Washington and Lee University is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States, located in Lexington, Virginia. Its Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics is among the top undergraduate business programs, and its student-run honor system, in place since 1842, defines a campus culture of trust and integrity.
Mascot: General
Notable Alumni
Tom Wolfe (iconic author and journalist)•Cy Twombly (renowned modern artist)•Roger Mudd (Emmy-winning journalist)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
With roughly 75% of undergrads in Greek organizations, W&L has one of the highest fraternity/sorority participation rates in the country — Greek life doesn't just influence the social scene, it IS the social scene. The Southern tradition runs deep with a formal Honor System, 'speaking tradition' (greeting everyone on campus), and a preppy dress code that students actually follow. If you don't go Greek, you'll need to work harder to build a social life.
One of America's most beautiful campuses, with white-columned neoclassical buildings anchored by the iconic Lee Chapel set against the Blue Ridge Mountains and the historic Colonnade, exuding timeless Virginia grandeur.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
One of the lowest campus crime rates among liberal arts colleges. Public Safety is well-staffed with 22 full-time and 19 part-time members, plus 82 emergency phones.
Lexington is a tiny, historic Virginia town in the Shenandoah Valley with very low crime rates. Exceptionally safe and walkable.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Weekdays during the academic year; select Saturday events
Duration: ~60 minutes tour, plus group information session
Info session covers academics, application process, financial aid, and scholarships. Walking tours led by University Ambassadors focus on daily student life. Self-guided walking tours always available when formal tours are at capacity.
Book a TourSelf-guided walking tours are available anytime, including when formal tour capacity is full. The historic Colonnade and campus architecture are well-signed.
Tour ResourcesSeptember-November for beautiful Shenandoah Valley fall colors and active campus. Late March-April is also excellent. Lexington is charming year-round but campus empties during breaks. Combine with a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Free visitor parking on campus. Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA) is about 60 minutes south; Charlottesville (CHO) is 70 minutes east. Lexington is accessible via I-81 and I-64. No public transit -- a rental car is essential. The town itself is very walkable from campus.
Location
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