Resource Guide
We're here to help
There are a variety of ways to support your student during their time at William & Mary. Here you will find some of the systems, services and tools that you will use to stay up-to-date and connected with the university, along with explanations about these key items.
The digital PDF will be updated once per year and posted for those who wish to print out our Resource Guide. For the most up-to-date information contained in this guide, re-visit this website.
Nuts & BoltsAuxiliary Services (Bookstore, Conference Services, Dining, Parking & Transport, Tribe Card) - The Office of Auxiliary Services provides a variety of products and services that support and enhance campus life for students, faculty and staff, alumni, and guests of William & Mary. We are committed to fostering an environment that promotes the diversity of creativity, excellence, thought, culture and educational opportunities throughout the auxiliary enterprise at William & Mary. Campus Bookstore – Located at 601 Prince George Street in Colonial Williamsburg, the William & Mary Spirit Shop and Bookstore, operated by Barnes & Noble College Booksellers, is the university's retail location for textbooks, general books and William & Mary memorabilia. Campus Dietitian – (Allergy Concerns, Dietary Restrictions, Healthy Eating) - Some students' special dietary requirements go beyond balancing the guilty pleasures with healthy choices, but instead are medically necessary to remain healthy and safe. Whether a student is following a special diet for medical reasons or they just want to stay healthy in college, the dining halls have a variety of choices to help keep a student healthy, safe and satisfied. W&M’s Campus Dietitian and Executive Chefs can help you plan your meals to meet your special dietary needs. Please feel free to email Campus Dietitian Julia Green. Community Values and Restorative Practices (Student Handbook, Code of Conduct, Honor Code, Healthy Together Community Commitment) - Community values at W&M include personal integrity, academic integrity, concern for the rights of others, and personal responsibility. These values are reflected in the Honor Code, the Student Code of Conduct, and other university policies. Staff members are available to provide information to students, faculty, and staff about the university community's standards and relevant procedures, and to discuss and receive reports related to students or student groups. Dining Services (Meal plans, Dining Dollars, Special Diets, Campus Dietician) - Meal plans come in many different shapes and sizes, conveniently tailored for the varying needs of individual students living both on and off campus. Enjoy easy access to all-you-care-to-eat facilities, specialty coffee houses and cafés, convenience stores, food trucks, and national franchises. FERPA – Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act - The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is a federal law that affords students certain rights with respect to their education records and defines situations in which the university may release information from student records with student consent. These rights transfer from the parents to the student when the student either turns eighteen years old or enters a postsecondary educational institution, regardless of age. Financial Aid (FAFSA, Federal Work Study, Student Employment Opportunities) – As a public university, we work hard to keep the cost of our exceptional education affordable, and we commit our resources to need-based aid. We typically meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for in-state students, and qualifying out-of-state students may receive up to 25% of their full cost of attendance in grant aid. Financial Operations (Bursar’s Office) (Student Accounts , Collection of Tuition, Fees, Meal Plans, Housing, and Other University Charges) - The Financial Operations department at William & Mary and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science is responsible for providing comprehensive accounting, bursar and payroll services in support of the university's primary mission of education, research and public service. Office of the Registrar (Transcripts, Degree Audits, Transfer Credits, Residency, Co-enrollment Programs, Veteran Benefits) - The Office of the University Registrar supports the primary educational mission of William & Mary. We offer assistance and service to students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents and all other members of the William & Mary community. Whether you need to submit transfer credits, get help registering for classes, or get a transcript to send off for that great new job, we have you covered. Parent Proxy – Proxy Access provides students with the ability to grant permission to their parents or guardians to view certain pages of information currently available in their student's Banner account. The student manages the creation of a proxy and the pages they can view. If a William & Mary student has granted you proxy access to their student information, you will receive an email with a web link and temporary PIN. Parking & Transportation (Parking Decals, Visitor Lots, Special Event Parking, Bike Alliance, Airport Travel, Zipcar, WATA) - Parking and Transportation services at William & Mary are dedicated to providing William & Mary students, faculty and staff with a safe and organized campus, and the ability to get you where you need to go. Sometimes this means we have to lay down the law, but we also do a lot to make the W&M area an easy place to explore. Passphrase – Passphrase is a new verification system designed to verify the identity of individuals requesting information from student education records. No information from student education records may be disclosed without consent of the student or an applicable exemption under the student records privacy policy. Established Release Types include: Academic Release, Financial Release, Conduct/Honor Release. Postal Services (CSU Boxes, Shipping and Receiving Mail) - The campus post office operates as a branch of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). We provide timely, reliable, and accurate processing and distribution of William & Mary's internal and external mail. Your CSU/mailbox number is for a virtual mailbox that you will keep until you withdraw or graduate. You will receive an email notification for every piece of mail that you receive. Student Health Insurance – The W&M Student Insurance Plan is in compliance with the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements and the 2021-2022 policy is a high level Gold plan with actuarial value of 84.91%. The Student Injury and Sickness Insurance Plan designed especially for the students of William & Mary is intended to provide health care coverage at a reasonable price for professional services obtained both from and outside the Student Health Center. |
AcademicsAcademic Enrichment (TutorZone, Time Management Skills, Academic Support) - Academic Enrichment guides students to the completion of their academic goals by creating an accessible, responsive, constructive, learner-centered space for students to become active, independent, and confident learners. We help students develop academic skills and strategies, strengthen personal responsibility, and promote an understanding of both university culture and effective decision making. Arts & Sciences (Undergraduate Studies, Graduate Studies) We offer 11 select graduate programs and dozens of undergraduate majors and minors, connecting the breadth and depth of knowledge across the arts and sciences. The Charles Center (Scholars Program, Interdisciplinary Study, Student Research, Honors Theses, Study Away, and Academic Internships) - In collaboration with William & Mary faculty, we advance student research and interdisciplinary study. Our initiatives, from scholars programs to academic internships, inspire faculty-student collaborations in classrooms and across the world. We invest in experiences that prepare students for a life of scholarly thought, curiosity, and success. Global Education (Study Abroad, Exchange Programs) – William & Mary is the #1 public university for study abroad. Nearly 60% of all undergraduates study abroad in their W&M careers. More than 750 undergraduate students study abroad each year in more than 50 countries around the world. The Global Education Office (GEO) awards more than $700,000 for study abroad scholarships annually. Study abroad allows students to meet the educational objectives of the COLL 300 requirement. Joint Degree Programme (International Joint Degree Partnered with University of St Andrews in Scotland) - The Joint Degree Programme between William & Mary and the University of St Andrews is one of the few international undergraduate joint degrees offered with a U.S. university. Students complete two years at each institution and earn a single diploma--a Bachelor of Arts (International Honours - with the insignia of both institutions). The Programme offers you a greater range of academic experiences than either school can offer on its own. It gives you the opportunity to experience two distinct intellectual and national cultures. Your studies will have more breadth than a traditional St Andrews degree as well as more specialization than is usual at William & Mary. Office of Undergraduate Academic Affairs (Pre-Major Advising, Major Advisors, Peer Advisors, Pre-Professional Program Advisors) - The Office of Undergraduate Academic Affairs (OUAA) combines the work of academic advising plus fellowships and scholarships. With continued consultation with faculty, they offer comprehensive support for students across the spectrum of advising, from matriculation to post-graduate fellowships. They can help students connect with faculty advisors, identify curricular and co-curricular opportunities to further their academic goals, find additional resources to enhance their educational experience, and learn about national fellowships. Reves Center for International Studies (International Affairs, Global Education, Global Engagement, International Students and Scholars) - The Reves Center for International Studies is the home of the office of the Vice Provost for International Affairs as well as the Global Education Office and the Office of International Students, Scholars, and Programs. Swem Library (Find and Borrow Books, Get Help and Support, Resource Aid, Study Spaces) – We are proud to offer a collection of more than 2 million books, journals, manuscripts, and government documents and films, electronic access to many of our resources from anywhere in the world, a staff with over 870 years of expertise, varied study areas, including group study rooms, study carrels, collaboration booths and media studios, computers, printers, and lots more! Washington Center (DC Semester Program, DC Winter Seminar, DC Summer Institutes, DC Summer Session) - Started in 2001, the Washington Center partners with faculty from departments and schools across William & Mary to offer high-impact learning experiences for students in all majors. Among the diverse topics offered are government, policy, culture, business, and education. Since its inception, the Center has grown to become W&M’s “Campus in the City,” running Study in DC academic opportunities for almost 300 undergraduate students year-round, with a growing scholarship fund to support them. |
Campus LifeAthletics (Teams, Schedules, Tickets) - Athletics is an integral part of the educational experience at William & Mary. Our responsibility is to deliver a holistic experience with high standards of performance; providing an environment where champions of uncompromising character, fully engaged with campus and the community, prepare to make a positive impact in a complex and changing world. Varsity Sports include Baseball, Men’s & Women’s Basketball, Men’s & Women’s Cross Country, Field Hockey, Football, Men’s & Women’s Golf, Men’s & Women’s Gymnastics, Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s & Women’s Soccer, Men’s & Women’s Swimming, Men’s & Women’s Tennis, Men’s & Women’s Track & Field, and Women’s Volleyball. Campus Recreation (Fitness & Wellness, Intramurals, Sport Clubs, Tribe Adventures, Aquatics & Safety, and Equipment Rental) - We provide quality recreational opportunities to all members of the William & Mary community to enhance and foster a lifelong appreciation for health, wellness and recreation. Center for Student Diversity (African American, Asian, Pacific Island, and Middle Eastern (APIM), LGBTQ+, Latinx students, Diversity & Inclusion, Support & Advocacy, Spirituality & Faith, Diversity Workshops, Academic, Cultural and Social, Social Justice Programming & Events) - If Admissions is the front door then the Center for Student Diversity (CSD) would be considered the warm and welcoming family den to our underserved and underrepresented students. We focus on making sure African American, Asian, Pacific Island, and Middle Eastern (APIM), LGBTQ+, and Latinx students have a dynamic experience and thrive as they matriculate here at W&M. We also provide training and educational opportunities for student organizations, faculty, and staff, specifically to support and enhance their knowledge of working with diverse populations while promoting inclusive excellence. We appreciate and celebrate intersectionality and difference! Community Engagement (Education Programs, Branch Out Alternative Breaks, Aim 4, Voter Engagement) - The Office of Community Engagement connects William & Mary and community to support students’ development as active and educated citizens and to promote positive, community-driven social change. Our vision is that students will prioritize working within and understanding community in a lifelong pursuit of social justice. Fraternity & Sorority Life (Fraternities, Sororities, How to Join, Resources) - A community is comprised of many different components, and the Fraternity and Sorority Community at William & Mary is no different. Not only are we made up of about 1700 members belonging to approximately 29 chapters, but we are also a community with four governing councils (and executive boards), an honor organization, and staff. Residence Life (Move in, Move out, Housing, Community Engagement on Campus) - Through our variety of living options and 170+ trained and talented student staff, we display our fervent devotion to the Tribe by working to make your living experience safe, secure and comfortable. Together we strive to create an atmosphere that encourages, nurtures friendships and belonging, and allows you to learn, develop, explore and find your place in the William & Mary community. Student Affairs (Campus Living, Career Development, Health & Wellness, Student Engagement & Leadership, Student Success, The Haven) - Through student-centered programs, policies, and services, the Division of Student Affairs prepares students to learn, lead, and live with integrity and purpose. Our vision is to create an engaging learning environment where community is strengthened and individuals flourish. Student Leadership Development (Clubs & Organizations, Fraternity & Sorority Life, Leadership Development Initiatives, Student Assembly) - At William & Mary, we believe that student leadership development is a cornerstone in supporting our students to become engaged citizens. Leaders develop a skill set to adapt to change, craft creative solutions, and seize opportunities. Getting involved gives you a limitless practice field, and we're here to support you! |
Support ServicesCare Support Services (Medical Modifications, Leave of Absence, Concerns of Wellbeing, HEART Fund) - Care Support Services provides outreach, advocacy, and support services that assist and empower students in identifying and managing interpersonal, academic, and wellness concerns. When students face significant challenges to their mental, physical, and social health, we help in identifying and accessing resources both on and off campus to meet students' needs. Career Development & Professional Engagement - We offer career development programs, services, connections, and resources, empowering students to achieve their career goals. Dean of Students Office (Academic Enrichment, Care Support Services, Community Values & Restorative Practices, Parent & Family Programs, Student Accessibility Services, Student Services) - The Dean of Students Office assists all students, graduate and undergraduate, from their initial orientation through the completion of their academic and personal goals. The Haven (Confidential Resource- sexual violence, harassment, abuse, stalking) - The Haven is a peer-based confidential, welcoming and inclusive resource center for those impacted by sexual violence and harassment, relationship abuse and intimate-partner violence, stalking and other gender-based discrimination. Informational Technology (Computer support, Support chat, Email, Passwords) - William & Mary Information Technology is a service-based organization, first and foremost. We will always be ready with creative solutions for all your technology needs. The Parent & Family Council (PFC) – The PFC is a select group of parent donors who serve as the volunteer philanthropic board for the Division of Student Affairs at William & Mary. The council comprises national and international representation, as well as both alumni and non-alumni families. Throughout the year, council members interact with university administrators to learn about, provide feedback on, and advocate for university priorities, representing and communicating with the university’s wider parent community. Parent & Family Programs (Parent & Family Orientation, Family Weekend, Parent & Family Facebook Group, Webinar Series, Care Packages) - We want parents and families to have all of the resources necessary for their William & Mary experience to be as enriching and rewarding as We recognize that having a student in college can be both an exciting and challenging experience. Our goal and vision is to help ease that process while providing resources, student stories, opportunities for involvement and a parent support network. Student Accessibility Services (Physical and Educational Accommodations, Watson Lab, Special Needs Housing) - The mission of Student Accessibility Services is to create a barrier-free environment for matriculating students with debilitating diagnosed conditions by considering reasonable accommodations upon request on an individual and flexible basis. We strive to foster student independence, to encourage self-determination, to emphasize empowerment and accommodation over limitation, and to create a comprehensive, accessible environment to ensure that individuals are viewed based on contribution, not deficit. Student Services (Course Withdrawals/ Institutional Withdrawals/Re-enrollments) - We believe education has the power to transform lives. Student Services offers a student-centered approach to provide students with opportunities to learn, lead, engage, and be bold and socially responsible. We envision to create an environment of respect, civility, access, and inclusion that engages the W&M community and values diversity. Our mission is to provide exemplary support services by assisting and educating students to achieve their educational goals in a professional, caring, and equitable manner. Student Transition Engagement Programs (STEP) (Orientation, Move In, Transition Support, First-Year Honor Societies) - STEP supports the transition of students through and out of their W&M community experience by helping to develop community while providing services, outreach, and support encompassed within year-round Community Initiatives and signature programs such as New Student Orientation and our Find, Form, and Focus Your Experience (F3YE) opportunities. Student Unions & Engagement (Event planning, Alma Mater Productions (AMP), Student Employment, Student Unions Operation) - The mission of the Student Unions & Engagement Office is to provide excellent access to facilities, equipment, service, and assistance to all members of the W&M community for their events and activities. Office of Student Veteran Engagement (Applications, GI Bill Benefits, Transfer of Credits, and Support Services) - The Office of Student Veteran Engagement (OSVE) supports veteran students in a variety of ways, from bolstering the efforts of veteran student organizations to connecting veterans with resources on and off-campus. The staff assist in finding internship and employment opportunities, coordinating initiatives across all schools and programs, working to expand veteran enrollment, and seeking support for other university veteran programs. |
Health & SafetyCenter for Mindfulness & Authentic Excellence (Authentic Excellence Initiative, Health Coaching, Building Connections & Bridging Differences) - The Center for Mindfulness and Authentic Excellence works to teach us tools for resilience and share the message that when we seek to optimize — versus maximize — our wellness across all eight dimensions, we flourish. Counseling Center (Mental Health, Relationships, Family Concerns, Identity Development, Personal Growth) - Located in the McLeod Tyler Wellness Center, we offer a range of mental health services to students wanting help with personal concerns. Our staff specializes in the developmental issues and clinical concerns common to college students such as relationship and family issues, academic and personal stress, identity development, and personal growth. Emergency Information (Tribe Alerts, Emergency Management Team, Emergency Notification System) - William & Mary is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for its students, faculty, employees and visitors to learn, teach, work and enjoy our beautiful campus and all it offers. In pursuit of that goal, the university takes a comprehensive approach to protecting the campus community and preparing for any emergency. Although a university campus is among the safest places you can be, we work every day to make our campus safer. Using the university's emergency notification system, the Emergency Management Team will notify the campus community of any confirmed emergency or dangerous situation that presents an immediate threat to the health or safety of the community. Office of Health Promotion (Workshops on Sleep, Nutrition, Alcohol and Other Substances, Sexual Wellness) – Located in the McLeod Tyler Wellness Center, we work to enhance the overall health and wellness of the W&M campus community through evidence-informed prevention efforts. By advancing a holistic and multidimensional view of wellness, we promote a culture of healthy behavior and choices that improve quality of life. W&M Police Department - William & Mary police officers have the same training and police authority, including powers of arrest, as all other police officers in Virginia. We provide professional police, public safety, emergency communications, and emergency management services that include active police patrol 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week; crime prevention services; critical incident response; criminal investigation; security technology systems; student training on Response to an Active Shooter Incident, Alcohol and Other Drugs Awareness, Rape Aggression Defense; and victim/witness support services. |
