Please type at least the first 4 letters of the school name.

Villanova University Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Villanova University reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Villanova University. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Villanova University reviews, or contribute your own Villanova University review if you're a current student there.

  • 11 out of 12 people found this review useful.

    David from Williamstown, NJ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The class experiences are definitely rewarding if you put the time and effort into the course material. Those who stay reasonably caught up with assigned readings and homework will get a lot out of the courses and will find they learn much more than they would have expected going into the class.
    Am enjoying being here

    The students on Villanova's campus are some of the most intelligent, friendly, and generally likable group of people you'll meet at any college environment. Everyone is very down to earth and it's easy to get into the social scene and enjoy yourself. The campus is easily navigable and not overly big, but at the same time not tiny so it is easy to get around. Overall it's a blast to be on Villanova's campus.

    Bang for the buck

    Villanova is definitely an expensive school; there's no getting around that fact. However, in terms of job placement opportunities after graduation, quality of instruction, and the amount of potential internships and networking opportunities available to students it's all worth the high cost. Many professors have extensive real life experience in their field of study and know exactly how to prepare students and get the most out of them in terms of academic potential.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be prepared to take on a challenging workload and difficult course material initially. However, don't get discouraged as professors realize that the difference in academic expectations from High School to college will take some getting used to. It's important to stay on top of studies but attempt to have an involved social life and take advantage of all the fun activities and social outings that VIllanova has to offer.
    Great for these types of students

    Goal-oriented, ambitious, charismatic, outspoken and idealistic students.

  • 5 out of 6 people found this review useful.

    Kristen from Wexford, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The classes are without a doubt challenging but still intriguing. Professors take time to get to know their students and are willing to help you, if needed. With small class sizes, you will never be just a number. Even first year classes cover new, college-level material, instead of simply repeating things you learned in high school.
    Am enjoying being here

    The Villanova community is amazing. Students are actively involved around campus and genuinely care about each other. The campus is gorgeous and brimming with school spirit. Classes are enjoyable. There's always something to do on weekends. It's hard to find something not to like.
    Bang for the buck

    Villanova is not the most affordable college in the country, but you're guaranteed a great education. Job placement is exceedingly high. The opportunities that are available are some of the best in the nation. If you want an internship, you can get one. If you want to study abroad, you can find a program. Additionally, you'll enjoy great facilities during your time at Villanova.
    Tips for prospective students

    Have an open mind. Although Villanova is a Catholic university, it is extremely accepting of everyone. Visit campus. There is no better way to experience Villanova than to come to campus and see how the students interact with one another. For a great look at the student body, attend a basketball game.
    Great for these types of students

    Villanova is the perfect place for high-achievers. People who like to work hard but also have a lot of fun will fit right in.

  • 5 out of 6 people found this review useful.

    Madhav from VILLANOVA, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    There are many things to learn with in and outside of a classroom at Villanova. Villanova not only encourages you to become a better intellectual but encourages you to become a better person. Professors will help you alot. Many are easy to understand, you will enjoy the interactions in your classes and will be assisted with the many facilitiies available on campus. You can double major in one of the best business schools in the nation along with one of the best engineering schools too or even the well-know liberal arts school.
    Am enjoying being here

    Apart from the great academics that are offered, Villanova is in easy reach of Philadelphia city. This provides a very balanced structure of enjoying the feel of being in a campus surrounding while being an arms length away from the city. The area has alot to offer. The second largest mall in the country, The King of Prussia Mall and much more. One would be satisfied if they spent their college years here.
    Bang for the buck

    Villanova will make every effort to give you the education that you deserve. They will reduce the financial constraints that hinder you from gaining a great college education as much to their capabilities. Its a great score that you can't go wrong with.
    Tips for prospective students

    An open mind is all that is required to be here. Be open to challenges. The most rash things are things that may define who you are. We have many great people of different types and backgrounds. You will be the next new addition to our great community.
    Great for these types of students

    Though we are a big school, we strive to know each other. We cross paths with the same people so frequently through out the whole day, that it does feel like we are one big family. We strive to do the best we can because we want to do those things that lead us to believe in what we do is extraordinary. Be extraordinary because no one is ordinary.

  • 5 out of 7 people found this review useful.

    Ashley from Manchester , NJ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    A large amount of the professors at Villanova University are very knowledgeable and are able to bring their material to life. Also, their office hours are very flexible for help outside of class.
    Am enjoying being here

    Villanova University believes in community: everyone on campus quickly become close and are always willing to help. There are many extracurricular groups and club,s as well as club and intramural sports, that help students to make friends easily.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be open minded and meet as many people as you can. Also, make sure you become well acquainted with your professors. An important tip not only for Villanova students, but for all college freshmen would be to never take time for granted. Always manage your time wisely and efficiently: every second counts.
    Great for these types of students

    Those who are responsible and manage their time wisely.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Lauren from East Brunswick, NJ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    villanova is a medium-sized school with large-scale opportunities and resources. they value community, academics, sports, and the arts. there is something for everyone, and anything is possible here.
    Tips for prospective students

    definitely apply early action. this shows interest in the school, and worst comes to worst, you are put into the regular decision pool. visit on a day classes are in session and tours are being given. you get to speak with current student ambassadors, go all across campus with impeccable tour guides from the blue key society, and finally meet with admissions counselors ready to answer all of your questions.
    Academic Rigor

    each school within villanova is different, but all require a good amount of work. some have tons of group projects, others have major tests that take lots of preparation, but everything is still kept fair. there's also a large core curriculum that each student must fill, ensuring that every graduate has a liberal arts education as well as their specialty.
    Dorm Life

    most dorms are air conditioned and everything is being renovated. residence assistants are readily available and ensure a sense of community within the floor and the building as a whole. learning communities are a huge advantage, where freshmen get to take their augustinian culture seminar with people who also live in their building and also take a community-specific course with them. options for this include leadership, healthy living, art and culture, and international relations. a similar idea follows suit sophomore year, but it is community service oriented. juniors can have apartments on west campus, but senior housing is not provided.
    Food and Dining

    there are three dining halls on campus which have a variety of options, including the longest salad bar on the east coast. other smaller options are available all over campus for late-night snacks, ice cream and smoothies, food off the grill, and italian food. nothing you can try here is bad, and half of it is made fresh right in front of you!
    What to do for fun

    philadelphia is a quick train ride away, which is home to a million things to do including shops, restaurants, theaters, and museums. you can also stay on campus to participate in one of the fun things that the campus activities team has put together. bus trips occur every weekend to popular cities, shows, and sporting events. we also have a free movie theater on campus and plays to attend nightly. basketball games are extremely popular and the school spirit really comes through.
    Bang for the buck

    the tuition is high, and there's no getting around that. but villanova offers many scholarships for academics and sports, as well as need based aid. the financial aid department provides full financing options for every student, and works hard to make it affordable.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    the oreo is a very popular statue in the center of campus, which serves as a meeting spot for many students. basketball games are extremely popular and every chant and cheer is certainly a villanova tradition. we have hoops mania which is a huge pep rally featuring a surprise musical guest. the end of semester dinner is also something to look forward to. students line up over an hour ahead of time to get the delicious lobster and filet mignon that the dining halls prepare.
    Great for these types of students

    villanova truly can appeal to any type of student. it is a primarily white school, but there are so many groups for everyone to participate it. no one feels like an outcast or too different to call it their home away from home. so if you're a student who wants to have a bright future ahead of them, make life-long friends, be proud of their school, and have a blast, villanova is right for you!
    Clubs and Activities

    there are two huge activities fairs that pack the pavilion each year with stands set up all over encouraging students to get involved. everything you could possibly imagine is eager for new members, and if you can come up with something we don't already have, you can get your friends together and create it! we have everything from sports, arts, political groups, diversity groups, publication clubs, religious organizations, and our very own quidditch team.
    Greek Life

    about one-third of the students are a part of greek life at villanova, but unlike some other schools, greek life is just another activity people add to their lists. it is not the only thing someone is able to do. those involved in greek life can still join sports, be in a choir, and write for the newspaper. there are also no greek houses on campus, which separate the two worlds a bit.
    Campus Safety

    i do not know anyone who has ever felt unsafe on campus. it is a gated campus with public safety constantly walking and riding the campus. if you ever feel unsafe, you can call public safety and they will come immediately and take you where you need to be. e-mails and text messages are sent in case of emergency, and smaller infractions are posted in the villanovan, our newspaper, as well as around residence halls.

  • 2 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Harold from Aston, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    At Villanova, they provide a very challenging course load but, the academic rigor follows a trend that provides the best type of learning situation for all of their students. As a freshmen, the school provides a challenging schedule yet carefully transitions students into the rigors of a college education. While the workload becomes naturally more challenging each year, each student enters into the next year of their college career fully equipped with all the knowledge needed to succeed. Most importantly, the work load does not inhibit social interaction. Students are still able to find time to enjoy themselves and make friends, thereby creating many memories and experiencing the full college experience. The one and only drawback, which can be found in any school, is the core curriculum that must completed before one is able to graduate. While it does allow for students to be more well rounded, it ends up creating scheduling problems. Also many of the required classes usually have nothing to do with the major you wish to pursue and often times seem pointless. These core curriculum classes do present certain scheduling issues but, through learning to handle these classes, one can receive a very good and well rounded education.
    Am enjoying being here

    Villanova's campus is beautiful, and while it is spacious it is not so big that walking to class becomes a problem. The people at Villanova are extremely friendly and easy to get along with. There are many musical groups, theater groups, various clubs and intramural sports as well as the Greek life on campus which allow for a perfect social environment. If anything, social life on campus is not an issue. The food on campus in the dinning halls is decent at best. It varies depending on the special of the day. The A la Carte places on campus are very good. There are three main places on main campus; The Connelly Center, The Italian Kitchen and Corner Grille, all of which are very good. On West Campus, there is a small convenience store inside of St. Mary's Hall, Second Storey. This stays open until 2 every night and also serves very good food. On average, on a scale of 1-10 the food on campus gets a 7. Lastly, the dorm rooms vary from very good to decent/bad. The good freshmen dorms are Good Counsel, Caughlin ( All Girls Dorms), McGuire Hall (all guys dorm, aka: ManGuire), and Katherine. The South Campus freshmen dorm, Standford Hall is not nearly as good as the others, although, it is the social hot spot and the dorm where all athletes stay. In some of the bigger roomed dorms (such as McGuire and Good Counsel), the school makes forced triple situations where three people will be put in a room originally made for two. While this sounds like a terrible living situation and completely unfair, the school will take the cost 1 student must pay for housing and pay it back to those in the forced triple, splitting this three different ways and paying each student. Lastly, all of the freshmen dorms are air conditioned/ heated.
    Bang for the buck

    While the tuition at Villanova is at a steep 50,000 a year, it is well worth the money. The education level at Villanova is amazing. The amount of knowledge obtain is unmeasurable and the friendships you make are even more invaluable. The beautiful campus, great educational experience, and wonderful and friendly people only entices people into the welcoming family that is Villanova. I absolutely love Villanova and anyone who attends or has attended Villanova will say the same.
    Tips for prospective students

    A couple tips which I'll number so that its a little easier to read:
    1. Take as many AP's as you can! the more college credit going in the better, especially when trying to deal with the core curriculum at Villanova.
    2. Start looking for scholarships ASAP! Tuition is in no way cheap.
    3. Start buying school supplies now. Preparing early not only beats the rush but also allows you to double check and make sure you have everything you need, this is especially important if you live a long way from Villanova.
    4. Be prepared to work when you first arrive on campus. Many time when people think of college they think of drinking and partying, and while that exist on Villanova's campus as well as all college campuses, it is important that time is taken to secure academic stability. Its a lot easier to maintain a good GPA than to revive a bad one.
    5. Look online for school books. The books in the book store are marked up extremely high and are very expensive. If you can find a better deal take it.
    6. At the end of the year, if you think you'll need a book for a future class, keep it. The few 10's of dollars you get back when you sell back to book is not worth you buying a similar book next year.
    7. Keep an open mind in your academic major decision. Don't get so caught up in one major that you end up following something you hate.
    8. Get involved! There are many groups on campus that fit every different kind of hobby from athletics to music and there is even a quidditch club (yes that soccer like game from harry potter.)
    9. Last but not least... have fun and enjoy the college experience.
    Great for these types of students

    Easy going, goal- oriented, motivated

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Kaitlyn from Upper Darby, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Villanova is all about community. Everyone is so nice and welcoming. When you come here, you know you are a part of something special - something bigger than yourself. It is a great experience.
    Academic Rigor

    The classes are challenging, but you learn a lot from your professors. Villanova professors want you to succeed, and they are always available to meet and discuss any difficulties you may be experiencing regarding the material.
    Dorm Life

    Living in a dorm is one of the best experiences of my life. I love being surrounded by my friends and hall-mates, and we always have a great time hanging out together.
    Food and Dining

    The dining halls are really nice, but like all colleges the food just can't beat a home-cooked meal.
    What to do for fun

    There are tons of opportunities to have fun on and off campus. There are movies shown every weekend in the on-campus theater. There is an off-campus shuttle that drops students off next to Hope's Cookies and Peace a Pizza. There is also an off-campus shuttle to the King of Prussia Mall, and it is easy to take the train into Philadelphia or Washington, D.C..
    Clubs and Activities

    The best thing about Villanova is that there is so much to get involved in! Everyone is active in the community, and getting involved truly enhances the college experience.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Michael from NJ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    Get involved in clubs, and if you don't know anything about basketball, read up.
    Great for these types of students

    Smart, hard working, creative, dedicated, willing to do service, into sports

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Gregory from Alpharetta, GA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I came into Villanova with the attitude that I would have to work a little in order to achieve academic success. I was wrong. You must work hard in order to achieve academic success at Villanova. The course work is challenging but also relevant to the real world. After an internship last summer, the hard work really paid off because Villanova had prepared me for the work that I'd be facing.
    Am enjoying being here

    Villanova is like many other schools in the respect that it is what you make of it. For instance, I enjoy volunteering my time and Villanova has ample opportunities for volunteers. However, if volunteering is not your thing then you still have other options of what you'd like to get involved with.
    Bang for the buck

    While the price tag on Villanova is steep, the teaching staff is quite knowledgeable and are readily available to help if you ask. In addition the facilities around campus are a graceful mix of modern and stone buildings that provide a beautiful walk in the Early Spring and Late Fall. Also, the food variety is excellent.
    Tips for prospective students

    -Come in ready to work, but also ready to have fun
    -Be organized in your approach to work
    -Make the most of your time at Villanova by getting involved with a group
    Great for these types of students

    Hard Workers, Self Starters,

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Philip from Huntingdon Valley, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Villanova is a great academic school. The classes are small enough to get one on one time with the teachers if you do not understand a concept. The largest classes are the lecture hall which probably are around 70 kids. All of the teachers are welcoming to questions and have office hours that are designated for extra student help. This school gives you every opportunity to succeed.
    Am enjoying being here

    Villanova is really like any other college in the sense of fun. They seem to be known as college that is not a lot of fun, but like anything else if you put yourself out there you will have fun. I am an incoming sophomore and enjoy being at Villanova University there is a lot to offer here, academically and socially.
    Bang for the buck

    Villanova University is an expensive school, but that is because it is a Catholic school or private school it is not government funded or regulated. Although tuition is expensive if you are a person that can not afford college they give you a lot of grants through FASFA and usually the tuition is more manageable for people in need of financial assistance.
    Tips for prospective students

    Just understand that college is not high school anymore. I know that many high school kids do not work hard and still manage to maintain a great gpa but in college you have to adjust to doing more work. Finally, learn how to balance school work, social life, and extra-curricular activities; do not do too much of one thing or the others will be affected.
    Great for these types of students

    Villanova University is a great college for students who want to put learning and education first. There is plenty if fun here, but remember this is not penn state. It is a great school for people who intend to major in Business or Engineering.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Josephine from East Brunswick, NJ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    From the moment that my four-day freshmen orientation ended, I knew that Villanova would be different. Not only did I benefit academically here at Villanova, but I also gain plenty of experiences of working with others. Whether it is being a part of Inter-Hall Council (coordinates activites between student dorms) or participating in RUIBAL (Reaching Urban Individuals By Action and Love), the opportunities are endless at Villanova. I not only learned about the people around me, but I learned a lot about myself as well. Though I agree that whichever college one might attend, he or she will always go through an experience of self-discovery. However, here at Villanova, you discover more about yourself by stepping out of your comfort zone. At RUIBAL, for instance, freshmen get the chance to give back to the community by interacting with or tutoring kids from the inner city Philadelphia areas. By getting involved with RUIBAL, I not only learned about the economic situations that these kids are in, but I also learned that by doing something as small as playing with them during playtime can make a big difference in their lives. I realized that these small actions can leave a big impact on a child's life.
    Am enjoying being here

    If I only had one word to describe Villanova, it would be community. I appreciate all the opportunities Villanova gives to its students to get involved with and make a difference in the lives of many. For instance, a student can get involved with Special Olympics, whether it is being on the committee that organizes the event itself or managing one of the many activity stands for the athletes. Not only does Villanova give students a chance to give back to the community, but gives them opportunities to get to know one another; from CAT (Campus Activities Team) or Inter-Hall Council, Villanova organizes various events in order to give the students a more exciting campus experience and a chance to build friendships that will last after graduation. Through all these different opportunities to interact with others, I definitely made the right choice coming to Villanova.
    Bang for the buck

    I will not doubt that Villanova is expensive; however, the experience and the resources available at Villanova are well worth the price. From the Career Center to the different research opportunities, there is practically no end to the resources that are available for students. For instance, one just has to go to the Career Center if he or she is looking for an internship or is looking to brush up on his or her resume writing skills. In addition to these resources, the education given to the students is well worth the price. With Villanova being ranked nationally as the university with one of the best engineering, business, law, and nursing programs, students will be well prepared after graduation to pursue the career of their choice.
    Tips for prospective students

    Do not be surprised by the spirit that is the Villanovan community; here at Villanova University, there are plenty of opportunities to interact with and give back to the community whether through organizations such as Habitat for Humanity or Rays of Sunshine. Be ready to take advantage of the numerous amounts of resources available, such as the Office for Student Development (if one wants to create a new club, for example) or the Career Center.
    Great for these types of students

    Villanova University is ideal for any student who wishes to be a part of the Villanovan community and is willing to use the spirit and power of this community to better the lives of others.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Kelly from Eagan, MN

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Especially if you are an engineering major like I am.
    Will enjoy being here

    Oh yeah.
    Bang for the buck

    They are known for not giving out much financial aid because a majority of the students that attend are fairly well off, but if money is tight for any of you like it is for me, then they will make sure to give you enough money and are fully capable of it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure you attend Candidates Day. It was the deciding factor for me as I was able to talk with so many people on campus and each and every person I spoke with was very kind and willing to answer any of your questions.
    Great for these types of students

    Hardworking students that have a central focus on academics, yet know how to let loose and have fun on the weekends.

  • 0 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Nicholas from Manalapan, NJ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Villanova is a fairly small private school with an extremely rigorous education. You need to work hard to do well, and there are many resources available on campus to help you. Villanova's reputation is one of great success.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be sure to get into the college frame of mind because you will hit the ground running with work as soon as you start classes. Villanova is no joke academically-you will be challenged and you will have a lot of work to do
    Academic Rigor

    High academic rigor with high expectations
    Dorm Life

    Personally, I have had nothing but negative experiences in regards to dorm life. But in general, dorm life is not very lively most people go out
    Food and Dining

    I have nothing positive to say about the dining on campus
    What to do for fun

    Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Villanova Football/Basketball games, Special Olympics
    Bang for the buck

    Villanova is extremely expensive
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Hold up your V by making a V shape with your index and middle finger to represent Villanova and have great school spirit!
    Great for these types of students

    White, Roman Catholic
    Those who love community service
    Fairly conservative-minded people
    Clubs and Activities

    There is a variety of things to do at Villanova
    Greek Life

    Greek life is not advertised when visiting/exploring the school, but it is more prominent than one would think. Not my cup of tea

  • 0 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Ronna from Ashtabula, OH

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Villanova is great all around! The food is awesome and the people are really nice. It was easy to adapt to being far from home at Nova.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit the campus before you decide, no matter what college!
    What to do for fun

    There's a shuttle that runs to the King of Prussia mall ever Friday and Saturday. Parties starting usually on Thursday nights. Philly is pretty close, so that's always an option. There's an on-campus shuttle that runs to Rosemont, about a mile down the road, every day. There's a McDonald's, CVS, cookie and pizza shop, tanning salon, and probably lots of other things there. There's plenty of nearby places to eat, and on the weekends, there's always something going on somewhere on campus. Never boring around there.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who are serious about their work, but still ready to have a lot of fun!
    Greek Life

    People seem to be happy with the greek life, but I decided not to join on account of the university being unable to fund frat and sorority houses.

  • 3 out of 16 people found this review useful. 1 person found this inaccurate.

    Mahjeed from Mather, CA

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    campus like boston college
    Great for these types of students

    stay on top of the people financial aid dept

  • Anonymous

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Every single person I've met at Villanova is absolutely wonderful- from students to staff and even just the local community members. The campus not so big that I feel overwhelmed, but big enough to enjoy its beauty. The community atmosphere at Villanova gives every person on campus a feeling of belonging.
    Tips for prospective students

    First, get involved. Although Villanova isn’t the biggest school, they have opportunities for everyone to join in and get involved as a true “Villanovan”. There is everything from Student Theater and newspaper, to intramural sports and academic clubs. Don’t be afraid to be yourself, and remember that it’s perfectly acceptable to introduce yourself to every person you walk by those first few weeks of school! The Villanova community is so tight it’s impossible not to find the place where you fit in. Take advantage of every moment from orientation to finals. Your time at Villanova will go way faster than you could ever imagine!
    Academic Rigor

    Much of the academic rigor at Villanova depends on the college you are enrolled in and the classes you choose. Generally, those in Liberal Arts have the least rigorous schedule and those in Engineering have the most. However, Villanova is a highly selective school and if you have the high school record to get in, you should be able to handle the rigor of the college work. Class sizes are very small (usually around 20-30 for non-lab classes) making it easy to get to know your professors and get help when you need it. Villanova has a wide variety of courses for all majors and interests, and much of the rigor of your academics is dependent on how hard you are willing to push yourself.
    Dorm Life

    Some of the dorms are very nice, and some are not. Generally, freshmen are housed on South campus, however there are some other freshman dorms located on main campus that are considered not as nice. No matter what the dorm, they are all very safe and located not far from campus, and more importantly close to food. To be guaranteed one of the “nice” dorms you should sign up for a freshman Learning Community. There are many different themes, however no matter what theme you sign up for you attend freshman seminar and live with the people who are in the same Learning Community as you. Learning Communities provide a way for freshmen to connect with others in their dorms, and expand their knowledge on certain topics. Overall, Villanova makes a conscious effort to satisfy the housing needs of every student, and tries to make each person’s residence hall experience a memorable one.
    Food and Dining

    The campus has numerous places to eat and a great variety of food. No matter where you are on campus, there is always somewhere to get food close by, even late at night. The meal plans can be kind of confusing at first, however it only takes a few weeks to get used to it and once you do it's worth it. As far as buffet style dining halls, the Donahue Court (South Campus) has the best food/variety, however Dougherty Hall (Main Campus) has the best salad bar. All dining halls have all you can eat soft serve frozen yogurt. When the dining halls aren't open there are plenty of a la carte locations and convenience stores where you can also use your meal plans to get food. Villanova also has its own Starbucks concept called Holy Grounds, which is great for getting a quick pick me up in the morning, or grabbing a muffin for breakfast.
    What to do for fun

    Villanova doesn't have frat row or any type of housing like this on campus, since it is a dry campus for the most part. However, there are plenty of opportunities to have fun on and off campus. The Campus Activities Team (CAT) hosts movies in the Cinemas every Friday and Saturday night, as well as many other events such as beach trips, concerts, and even a shuttle to the King of Prussia Mall. Both the R500 and R100 Septa trains run through campus making it easy to get to restaurants and other attractions both in local towns, and in the great city of Philadelphia. If the party scene is more for you, many of the fraternities and sports teams host weekly parties off campus which are easily accessible by taxi. Sometimes, clubs in Philadelphia are rented out and for the price of a $20 or $30 ticket you will board a bus and go out for a night of fun.
    Bang for the buck

    Although Villanova is one of the most expensive universities in the country, you definitely get what you pay for. You get an incredible private school education that promises almost every student a job or acceptance to a graduate program after they graduate. Not only do you get a quality education, but Villanova loves to give out free stuff. Sometimes its a midday snack hosted by the Business School, a carnival (complete with inflatable rides) hosted by the Campus Activities Team, or even free goodies from Villanova's sponsor, American Eagle. Aside from material gains, the connections and friendships you make at Villanova are invaluable compared to the costs of tuition.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Everything at Villanova is abbreviated or shortened- for example the dining hall on Main Campus (Dougherty) is the Pit, the one on South Campus (Donahue) is the Spit, and the convenience store on South Campus is the Sparket. Even off campus locations like King of Prussia Mall get their abbreviations (KoP). Learning this abbreviations is a tradition that is part of the fun of becoming a Villanovan.
    Great for these types of students

    Stereotypically, Villanova is for preppy, upper middle class students. Even though a lot of the student population fits this stereotype, there is a place for everyone on campus, and I would encourage a visit to see if it's really for you.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are hundreds of clubs and activities on campus- I don't even know about half of them. For the college you're in, there will be a club for your major or concentration. If you like sports, you'll find and intramural sport that fits your interests. Maybe you're more of the artsy type, there is a Student Theater group as well as many art clubs. There is even Student Government, newspaper, yearbook, new student orientation committee, and Blue Key tour guides, just to name a few. Being a catholic school, Villanova also has a strong campus ministry program (which caters to EVERY religion) and offers many service opportunities every week. Whether you're looking to continue with your high school interests, or discover new ones, Villanova will most definitely have something to offfer.
    Greek Life

    Villanova is home to 8 sororities and 9 fraternities, with another sorority receiving a charter in the Spring of 2013. There are also other special interest sororities and fraternities on campus. Although Villanova does not provide housing for Greek Life, the groups inevitably form inseparable bonds. The sororities and fraternities at Villanova are all service based, however they participate in many social events throughout the year including formals and cocktail parties. The biggest Greek Life event of the year occurs with April's Greek Week, which is a competition between all the sororities and fraternities, unifying Villanova's Greek Life.
    Campus Safety

    Villanova's Public Safety department works hard with the Radnor Police to ensure that every student on campus is safe. Although it is bothersome sometimes, and Pub Safe ruins some of the fun, the benefits of the safety they provide is worth it. Burglary on campus is rare, and it is difficult for outsiders to enter campus, and especially dorm buildings. Even walking around campus, Public Safety is always just a phone call away in case of an emergency, and they're always willing to accompany students if they ever feel unsafe.

  • Rebecca from IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Villanova is a good school for those looking for a school with prestige, yet not a crazy amount of super difficult academics. There is a strong presence of both the Catholic religion with which the college is associated, and the importance of community service. Villanova also offers many great programs in any area of study if you're looking to study abroad, contact alumni, or work with professors.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit the campus and make sure it's what you are looking for. Look into any campus activities you may want to participate in ahead of time, for some require auditions or tryouts pretty early into the year. Apply for any scholarships you can; Villanova gives out money to those who look for it.
    Academic Rigor

    The courses are not too bad, pretty much on par or above that of any other school like 'Nova. Teachers can be rough at times, especially as a freshman when you don't know which teachers to avoid, but you learn quickly and adapt to anything. There is help in any subject if you need it, and classmates often get together to study or work.
    Dorm Life

    Freshman dorms can be good or bad. You can be stuck in a converted-triple (something you can avoid by sending in your deposit right away), but even that isn't too bad. Housing will work with you if you have any problems. Housing for Sophomore and Junior year are chosen with a lottery system, so there is a lot of luck involved with those decisions, but all in all, there's not a dorm that is just plain terrible. You can adapt pretty easily wherever you go. Senior housing is off campus, or at least until they build their projected senior housing (which looks amazing in the plans).
    Food and Dining

    There are three all-you-can-eat dining halls on campus, each located on one of the three parts of campus. Also on the main stretch of campus there are other dining options, including fast-food type stuff, coffeehouses, and a place to get a great cheesesteak. There are many restaurants which are close by as well, so your options are not limited to just campus food.
    What to do for fun

    The location of Villanova is great. It's in a good neighborhood, and you are a quick train ride into Philly. There are two train stops on campus alone, plus the public bus and a campus-run shuttle bus to accommodate those who have to trek across the hilly terrain. Being from Illinois, I was worried about how to get to the airport, but there is usually a shuttle run by 'Nova that you can take straight to the airport. Otherwise, you can take the train into Philly and connect to another train to the airport, which is also quite easy to navigate.
    Bang for the buck

    It can sound really expensive, which it can be. There are plenty of opportunities to get aid, however. And the campus is going through a massive construction plan (happening in increments over the next few years) that will vastly improve the campus. Plans include housing for seniors, and shops on campus.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    If you visit campus, you have to visit the Oreo. A statue outside the Connelly Center, it is a favorite of the students and is a common meeting place.
    Clubs and Activities

    There is a wide range of activities you can participate in. Music/Art is not that well supported, but there are a dedicated number of people who still participate. It is really easy to get involved on campus.

  • Nicole from Sacramento

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Villanova University is an amazing university. As a Business Major, I have access to so many internships, mentors and hopefully future employers. I love it here.
    Tips for prospective students

    Get involved. The university is located in a suburb of Philadelphia, and while city life is a short train ride away, unless you are involved in greek life or other school activities the weekends can be dead.
    Academic Rigor

    Villanova offers all levels of rigor. It is not easy to get into the Business school, so your peers are often from the top 10% of their high school class. The professors are always available to help though if you need them.
    Dorm Life

    Students live in the dorms for the first two years here and then typically live off campus for the last two years. Freshman live across the street from campus, sophomores on campus...which is very convenient in the cold weather or when you wake up late for class.
    Food and Dining

    The dining halls offer a vast variety of options. And there are a number of meal plans so you can choose to eat in the dining hall or closer to class if you wish. My favorite thing is at the end of each semester they have a end of semester dinner with prime rib and other delicious food.
    What to do for fun

    Whatever is fun to you is here. School sporting events (football, basketball, lacrosse, track) are here, greek life, shopping at one of the best malls in the nation. There is always something to do.
    Bang for the buck

    Over 90% of Business Majors have a job within 6 months of graduation (average salary $70,000+) or decide to go onto graduate school. Many juniors have summer internships paying $50,000+ for the summer!
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    All students (who want to) participate in events to help the youth in Philadelphia....everyone does it. Its a great way to give back to the community.
    Great for these types of students

    Over 50% of students Study Abroad...I'm going to Italy next fall. The school helps set up the entire study abroad program for those that are interested in doing it. Great way to learn more about the world.
    Greek Life

    Over 30% of students participate in Greek Life...it's a great way to get involved.
    Campus Safety

    I feel very safe on campus. Security is always available to help people get home late at night if you need it.

  • Christopher from Katonah, NY

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Students are warm and friendly, and many have a passion for community service. The professors are, on the whole, proficient and knowledgeable and mirror the genial atmosphere. The campus is beautiful, being neither too big nor too small.
    Tips for prospective students

    -The new core requirements have changed which AP scores are accepted and how many can be used to meet core requirements.
    -The Connections pre-orientation summer retreat is a great way to make friends and get a feel for campus before the year officially starts. Having connections already makes the orientation process much easier.
    Academic Rigor

    As with everything, you get out what you put in. If you want to just relax your way through college, you can. But there are ample challenges available, such as pursuing multiple majors, taking honors versions of courses and entering the intense (but highly rewarding) Interdisciplinary Humanities program. While Villanova's teachers are proficient, the Honors program recruits professors of a higher caliber to run more difficult seminars for those highly interested and motivated students willing to work outside of class and contribute to the class.
    Dorm Life

    There is a lottery to determine who picks rooms first. Freshman year roommates are matched by an adequate personality survey, and your dorm corresponds to a thematic learning community such as Peace and Justice. RA's occasionally hold hall activities. Dorm rooms are decent in size, and there is a range of choices which allow students to trade location with other room attributes. Students returning from weekend parties can be rowdy, and frat pranks have occasionally gotten out of hand (ie: pulling the fire alarm and evacuating all teh residents multiple times in one night).
    Food and Dining

    Each dining hall offers multiple stations and some variety, including vegetarian, vegan, and health-foods. However, usually only one station consistently offers novel meals from night to night. One can dislike or tire of even these changing entrees and, while the food is not *bad*, it can become tiring. There are many specialty venues around campus, however, offering everything from fried food and cheesesteaks to wraps to more gourmet choices. There are also many options just off campus. One can order in almost any type of food (including Chinese and Indian).
    What to do for fun

    There are a plethora of activities on campus. Service organizations are exceedingly popular, and there are a ton of clubs and sports to participate in. It is not difficult to create a new organization. Students are friendly and are open to videogaming and seeing movies at the campus center. Many students attend parties on weekends.

  • Natania from Philadelphia, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    villanova is a great place to attend college. thee faculty and staff assist you with any & everything-- they go above and beyond. at villanova, people care.
    Tips for prospective students

    get to know people. get involved. take advantage of opportunities because there are more than enough.
    Academic Rigor

    most people balance their work load with easy classes and difficult classes. as long as you keep up with the material and practice (for languages and math) you should be fine. the work isn't hard, but it does make you think. since i've started classes, i've seen myself change.
    Dorm Life

    dorm life is nice. the learning communities are great because it's easier to meet people and create lifelong friendships.
    Food and Dining

    there are so many places to eat on campus. every dinning hall has a salad bar. the food is great!
    What to do for fun

    too much to name!
    Bang for the buck

    it's a bit expensive, but financial aid does a great job with assisting students and there are plenty of places to work.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    two words-- mendel doug. there are other unusual things about my school, but too many to remember.
    Great for these types of students

    villanova is great for students who enjoy service, competition, community and life!
    Clubs and Activities

    all of our organizations are student-run. there's an activities fair every semester. there's a group for anything you can think of and if doesn't exist, you can get it started.
    Greek Life

    i'm not involved with greek life, but those who are involved seem to enjoy it and it is so prevalent on campus.
    Campus Safety

    there is campus security 24/7. what i love most about public safety has to be between the text alerts and the escort service.