The College of William & Mary seeks energetic students of high academic ability who represent a diversity of backgrounds, interests and special abilities.  Through careful consideration of these and other application materials, the Admission Committee attempts to identify students who will flourish at the College both academically and personally.  Since more students apply than can be accommodated, the College uses a selective process of admission.  Most candidates present the strongest college preparatory program available to them, and Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, honors and accelerated courses are considered favorably in the evaluation process.

High school grades and class range, together with SAT or ACT scores, are valid predictors of success in college, and those students who do best at William and Mary have performed well scholastically in hight school.  The Admission Committee discerns these qualities from extracurricular involvement, special talents and experiences, recommendations and application essays.  The most subjective part of the application, essays provide insight into a student's goals and motivations.