admitted Students:
Average GPA: 3.9–4.0 (unweighted, on a 4.0 scale).
SAT Scores: Middle 50% range is 1450–1500.
ACT Scores: Middle 50% range is 33–34.
Class Rank: The majority of admitted students are in the top 10% of their high school class.
Holistic Review:
Admissions at W&L are based on a holistic evaluation, considering academic performance, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, essays, and recommendation letters.
Demonstrating a strong fit with W&L’s community and values (e.g., the Honor System) is also important.
The Johnson Scholarship:
Applicants who are considered for the Johnson Scholarship (a merit-based full-tuition scholarship) face additional competition, as this program seeks the top 10% of admitted students.
Address:
Washington and Lee University
204 W. Washington Street
Lexington, Virginia 24450
USA
Geographic Highlights:
Region: The university is located in the southeastern United States, in Rockbridge County, Virginia.
Natural Beauty: The campus is situated near the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Maury River, offering picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Size of Lexington: Lexington is a small college town with a population of approximately 7,000 residents, making it a safe, friendly, and peaceful environment for students.
Proximity to Major Cities:
Roanoke, Virginia: ~50 miles (~1-hour drive) south of campus.
Charlottesville, Virginia: ~70 miles (~1.5-hour drive) northeast of campus.
Richmond, Virginia: ~140 miles (~2.5-hour drive) east of campus.
Washington, D.C.: ~190 miles (~3.5-hour drive) northeast of campus.
Atlanta, Georgia: ~430 miles (~7-hour drive) south.
Transportation:
The campus is primarily pedestrian-friendly, with most students living on or near campus.
Students traveling to W&L can use nearby airports:
Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA): ~50 miles away.
Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO): ~1.5 hours away.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): ~3 hours away.
Shuttle services or ride-sharing options like Uber or Lyft are available for transportation to and from nearby cities or airports.
