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UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSION

PHILADELPHIA AREA

Good luck message on board on LITT Brothers Building in Philadelphia

Villanova is just 12 miles (19 km) west of Center City Philadelphia, the sixth-largest city in the US and the second-largest on the East Coast. And getting there is remarkably easy -- hop on a train (we have three rail stops on campus) or use a ride- or car-sharing service (we've got quite a few options!). 

You'll find plenty to do in Philly -- there are world-class museums, historic sites, great restaurants, performing arts and a wide spectrum of neighborhoods and attractions. Sports fans can grab tickets to see an Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, Union or Flyers game -- and the Villanova Wildcats play many of their games at the Wells Fargo Center, too! 

Villanova is also close to Valley Forge National Historical Park and the King of Prussia Mall, the largest mall on the East Coast. And the bucolic Main Line, featuring shops and restaurants, is just steps away. All are accessible to students via the free Wildcat Shuttle. 

But don't just take our word for it! National Geographic, Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Fodor's and Frommer's all recently have named Philadelphia as a "must visit" destination and Esquire magazine said Philly has "arguably the best food scene in the United States."

For more on visiting the City of Philadelphia, go to visitphilly.com. 


MINUTES FROM PHILLY

Just 12 miles from Villanova's campus, Philadelphia boasts unique entertainment, dining and shopping opportunities, as well as big-time athletic events including Eagles, Phillies, Flyers and Sixers games. The Villanova Wildcats play many of their games at Philly's Wells Fargo Center.

CULTURE & HISTORY

Faculty often enrich their lessons with immersive experiences at the city's many museums and historic sites.

ON THE HISTORIC MAIN LINE

Villanova is located on Pennsylvania's historic Main Line. With countless dining, shopping and entertainment venues, it is a popular destination for Villanova students.

INTERNSHIPS & CAREERS

Internship opportunities abound in the city and surrounding areas. Many Villanovans remain in the area after graduation to begin careers with the region's top companies or to continue their education at premier graduate institutions.

SERVING THE COMMUNITY

Villanovans give back to their community, traveling to various areas of Philadelphia and beyond to perform more than a quarter-million hours of service every year.

Educational Experiences

Philadelphia is an ideal place for students of all disciplines to enhance their studies. Mural tours, site visits and service trips are common activities across all colleges.

OUR GREAT LOCATION

EDUCATION IN THE CITY

"While taking the Sociology of Law course, I had the unique opportunity to observe a criminal case at Philadelphia's Municipal Court. It was exciting to see the court process I learned in lecture come to life." — Caitlin O'Leary, Sociology, Clayton, CA

SERVING OTHERS

"At least once a month, I can volunteer somewhere in the area or help out with a nearby event. Service is something I have always enjoyed doing and especially enjoy doing during my time at Villanova." — Jose Garcia, Accounting, Westfield, NJ

12 MILES AWAY

"Being so close to the city, I've been able to attend many concerts with friends in the surrounding area. Getting to and from campus late at night has been really easy!" — Meredith Jennings, Accounting, Carmel, NY

So Much to Do

"There's a ton of shopping and restaurants nearby! Philly is right down the road with so many fun things to do, and an Amtrak line that can take you all over the east coast." — Kellsey Rogers, Psychology, Media, PA

Map of Northeastern USA

An Aerial Tour of Villanova

An Aerial Tour of Villanova
The Villanova University aerial tour of campus will help you get acquainted with our beautiful surroundings, our breathtaking architecture and the unique environment that make this a place like no other. Explore the nation's only Augustinian Catholic University, located 12 miles from Philadelphia, from a bird's eye view.

Philly Facts

Philadelphia enjoys a four season climate warmer than that of Boston and cooler than that of Washington, DC. Average high and low temperatures: 63.3 F/47.6 F.

Home to the First Continental Congress, which convened in 1774, Philadelphia was the first capital of the US.

The Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia is the first World Heritage City in the United States and is home to 67 National Historic Sites, including Independence Hall.

Philadelphia’s nicknames are “Philly” and the “City of Brotherly Love,” from philos (love) and adelphos (brother).

Philly’s 9,200-acre Fairmount Park is the single largest municipal park in the US.

Center City Skyline at Night
Will D. Cat sitting on the Awakening.

Have questions?

You're not alone! From the admission process and our test-optional policy to visiting campus and upcoming events, we've got you covered.

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