Colonial Williamsburg House

Who is eligible to live in student housing in Colonial Williamsburg?

A pair of students who will represent the University well and whose presence in the historic area will help further the relationship which William & Mary has with our neighbors in Colonial Williamsburg. Only two students may live in the residence; each applicant must be a rising junior or senior. Candidates should apply as prospective roommate pairs and submit all application materials to be considered for this unique opportunity. Both candidates must be enrolled for the following fall and eligible for housing at the time of decision. 

What are the costs associated with living in Colonial Williamsburg student housing?

The rental of the student residence in Colonial Williamsburg is managed through Residence Life. Thus, the rent and utility charges are the Colonial Williamsburg House room rate. The University also covers basic cable TV and Internet (through Cox Communications) costs. There are no unusual costs associated with living in the CW House.

What are the special benefits of living in Colonial Williamsburg?

In addition to having the unique experience of living in a restored residence, the selected students will be expected to plan several programs for students during the year, act as ambassadors for William & Mary, and gain valuable perspectives on living as a member of a historic community. A small programming budget is allotted each year, and residents may use the Residence Life Center for Community Development (CCD) to assist with these events and activities.  

What are my responsibilities as a student resident in Colonial Williamsburg?

When completing the application, students must demonstrate how they will help foster a partnership between Colonial Williamsburg and William & Mary. This collaboration should be based on the student's interests and skills and will be considered during the application process.

While the students are residing in the property, they will be expected to report on the progress and success of their identified goals through regular meetings with residence life staff and a short written report at the end of each semester. 

Students residing at the property will also undergo a short fireplace training in the Fall semester should they plan on using the fireplace in the house. 

Are there special rules which apply to residents in the Historic Area?

Yes, there are unusual obligations and responsibilities which accompany living in the Historic Area because the residences are more than rental properties. They are an integral and important part of restored Williamsburg, and each occupant is, in a sense, a curator of that particular portion of the Historic Area. For example, as a condition of accepting occupancy, each student is required to assume an obligation to minimize visual elements incongruous with eighteenth-century appearances and cooperate with Colonial Williamsburg in its continuing effort to maintain an authentic appearance and atmosphere. A detailed list of ground rules will be provided to the students selected to live in the Historic Area.

How do I apply?

A complete CW House application package must be submitted for each application pair (students may not apply individually). Once all applications are submitted, a committee will review them and select finalists. Finalists will be contacted to schedule an interview. 

Applications can be submitted electronically or delivered/mailed to the address below.