villanova honors program essay examples

Villanova Supplemental Essays 2023-24 – Prompts & Advice

July 28, 2023

Villanova University’s 20.5% acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 is less than half of what it was as recently as 2015. Today, admitted students earned a mid-50% SAT of 1450-1520, and you typically need mostly A’s in AP/honors courses to have a serious shot at acceptance. Writing excellent Common App and Villanova supplemental essays is also an incredibly important piece of the admissions puzzle for wannabe Wildcats.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into Villanova? Visit our blog entitled: How to Get Into Villanova University for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

In this blog, we will look at the Villanova supplemental essays for the 2023-24 admissions cycle along with tips about how to write essays that will win over admissions officers.

Villanova Supplemental Essays #1: Free Choice (2023-24)

For the first Villanova-specific essay, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, experiences, and opinions. Choose  one  of the five topics below and submit a written response in  about  250 words.

Prompt One: St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities? 

Some students may have more direct experience with equity social justice issues than others, but—no matter your background—this is an opportunity to demonstrate that you care about justice and fairness in your local community as well as the global community. If applicable, you can speak about a time when you spoke up for a peer in a moment of need or, alternatively, an instance when you got involved in a larger cause or movement (politics, activism, volunteer work, etc.). If you don’t happen to have a deeply personal story to tell in this realm, you’ll probably want to select a different prompt. While there’s nothing wrong with simply articulating your basic beliefs in the values of inclusion, equity, tolerance, and diversity, it doesn’t necessarily make for the most compelling essay.

Prompt Two: As an Augustinian community, we believe that you should see people for who they are. Please share with us a time when you were misjudged based on your identity or background.

The wide-open nature of this prompt is appealing to many applicants, but the high degree of freedom can easily turn intimidating if you don’t keep this one simple. This is a great space in which to communicate about what you care most about in life whether that happens to be historical political patterns, differential calculus, subatomic particles, Peruvian culture, or metaphysical poetry. The bottom line is that you want to convey your passion for a given concept, belief, or philosophy and reveal a bit about the core of your soul in that process.

Villanova Supplemental Essays (Continued)

Prompt Three In the Villanova community, we believe that we all learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others?

Prompt #3 is trying to assess what type of community member you would be as part of Villanova’s campus. The university greatly values those who have gained wisdom from their extracurricular involvement and leadership while in high school. In fact, the admitted Class of 2026 cohort included 83% who participated in community service, 64% who held paying jobs, and 82% who played sports. This essay presents the chance to communicate the wisdom you have acquired from participation in your present communities; then, you can switch gears to illustrate how the lessons you have learned will impact your future collegiate community.

Prompt Four At Villanova, we often say “each of us strengthens all of us.” In a time of personal challenges, how do you borrow from the strength of others?

Prompt #4 is also getting at the idea of community, but in a very specific context—how you lean on your family, friends, and social & religious organizations during times of struggle. So, why did they add this brand-new prompt? What is the Villanova committee really getting at here? In short, every college freshman is going to encounter some significant challenge, whether it is in the academic, social, or personal realm. Nova wants to see that you a) mature enough to acknowledge your own human frailty and b) are the type of person who can seek out help when needed. If you have a story of this nature from your high school experience, this may be an excellent fit for you.

Essay #2: Why Villanova? (2023-24)

Prompt: Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and how will you become part of our community? 

Please submit a written response of about 150 words.

Villanova wants to know why you desire to pursue your studies at their institution and how you will become part of their campus community. Answering both components of this question in less than 150 words is no easy task. This one is going to require a fair amount of school-specific research. Additionally, you may need a good deal of editing to tighten up your essay to stay under the word count.

Examples of items that quality “Why Villanova?” essays touch upon include:

• 98% of first-year students live on campus creating a cohesive atmosphere.
• Students come from roughly 50 foreign countries so you’ll meet people from all over the country/world.
• 300+  student organizations exist on campus. Pick one or two that are of interest to you.
• Students donate 250,000 hours per year to community service. Talk about how you will get involved .
• Talk in detail about the specifics of your academic program whether it is one of the 47 majors in the College of Liberal Arts & Science or part of the business, engineering, or nursing schools.
• Discuss which undergraduate research opportunities at Villanova you plan to pursue.
• How will you take advantage of the school’s location which is 12 miles outside Philadelphia? Think about community service, internships, etc.
• The Office of Education Abroad offers a multitude of semester, summer, and intensive programs abroad . How would you take advantage of these unique opportunities?

Of course, these are just a fraction of the possible features that could be part of a successful essay. As you enter the prewriting stage, you’ll want to avoid some common pitfalls that we observe applicants fall into when attacking the Villanova “Why Us?” essay. We don’t want to label these as “mistakes” (there is nothing inherently wrong with them); they just don’t add any needle-moving value, which is the only goal here!

Common components of a generic “Why Us” essay

• According to  US News , Villanova University is a top 50 school.
• Showing love for the Villanova basketball team.
• Recycled statements from your other “Why Us?” essays that come across as stale, impersonal, or worst of all–irrelevant/inaccurate.
• Statements about how Villanova “feels like home”, or you’ve “wanted to attend since kindergarten”; show this adoration through specifics instead.

How to write a winning “Why Villanova?” essay

• Address a) why Nova is the perfect fit for you and  b) why you are the perfect fit for Nova.
• Cite specific academic programs, professors, research opportunities, internship/externship programs, study abroad programs, student-run organizations, etc. (like the suggestions cited above).
• How will you become an active, contributing member of the student body?
• Show evidence of how your past/current endeavors will carry over onto Villanova’s campus.
• How will you take advantage of the university’s tremendous resources both inside and outside of the classroom?

How important are the Villanova supplemental essays?

Three factors are viewed as “very important” to the Nova admissions committee. These are: the GPA earned, the rigor of one’s curriculum, and class rank. Seven factors rate as “important”: recommendations, essays, extracurricular activities, talent/ability, character/personal qualities, work experience, and volunteer work. Clearly, the essays are one of the most important application components for any prospective Wildcat.

Villanova Supplemental Essays – Want Personalized Essay Assistance?

If you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Villanova supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote  today.

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Villanova Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Villanova Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Villanova University is one of the top colleges in its home state of Pennsylvania and in the United States. With over 64 majors and 260 student organizations, Villanova University is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.  To stand out among over 23,000 applications , you’ll need strong Villanova supplemental essays. Students who ace the Villanova essay portion are highly likely to join the 6,700-strong Villanova enrollment

Here’s a little secret: While having a solid academic record is important for admissions, well-written Villanova supplemental essays are one way to set your application apart. 

In this guide, we’ll provide key details about the Villanova supplemental essays to illustrate what the Villanova admissions team looks for. Beyond the Villanova supplemental essays, we will also provide you with the Villanova application deadlines and how to choose one. Furthermore, we’ll analyze Villanova supplemental essay prompts to provide insights for building the best Villanova supplemental essays!

Villanova Essay: Quick Facts

Quick facts on villanova essay.

• Villanova University Ranking Overall: #94 College Overall 
• Villanova University Acceptance Rate: 25%– U.S. News ranks Villanova University as a most selective school . 
• Total: Approximately 6,700 students
• Freshmen: Approximately 1,700 students
• 1 (~ 250 words) Villanova free choice essay
• 1 (~ 150 words) “why Villanova” Essay
• Common Application Essay
• Villanova Application: Villanova University is a Common Application member institution. Therefore, students must complete their application using the Common Application . 
• Early Action: November 1st
• Early Decision I: November 1st
• Early Decision II: January 15th
• Regular Decision: January 15th 
• Villanova Supplemental Essays Tip: Besides the Common Application essay, Villanova supplemental essays have a very limited word count. Therefore, make sure your Villanova essays are clear and concise.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website. 

Does Villanova have supplemental essays?

Students applying to Villanova University must complete two supplemental essays.

The first of two required Villanova essay prompts allows applicants to respond to a specific prompt. This essay is the Villanova free choice essay. This Villanova supplemental essay showcases students’ ability to reflect on their experiences and demonstrate their alignment with Villanova’s values.

On the other hand, the second of the two required Villanova essays is the “why Villanova” essay. Predictably, the prompt asks students to respond to one question: Why do you want to call Villanova your new home, and how will you become part of our community? This Villanova essay prompt allows students to explain how their post-secondary passions and goals align with Villanova University . 

Both Villanova supplemental essays allow students to prove to Villanova admissions that they are the perfect fit for the university. In the next sections, we will explore the differences between the two types of Villanova supplemental essays.

Villanova Free Choice Essay 

The Villanova free choice essay offers applicants the opportunity to select from four thought-provoking Villanova essay prompts. The opportunity to choose from a range of Villanova essay prompts may seem liberating. On the other hand, it can also be overwhelming as applicants must choose the prompt that highlights their unique qualities. Therefore, understanding each of the Villanova essay prompts is crucial in determining which aligns best with your experiences, values, and aspirations. 

In this section, we will dive deeper into each one of the Villanova essay prompts. We’ll discuss how to approach each Villanova essay prompt and why it may work for you. This should help you decide which of the Villanova essay prompts is best for you and your application.

Villanova Essay Prompts #1

St. augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” how have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities .

The first of the four Villanova essay prompts is inspired by St. Augustine’s belief in caring about others. For this Villanova essay, students should reflect on their efforts to advocate for community equity and justice. This Villanova essay prompt invites applicants to share specific instances where they have taken action to promote fairness and inclusivity.

Whether through grassroots initiatives, volunteering with local organizations, or standing up for marginalized groups, applicants should discuss what they’ve done. These don’t necessarily have to be in an official capacity, either; your work might be outside an organization. Delve into the impact of your advocacy efforts large and small, and the lessons you have learned from these experiences. Convey a genuine commitment to the well-being of others and demonstrate a deep understanding of the importance of collective welfare.

Applicants should avoid making generalized or vague statements about advocating for equity and justice. Be sure to provide concrete examples. While giving examples to answer this Villanova essay prompt, avoid exaggerating your involvement or solely focusing on personal achievements. Instead, be genuine and honest about your experiences and how they’ve sent ripples through your life.

Remember: The topic of equity and justice is complex, so don’t downplay challenges that may arise when promoting them in your community.

Villanova Supplemental Essay #2

As an augustinian community, we believe that you should see people for who they are. please share with us a time when you were misjudged based on your identity or background..

The second of the four Villanova essay prompts requires students to recount a personal encounter where they were misjudged. Recall the Villanova community’s commitment to recognizing individuals for who they truly are. Applicants should use this essay to share their resilience and growth in the face of adversity.

It is key to discuss the emotional impact of such experiences and how they have shaped one’s perspective and actions. Think about how being misjudged made you feel, how you reacted, and how you go forward in light of it. Additionally, highlighting how it fostered empathy and a stronger determination to advocate for understanding and acceptance can further strengthen the essay.

Avoid exaggerating or fabricating instances where you were misjudged to gain sympathy or appear as a victim. Be cautious not to blame others or use harsh language when discussing the misjudgment you faced. Instead, focus on the personal growth and resilience you gained from these experiences. Lastly, ensure you do not generalize or stereotype others in your response. The goal is to tap into the need to understand and show empathy for others who may be different.

Villanova Essay Prompts #3

In the villanova community, we learn from one another. what is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others.

The third of the four Villanova essay prompts centers on the Villanova community’s value of learning from one another. In this essay, applicants should share a significant life lesson they have learned and would like to impart to others. The key here is to select a lesson that holds personal meaning and has shaped your character positively. Ideally, what you want to share is not simply a lesson, but part of who you are today.

Whether it be a lesson in perseverance, humility, or compassion, students should describe the experience that taught them. How has it influenced your outlook on life and interactions with others? You can showcase your willingness to contribute insights and experiences to the diverse Villanova community by offering an insightful reflection.

Avoid selecting a life lesson solely based on what you think admissions officers want to hear or using clichéd phrases. Instead, choose a meaningful lesson that has genuinely impacted your life and that you can write about with confidence. Be specific in describing how it has shaped your character and decisions.

Free Choice Villanova Essay Prompts #4

At villanova, we often say, “each of us strengthens all of us.” in a time of personal challenges, how do you borrow from the strength of others .

The last of the four Villanova essay prompts requires applicants to discuss how they draw strength from others during personal challenges. At Villanova, the principle of mutual support is celebrated; in times of trouble, community members support each other. Think about times you needed to lean on others; how did you ask for, receive, and respond to support?

In response to this prompt, students should narrate a difficult period or some related struggles. Elaborate on the sources of strength and inspiration you sought from those around you. Whether from family, friends, mentors, or even strangers, applicants should explore the significance of communal support in overcoming obstacles. This essay offers a platform to display vulnerability, resilience, and the capacity to appreciate the power of unity in times of difficulty.

Avoid fabricating stories of personal challenges or borrowing strength from others when it did not occur. Be honest about the sources of support you received, avoiding exaggeration or portraying yourself as entirely dependent on others. Focus on the positive outcomes and personal growth that emerged from seeking help rather than dwelling on the difficulties.

Why Villanova Essay

As shared in the previous section, the first Villanova supplemental essay allows students to choose from one of four prompts. In comparison, the second supplemental essay is the infamous “why school” essay.

Why do you want to call Villanova your new home, and how will you become part of our community?

Although the concept of a “why school” essay appears simple, it could be one of the most challenging essays to write. After all, you want your “why Villanova” essay to stand out among over 20,000 candidates. 

The “why Villanova” essay is a powerful opportunity to amplify your application by illustrating how Villanova aligns with your aspirations. Research is crucial—connect your preferred major , passions, experiences, and long-term goals with the opportunities at Villanova University. You should highlight aspects of Villanova that will support you in achieving your goals. Obviously, you should avoid reusing essays submitted to other colleges, and ensure this essay is explicitly tailored to Villanova. 

What can you offer?

In addition to focusing on your desire to attend the university, a successful “why Villanova” essay goes beyond personal gains. The essay must showcase how your acceptance to the university is mutually beneficial. Therefore, explain how you can enrich the campus community and the unique qualities and perspectives you will contribute. This essay is your chance to demonstrate that you are the perfect fit for Villanova University. Show that your presence will enhance the academic environment and foster a vibrant community.

Ultimately the “why Villanova” essay holds great significance in the application process. It demands thoughtful reflection and a representation of your passion for the university’s values and opportunities. You must communicate your potential to impact the campus community positively. Use this essay to convey why Villanova University is the ideal place for your academic and personal growth.

Check out Villanova Admissions’ YouTube channel for testimonials from real Villanova students on why they chose Villanova University!

How to write Villanova supplemental essays

A strong Villanova supplemental essay can enhance your application and catch the admissions committee’s attention. You can showcase your personality, experiences, and potential contributions to the Villanova community—all  incredibly important for a first-year student . Accordingly, your Villanova supplemental essays should be crafted with care and close attention. Consider the following strategies and tips to make your supplemental essay truly stand out.

Research Villanova University’s values, mission, and programs. Gain a complete understanding of Villanova majors, academic offerings, campus culture, and initiatives. Incorporate this knowledge into your essays to demonstrate your genuine interest and fit with Villanova. 

Authenticity and Personal Voice

Craft your essay to reflect your genuine self. Share personal anecdotes and experiences that have shaped your values, passions, and goals. Avoid generic responses and instead focus on unique aspects of your journey.

Engaging Writing Style

Narrative style is pretty standard for college essays these days. Make your Villanova essay engaging and captivating with strong storytelling. Hook the reader by using powerful imagery and thoughtful language. Maintain a strong narrative flow that keeps the reader hooked from the introduction to the conclusion. Consider incorporating creative elements such as metaphors or anecdotes that leave a lasting impression.

Proofread and Refine

Take the time to proofread and edit your essay carefully. Ensure proper grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Check for clarity and coherence in your ideas. Due to the limited word count, you must choose every word wisely and remove redundancy.  

By incorporating these strategies in your Villanova supplemental essays, you can show off your unique qualities and potential contributions to the Villanova community. Ultimately, the Villanova supplemental essays are your chance to shine and convince the admissions committee that you’re an ideal fit . Keep these objectives in mind throughout your writing process.

How important are the supplemental essays for Villanova?

In short, very. Admissions officers eagerly anticipate reading Villanova supplemental essays because they serve as a window into applicants’ unique perspectives, passions, and character. The admissions committee understands that the Villanova supplemental essays offer an invaluable opportunity for students to dig deep. Writers must showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and ability to articulate their thoughts effectively. Therefore, Villanova admissions dedicates significant time and consideration to thoroughly evaluating each Villanova supplemental essay. Make sure your essays are error-free and impactful before submitting them!

Now more than ever, Villanova supplemental essays are important to admissions decisions. Villanova admissions prides itself on taking a holistic approach when reviewing applications. As such, for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle, Villanova University is test-optional . Not requiring applicants to submit their test scores places greater emphasis on Villanova supplemental essays, which makes them incredibly important. Think carefully about going test-optional; if you do, your essays will be weighed more heavily.

Other key Villanova application requirements

By now, we have reviewed the requirements for Villanova supplemental essays. However, there are other application requirements you should know to craft an application that maximizes your admissions chances. 

The first thing students should know are Villanova’s three application types and their deadlines. 

Early Action

Students who want to apply early in their senior year but are unsure which institution they would like to attend might consider Early action. This application strategy is non-binding, so students are not required to attend the university if accepted. The early action deadline for Villanova University is November 1. If your application is good to go by November 1, consider applying early action for higher admissions chances.

Early Decision

Early decision is best for students whose first choice is Villanova University and who know they want to enroll immediately. Be mindful that the early decision application is binding. For Villanova University, there are two early decision rounds: the first deadline is November 1, and the second is January 15. Students requiring additional time to write Villanova supplemental essays—or improve their GPA or test scores—may opt for the second deadline.

Regular Decision

Regular decision is non-binding and is perfect for students wanting to apply but unsure which university to attend. Similar to the second early decision deadline, the regular application deadline is January 15. This provides students additional time to ensure their academic scores and Villanova supplemental essays are as strong as possible.

Another thing potential applicants need to know regarding application requirements is the teacher recommendation requirement. Villanova University requires one recommendation from a secondary school teacher who taught you during high school. Additionally, you may submit an optional letter from a school counselor; any additional letters are not considered, so choose wisely. The teacher must be able to speak about you in detail and your contributions to the classroom environment. In addition to Villanova supplemental essays, the teacher recommendation is another way Villanova can see you’re a great fit for the community.

More Essay Resources from CollegeAdvisor

While writing Villanova supplemental essays can be daunting, the good news is that CollegeAdvisor has many resources to assist you. Here are some of my favorites. 

1. How to Write Better Essays

How to Write Better Essays

This article offers 9 tips for writing better essays for students wondering how to improve their writing. The article breaks down the different types of application essays, including the “why school” essay,  cultural essay, and personal challenge essay. In addition to giving details about each type of essay, the article’s nine tips cover the entire essay writing process. All are helpful tips for any student looking to complete Villanova supplemental essays.

2. Admissions Officer Advice: Making Your Essays Shine

For students who have started their Villanova supplemental essays but are looking to make them shine, this webinar is for you. In this webinar, Admissions Officer Aya Waller-Bey shares advice and insider tips on refining college essays. Her insight will go a long way in helping you create an impactful college application essay to enhance your application.

3. College Essay Mistakes When Writing About Yourself

College Essay Mistakes When Writing About Yourself

When writing your Villanova supplemental essays, it’s important to review resources that tell you what to do. It’s also important to know what not to do. With that in mind, this resource is perfect! In this webinar, a senior advisor shares common mistakes students make in their application essays and how to avoid them. If you’re wondering whether your essays are hitting the mark, check out this free resource.

Of course, these are only three of the dozens of free articles and webinars we have on CollegeAdvisor.com. Whether you’re writing Villanova supplemental essays, researching Ivy League schools , or weighing financing options, we can help.

Villanova Supplemental Essays – Takeaways

This article has provided insights into Villanova supplemental essays and their significance in the admissions process. By examining the essay prompts, requirements, and writing tips, we have identified key steps for crafting compelling and authentic responses.

Here are eight takeaways: 

1. villanova university is highly competitive.

Villanova enrollment for fall 2023 is 6,700 students, with approximately 1,700 freshmen. In total, the university received over 23,000 applications. Due to these staggering statistics, well-written Villanova supplemental essays are crucial in setting applicants apart.

2. Villanova University has two Villanova supplemental essays

In addition to submitting the Common Application essay, Villanova requires two essays. These are known as the Villanova free choice essay and the “why Villanova” essay.

3. Selecting the best Villanova essay prompt requires self-reflection on your experiences and writing ability

The first of the two Villanova supplemental essays allows applicants to respond to one of four Villanova essay prompts. When writing, a focus on strong storytelling to convey personal experiences and values is a must.

4. Focus on Villanova’s values

The “why Villanova” essay requires thorough research so students can make connections between Villanova’s values and their passions and long-term goals. The “why Villanova” essay must identify how the applicant’s acceptance would be mutually beneficial for the student and campus. 

5. Do your research

Before writing your Villanova supplemental essays, ensure you have thoroughly researched Villanova University’s values, programs, and community. This research will provide a solid foundation for your essays and show the Villanova admissions committee you’re enthusiastic about attending.

6. Be yourself

Applicants should avoid generalizations, clichés, or exaggerations in their Villanova supplemental essays. Aim for honest and sincere responses that reflect your true experiences and values.

7. Leave time for drafts and revisions

After completing your Villanova supplemental essays, make sure you proofread to ensure clarity, coherence, and adherence to the word count. Ideally, you shouldn’t submit your first draft of Villanova supplemental essays; edit them—preferably with outside help—before sending them.

8. Mind the deadlines

Finally, the Villanova supplemental essays are important when applying to Villanova, but the application deadlines are even more important. The one way to guarantee denial is by submitting your application after the application deadline. Therefore, pay attention to the Villanova application deadlines and application types to ensure admissions officers review your application through the best lens.

With these key takeaways, you can craft compelling Villanova supplemental essays that showcase your unique qualities and fit with the college’s community. All told, you’ll certainly increase your chances of standing out. Hopefully, after reading this article, you will feel compelled to apply. After you apply, be sure to check your applicant status page to receive updates regarding your application. Good luck!

This article was written by senior advisor, Ashley Hollins . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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College essay resources

How to ace villanova’s supplemental essays | guide & examples, 2022-2023, school supplements.

Brad Schiller

“This should be fun!” says Villanova in the “pro-tips” section of their first-year supplements .

Okay … but their two mandatory questions are hard:

• A “free choice” essay in which you pick 1 of 5 options (~250 words) 
• Why Villanova (~150 words).

Thankfully, we have guidance for these two essays that we think will help show you exactly what Villanova is looking for in your answers. 

While our advice won’t necessarily make writing these essays “fun,” it should take much of the sting out. More importantly, it should help you write two supplements that are effective at boosting your chances of admission. 

For easy instructions, meet us below the table of contents. (For help with all aspects of your college application, head to our College Essay Help Center .)

Villanova is looking for contribution, intellectual curiosity, and good community members 

Villanova’s admissions page has a lot of personality. 

The school comes off as proud of its heritage — an Augustinian Catholic school, which is unique in the US — and also as intellectually curious (quoting St. Augustine abundantly) and kind (St. Augustine seems to have valued kindness, making him well worth quoting). 

These insights are a key to what Villanova is looking for. 

First, like all colleges, they are looking for the 5 Traits :

• Drive (grit)
• Contribution
• Intellectual Curiosity
• Diversity of experience

But in particular, Villanova’s questions point to some of these traits in partiular.

They’re obviously excited about contribution (kindness, community, giving back to others) and intellectual curiosity . Further, their questions mention “community” three times, so it seems clear that what you’ll contribute to the community and how you’ll value it matters to them — this implies both contribution and diversity of experience .

Essays play a bigger role in admissions than most students think: a strong essay can increase chances of admission by 10x . A strong essay is one that demonstrates the student’s character traits by discussing their experiences that show those traits. 

Put succinctly, a strong Villanova answer will show that you will succeed at Villanova and beyond . 

A strong essay is not one that “ tells your story .” Yes, we are contradicting Villanova’s top “pro-tip,” in which they say, “Your writing supplements are a window into your truest self. Share what makes you unique and express yourself authentically .”

Well, “authentically,” we agree with. But “what makes you unique” is pretty broad. Villanova is not looking for broad. Again, they’re looking specifically for evidence that you’ll succeed on their campus. So make sure that everything you write is geared toward showing off 1 or more of the 5 Traits.

Q1 — Before you choose a prompt, decide what experiences you want to showcase  

Only when you have a good idea of which of your high school experiences show off the 5 Traits should you consider the prompts — you want to slot your best stuff into them (not have them distract you from what best shows your potential). 

So invest some time in brainstorming. Write down a long list of your: 

• Academic interests
• Extracurricular activities and interests
• Self-learning or independent projects you’ve undertaken
• Work experiences or substantial domestic obligations
• Any other skills you’ve developed or meaningful experiences you’ve had

If you create a free Prompt account , you can develop these ideas through our brainstorming modules. 

Once you’ve taken that time, you can better navigate what experiences show off your college potential. The very best should go into your personal statement . (Re-write your personal statement if that’s not so!)

But the “next-best” after that should find their way into your Villanova Free Choice answer. 

Q1 — Show off your potential to succeed [Examples included for all 5 prompts]

Here is the “free choice” intro:

Writing Supplement #1: Villanova Free Choice (2022-23)

For the first Villanova-specific essay, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, experiences, and opinions. Choose one of the five topics below and submit a written response in about 250 words .

Let’s take each choice one by one — remember, you should start by deciding on your best experiences (that best show potential to succeed) and then choose the prompt that allows you to describe those experiences. 

Prompt One :

St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities? 

Guidance for Prompt One :

• This prompt is all about contribution. 
• The actual lead-in question is a great set-up for writing an essay that focuses on what you did and the actions you took that showed contribution. 
• If your essay shows someone who takes action to make their community better, you’ve done your job. 

Example for Prompt One :

I love my volunteering job with Valerie — she’s an 89-year-old woman in my neighborhood. I come by once a week to sort her mail, pay her bills and take on any other accounting tasks. In turn, she showers me with anxious praise, copious cups of tea, and stories of her youth in the 1940s and 50s. 

I’m proud that my family does a lot of volunteering — especially around the holidays. But I never liked packing food and asked around for something that could use my math skills and would feel more meaningful. An organization that connects elders to volunteers who’ll help with paperwork was perfect for me. 

This work has led in unexpected directions. It led me to start an accounting club at my High School called “Afford your prom outfit.” That’s because people love hearing about Valerie and my work for her. As I shared stories with my friends, many joked they wanted me to provide them with the same service! (Or was it a joke?) As those conversations evolved, I founded the club with a partner and our aim is to teach high schoolers basic financial literacy while working toward the concrete goal of saving up for a great prom outfit. 

• Word count : 204
• This essay shows off initiative (getting the volunteer job in the first place; founding the accounting club, all of which also take drive ); contribution (a once-a-week volunteer position; valuing volunteering generally; helping fellow students); and even diversity of experiences — the student has a unique relationship to an elder. It’s even got intellectual curiosity in that the student wanted to hone and develop accounting skills as well as teaching skills (teaching accounting).
• Notice that the essay isn’t “beautifully written.” No intro, no conclusion. It just packs in a ton of great information about the student’s qualities. The reader is left itching to get them on their campus.

Prompt Two :

What is the truest thing that you know? 

Guidance for Prompt Two :

• This could be a tricky prompt — you need to remember that Villanova readers don’t care about the truest thing you know ; they care about how you figured it out (and what that shows about how you approach intellectual topics). 
• That is, this prompt is looking for intellectual curiosity .
• Don’t make the mistake of talking just about something you know to be true (maybe something religious). Rather, take the admissions reader through your journey at arriving there. Show them how open-minded, curious, analytical, and deep you can be. 
• Focus on your actions to avoid the potential pitfall in this prompt.

Example for prompt Two :

The truest thing I know is that empathy is always the best choice. It’s funny that as someone who has been church-going my whole life this lesson sank in because of babysitting. 

I started off as the worst babysitter. I did not enjoy kids. I spent my time yelling at them. As a tween, though, it was still my best way of making money. I asked for help from my teacher who recommended How to talk so kids will listen . This book changed my attitude. Not just toward kids; eventually, toward everyone. 

The book preaches showing kids respect and giving them options rather than commands. And it works . The first time I saw this was on a five-year-old who flung their spaghetti off the table. Somehow (how?) I restrained my impulse to yell. Instead, I followed my inner book voice and said, “That made a mess. I expect you to help me clean it up.” And the kid did! Our relationship improved and he’s never done anything (quite) so awful again. 

Today, I use these lessons every day. Recently, a classmate at school spread a rumor about me online. It was a really tough time. Somehow (how?) I worked up the ability to approach them. I said, “I expect you to be able to talk with me if you’re going to talk about me.” They agreed. We ended up having a 3-hour conversation in which misunderstandings came out as well as some personal issues. At the end, they stopped spreading the rumor. (I wish they’d apologized, but this was good enough.)

I learned that seeing the world through an empathetic lens is empowering — for you as well as for the people you treat with respect. This is what they say in church every week, but it took these experiences for me to understand what it meant.

Notes on Prompt Two : 

• Word count: 306
• The essay shows a student who takes an active role in solving problems — asking for help to become a better babysitter, reading a book to become a better babysitter, working with a person who is bullying them online. 
• The essay shows initiative , drive , and intellectual curiosity , as well as contribution (seeing the world with empathy). 

Prompt Three :

One of the themes in St. Augustine's book, Confessions, is the idea of redemption. Tell us your story of being given a second chance.

Guidance for Prompt Three :

• The potential pitfall with this prompt is to focus too much on the person who gave you the second chance. Instead, make sure to focus on your actions in that second chance — what did you do to make the most of it?
• Relatedly, be sure to keep the set-up short. That is, talking about your initial mistakes. Make sure the bulk of the essay is on the new, better you and the actions that new you takes. 

Example Prompt Three

School has always been easy for me. I never had to try too hard to do well, and so, for most of my life, I didn’t. I enjoyed learning, but I never pushed myself. 

Things came to a head in ninth grade. I was still doing well in all my classes — with one exception: English. Writing essays is hard! For the first time, something didn’t come easily to me. Instead of realizing this meant I had to put in effort, I drifted on my old habits. My Fall semester I got a C. Even though I knew I’d been doing poorly, that low grade was a shock. 

I asked my mom what I should do. She said, “You can control how hard you work. Some things will be easy and some will be hard. But only your effort is under your control.” These words really hit me. Today, they summarize how I approach my studies. 

I started with my English class. It hurt my pride, but I got extra help from my teacher for each of the next few essays she assigned. Gradually, I started to “get” what they were all about. 

That success fed others. I started working harder in math class — and realizing I enjoyed math a lot more when I put more into it. I even checked out a bunch of books at the library on how to be a better student. It was becoming my ambition to be a really talented, all-out “nerd.” Why not embrace something that I’ve always enjoyed? I love school and I’m not afraid to admit it anymore.

Notes on example three :

• Word count: 266
• This essay shows a student who is extremely intellectually curious and shows the drive necessary to achieve the academic results they boast. 
• The essay has a lot of nice little details that contribute to the student seeming so dynamic and interesting — turning to their mom for advice; checking out books on the interest they’re pursuing from the library; being honest about a moment they felt shame; showing humility ... 
• All of these little details show that you can make a compelling essay by focusing on small, but meaningful actions that you’ve taken. 

Prompt Four :

In the Villanova community, we believe that we all learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others?

Example Prompt Four

The most helpful lesson I’ve learned so far is that the only thing under our direct control is how hard we work.

For most of my childhood, school was easy. I never had to work hard to do well. That changed freshman year when we started writing essays in English class. They did NOT come easily to me. I got my first C. 

I was distraught and asked my mom for advice. I was hoping she’d help me with my essays! Instead, she told me that, in life, “some things will be easy and some will be hard. But only your effort is under your control.” It hit me hard. Today, those words summarize how I approach my studies. 

That success fed others. I started working harder in math class — and realizing I enjoyed math a lot more when I put more into it. I even checked out a bunch of books at the library on how to be a better student. It was becoming my ambition to be a really talented, all-out “nerd.” Why not embrace something that I’ve always enjoyed?  I love school and I’m not afraid to admit it anymore.

Notes for Prompt Four

• Word count: 222
• Obviously, this is pretty much the same example answer we gave for Prompt 3. Generally speaking, Prompt 4 will be a better vehicle for the story than Prompt 3 — that’s because Prompt 3 invites you to spend time on a mistake and maybe on the person who helped you overcome the mistake. 
• Both essays really should be about you , the actions you took, and the lessons that you believe in. Therefore, unless you truly had a “redemption” experience (to quote from Prompt 3), Prompt 4 is likely the best vehicle for an answer that makes you look good to Villanova. 

‍ Prompt Five :

Augustine's “Miracles are not contrary to nature but only contrary to what we know about nature.” Tell us about a societal issue that you believe the wonder of technology is well-poised to help solve.

Notes on Prompt Five :

• This prompt is interested in seeing your intellectual curiosity — can you get excited about things and think deeply and analytically?
• The potential pitfall here is getting too in the weeds about the “societal issue” that you’re discussing. Villanova doesn’t want to learn about, say, food insecurity (at least not from a high school student - no offense). Rather, they want to see how you approach food insecurity — how you think about it, the actions you’ve taken to understand it better, the actions you’ve taken to understand the technology that could solve it better, etc. … 

Example Prompt Five

Community is essential for a happy and fulfilled human life. We are social animals and can’t escape that, as shown in books like David Brooks’ The Social Animal or A Hunter-Gatherer’s Guide to the 21st Century .

Yet our society isolates elders in the years when they arguably need community most. Nearly one third of American elders live alone, according to the latest Census. 

As a volunteer who meets weekly with a local elder Valerie — ostensibly to help her with accounting and paperwork, but more importantly to check in on her and provide companionship — I’m concerned we don’t prioritize this issue enough. 

While I don’t think anything can replace human contact, I have been struck by the power of online games to help Valerie and her friends stay connected, even when apart. Valerie plays a special online bridge game with friends multiple times a day. They can talk to each other as they are playing. Valerie taught me some rudiments, and she’s even encouraged me to take a turn for her. 

Most importantly, the nonprofit I volunteer with can track these games, using them to unearth potential red flags — such as an elder suddenly losing interest in the game. This happened to Valerie once, and they asked me to call her urgently to check on her. (It turned out she just had a cold and wasn’t up to the game.)

Overall, I think it’s important that we use technology as aggressively as possible in service of our actual nature as humans: social creatures who need companionship to feel whole. I’m excited to keep seeking out opportunities like this to keep people connected using the best tools we have today.

• Word count: 291
• This example essay isn’t as strong as our example essay that treated the same subject for Prompt 1. It falls a bit into the pitfall of talking too much about the problem and not enough about the actions the student took (which example 1 does better).
• Overall, this is something to really watch for in this essay – does it shine a light on you, or on some other entity (ie: in this answer, the nonprofit looks great and the student doesn’t quite share that limelight).
• As you work on your own essays, you can try writing a few different answers and see if different prompts bring out better answers, even using the same material. 
• Despite the issues, this answer shows a student who is intellectually curious , obviously working hard to develop an idea they discovered in their volunteering. It also shows a deep level of contribution .

Q2 — Show Villanova that they are a good match for your college-related interests

The reason that schools ask “Why Us” is two-fold. They want to see:

• that you’ll actually choose their school if you get in — (read Demonstrated Interest for more on how powerful this can be) and 
• that you’ll be a good fit at the school — (read “Why Us” essays to get a full sense of how admissions readers assess “fit”). 

What this boils down to is that you need your Why Villanova answer to cover:

• Your college-related interests and
• How they’ll be a great match for Villanova.

Here is the prompt:

Writing Supplement #2: Why Villanova? (2022-23)

Prompt: Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and how will you become part of our community? 

Please submit a written response of about 150 words.

As you can see, Villanova keeps up its emphasis on “community” in this question, asking “how will you become part of our community.” This indicates that in addition to academic and extracurricular interests, you should take a moment to talk about campus culture and how you’ll contribute to it.

At ~150 words, this essay is short , so be as succinct as possible. They’re not looking for insane amounts of detail — just a sense of what you’ll study and/or which clubs you’ll join + a clear sense that you’ll be a strong community member. 

Begin by figuring out your 1-2 top academic interests and maybe 1-2 extracurricular interests. Then, research Villanova’s academic and student life web pages for opportunities there that you’ll take advantage.

If you visited the campus , you can work those experiences into your essay, too. Colleges love knowing that you went to the trouble of visiting.  

After that, writing up the essay is just a question of describing your interests and naming a few Villanova resources that match well with them. One example is below. 

Q2 — Example

I fell in love with Beckett while playing Estragon in Waiting for Godot as a junior, inspiring me to write about the differences between Beckett’s English-language and French-language plays for my senior special project.

Given this background, Villanova’s English offerings blew me away. The department’s own podcast actually helped my Beckett research (I quoted its 2020 episode on translation). I love the idea of joining the “ unique theory seminar ” one day, taking part in live controversies about literary interpretation. Given Beckett’s Irish origins, I’m also excited about the possibility of going to Ireland as part of the Irish Summer Studio summer program. 

Finally, as someone who comes from a small high school, I love the idea of starting college life as part of Communitas — digging into a shared curriculum with friends even as we begin our adult lives together. I have a friend at Villanova who was part of the program, and their experience made me eager to join. 

• Word count: 158
• No need to provide links in your answer! We’re providing the links so you can see what we’re referring to. 
• Academically, this answer uses just a little bit of research on Villanova’s website to make a lot of strong connections between the student’s interests and the school. The reader is left thinking the student will be a great fit (which is the goal).
• Community-wise, mentioning you had a great visit is gold. In this case, the student has visited, so they talk about being inspired by a Villanova student — that’s also a good move. 
• The student talks about liking something unique about Villanova’s campus experience (the Communitas program), which, again, leaves the reader with the impression this student will do great.
• One thing this answer doesn’t do is show what the student will do to be a good community member . Space is limited, so you don’t need to hit all these marks, but if you can spend 1-2 sentences on how you’ve been a good contributor in the past, the admissions team should like it. 

Helpful info on all the “other” stuff you’ll consider as you apply to Villanova (and other schools)

A few helpful resources for the non-supplement parts of your application:

• Common App : Villanova requires the Common App. Read our guide to acing everything to do with writing your Common App application . 
• Whether to submit test scores: Villanova is test-optional for Fall 2023. Our test-optional article will guide you through the tricky waters of making this decision. 
• Early options: Villanova offers everything — Early Decision I and II, Early Action, and Regular Decision . Read our Early Admissions article so you know how to approach this decision. 

BTW, here’s our guidance for approaching any college supplement + here’s where you can find our guides for almost every college’s supplements . 

Feeling inspired? A great place to start is at our College Essay Help Center . 

More articles on Prompt.com’s admissions-boosting methods:

• Work with a college essay coach
• Strong essays increase your chance of admission by up to 10x
• Don’t let influencers influence your college essays
• Should I apply test-optional?
• Early admissions: Everything you need to know
• College Essay Help Center

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, villanova essay advice.

Hi! I'm interested in applying to Villanova and could use some guidance. What are some tips or best practices for writing a compelling Villanova essay? Any examples or suggestions to get started?

Hello! Writing a compelling Villanova essay involves understanding the university's values and effectively showcasing your personality and experiences. Here are some tips and best practices to help you as you write your essay:

1. Research Villanova's values and mission: Read through their website, watch videos, and learn about the school's culture. Villanova emphasizes Catholic values like community, service, and leadership, so reflecting on experiences that demonstrate these qualities can work in your favor.

2. Be authentic and genuine: Write about a personal experience or passion that genuinely shows who you are. Think about the unique aspects of your personality, background, or interests that will make you stand out among other applicants.

3. Avoid clichés: Write an essay that goes beyond typical tropes such as sports victories, academic achievements, or a generic account of volunteering. Instead, focus on a specific event, conversation, or moment that captures a meaningful aspect of your life.

4. Be detailed and descriptive: Use vivid language and include specific details to make your essay engaging and easier to visualize.

5. Show, don't tell: Use anecdotes, stories, and examples to illustrate your points. Instead of simply saying you're committed to service, discuss a particular volunteer project and its impact on you and the community.

For example, suppose you initiated a recycling program at your school. In that case, you could talk about how you collaborated with others, the challenges you faced and overcame, and how this experience demonstrated your leadership, commitment to environmentalism, and sense of community responsibility.

Lastly, make sure to proofread your essay and seek feedback from peers, teachers, or counselors to ensure the final product is polished and impactful. Good luck!

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Honors College Essay: Tips, Prompt Examples and How to Write

Writing honors college essay

An honors college essay is an academic paper that students typically complete to establish entrance into an honors college, program, or division. An honors paper seeks to test students’ research skills and focus their analytical abilities on a subject of academic interest. 

Due to the specialized focus of the paper, students benefit from serious attention to the college essay topics, which are vital in developing the essay.

An Honors College essay is unique in terms of its requirements, structure, and background. The purpose of this article is to provide advice on writing and structuring an Honors College essay.

People Also Read: SAT Essay Cancellation: Before College Registration Process

Which Universities do Ask for Honors College Essay

1. uci (university of california irvine) .

The UCI has two programs, the Academic Honors Program and the Honors Program. Both are popular with many members. They are not mutually exclusive, but they have different requirements and different goals.

The Academic Honors Program is for students who want to get recognized by their professors for academic achievement. It does not require an essay but several letters of recommendation from faculty members.

You should not apply to either program if you are only interested in one or the other because there is no guarantee that either program will accept your application or that you will gain acceptance into either program.

2. VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University)

The applicants must complete the 500-word Essay on Honors. The essay should address the following topics:

• Your interests and goals, especially as they pertain to your intended major(s) and career path(s). How do you feel about being a lifelong learner?
• Your ideas about leadership, including h
• How you would define leadership, what your leadership style is, how you would use your abilities as a leader to positively impact your community in and out of college, and how you would lead if given the opportunity.

3. NJT (New Jersey Institute of Technology)

NJT requires you to write an essay and submit it along with your application.

These honors college essays usually focus on your intellectual interests and experiences, using specific examples to illustrate your points. It’s essential to select an area you are interested in and know about. 

You should also pick something that you can write about easily; it will be evident if you are writing a research paper or other academic work instead of an honors college essay, so don’t try to fake it!

4. Purdue University

Purdue University’s Honors College focuses on scholarship, leadership, research, and engagement by integrating residential and co-curricular learning opportunities with academic classroom experiences.

Your college application essay needs to breathe life into your application. It should capture your genuine personality, explaining who you are beyond a series of grades, test scores, and after-school activities. 

Take a minute and think about the college or university admission officers who will be reading your essay.

5. Stony Brook University

The Stony Brook Honors College provides an exceptional opportunity for students who want to pursue a challenging course of study in the company of talented peers. Your essay should be no longer than three double-spaced pages and should address certain questions.

It is an opportunity to explain an event that took place on any day in history; what would that event be? Discuss why you chose this particular day. Also, as this question, what do you hope to learn/experience by being present?

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How to Write a Good Honors College Essay

Honors college essays follow a formal style with a clear structure. To get your honors college essay, follow these tips:

• Think about the prompt and what you want to say.
• Brainstorm.
• Organize your thoughts into a logical outline.
• Write your introduction.
• End with a conclusion that sums up the main points of your argument and connects those points back to the prompt.

Technically, the honors college essay can be a five-paragraph essay, but it should be more than that.

It should be closer to a 10-paragraph essay, with an introduction and conclusion paragraph that are each about four or five sentences long.

The introduction and conclusion paragraphs should be about the same size. The middle of the essay should be about three paragraphs long, and each of them should be about four to five sentences long.

1. Introduction 

The introduction should have a hook which is a catchy sentence or two that gets the reader interested in reading your essay. Furthermore, it should have an explanation of why you want to go to Honors College: This is usually possible in one sentence. 

Also, there should be a thesis statement. This is usually evident in one sentence at the end of the paragraph. The thesis statement tells the reader what you plan to write about in your essay. For example: “I want to attend honors college because of their strong pre-med program.”

Write the body of your paper using transition words to connect your ideas and explain the connections between them.

The middle paragraphs should include an explanation of why you have chosen your career path and why you are interested. 

3. Conclusion

End with a strong conclusion that ties together everything you discussed within your paper, providing important takeaways for readers as well as leaving them feeling satisfied with what they just read.

Takeaways 

• You are writing an essay, not a text message. In other words, please use complete sentences and correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. If proper English is not your strong suit, enlist someone proficient at it to help edit your essay.
• Be specific about what you want to study and why. Do not just say that you want an education; tell the reader what kind of education you want and why. This is particularly important if you plan to study something that you did not find at your high school. 
• The readers do not expect you to know everything about the field you plan to enter. They expect that you give serious consideration to it and explain why you want to pursue it beyond the fact that “it sounds interesting” or “it pays well.”
• Proofread your essays before sending them in. Errors will distract from whatever else is in those essays and may give us a negative impression of your abilities.

Things to Remember about Honor Essays

The honors essay is one of your best chances to stand out in a meaningful way from other applicants, so be sure to invest time in crafting a great response.

The admission office is looking for the following:

• The office wants to know that you understand what makes the honors program special. We have a diverse group of students and faculty who are passionate about learning and interacting across disciplines.
• What do you think this will mean for you? How will you take advantage of being in an environment that values interdisciplinary thinking?
• Your accomplishments. Let the audience know your talents. Have you excelled academically? What leadership roles have you taken on, or awards have you won? They want to discover what drives your passion for learning, leadership, and service.
• Your plans for the future. The honors program will prepare you for success beyond your skills, whether that’s graduate school or medical school, or a career in a completely different field. 

People Also Read: NJHS Essay: How to Write a Winning Piece from Ideas to end

Examples of Honors College Essay Topics

• Considering your lifetime goals, explain how your present and future academic activities will assist you in achieving your goals. 
• Settle for an issue of importance to you, whether it is political, personal, local, or international related. Then, craft an essay to explain the significance of that issue to yourself, your community, and your generation. 

When not handling complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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Villanova Honors / Scholarships Discussion

Hey all, Just thought it would be a good idea to post a thread for people that were invited to the Honors College / St. Augustine Scholarship to post their stats here. I received an update on my portal today that I was not offered invitation to the Honors College with a 1540 SAT and 4.3 WGPA. Curious to see who was let in, and what my chances are for the St. Augustine scholarship from here.

where do you see this update?

@marcerino ^

@marcerino , thanks for starting this thread. After I read it I checked my portal and received the same message (that i was not invited to the Honors Program). I applied EA and was accepted, but I did not indicate that I wanted to be considered for the Honors Program. I was nominated by my high school for the Presidential and I wrote and submitted the essays on time. I wonder if this “Honors” announcement means I will not be considered for the Presidential. If anyone has information, please post.

I do not see an update. Where are you seeing this?

For me, right under the “Application Status” box, there is a heading in bold entitled “Honors Update”

Wondering of Honors is linked to St Augustine at all? Did not submit for Presidential- was not aware of it at the time but holding out hope for a St Augustine invitation. Was not asked to join Honors.

I wonder if they are notifying only people who did not receive honors, because my son (36 ACT, 4.14 GPA) did not get any update at all. Unless I am missing something. I see:

Status Update An update to your application was last posted January 11, 2019. View Update >> Verify Address

We clicked everywhere and nothing new. @marcerino I am surprised with your stats you didn’t get in.

@WineLover That very well could be the case. They are supposed to notify people of Honors invitations by the end of January, so my assumption is that he most likely got in if he hasn’t been notified otherwise. Keep us updated and let’s hold out hopes for the scholarship!

@WineLover That sounds likely.

I got in EA with a 35 ACT, 4.26 wGPA and I have not seen an update.

@marcerino same for my son. Not in Honors. I am not sure if that is linked to eligibility for St. Augustine scholarship?

OK, I just looked on the website and we didn’t realize you had to apply to the honors program. That’s too bad because it was not obvious on the common app. I just went back and looked, and it is not clear on the common app how to apply. Was there a separate application for the honors program?

@WineLover - I do not see that anywhere either

Here are the links to the Nova honor program and scholarship application https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/provost/honors/faqs.html#question_faq_0 https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/admission/affordable/scholarships.html

OK, so I guess it’s clearly decided DS will not attend Villanova if he did not get into honors. To have to apply is kind of strange when there was not clear indication to do that. And how they would think someone with his stats would enroll without being in honors is kind of strange too. Oh well…water under the bridge. It would be interesting to see if he got the scholarship but not in honors…now that would be an interesting dichotomy.

@WineLover I don’t think you have to apply unless you’re already a current student. It seems perspective students are invited without application: “Students accepted to Villanova University are invited to the Honors Program at the time of their acceptance to the University. Students are strongly encouraged to submit their Villanova applications by November 1. Current Villanova students with a GPA of at least 3.50 may apply for admission into the Honors Program.”

@marcerino Thanks so much for checking that. This is what I found on the Villanova website about prospective students:

“Students interested in Honors should apply to Villanova by November 1 to be considered for the Program. Applicants interested in being considered for the Program must ‘indicate this on the member section of the Common Application.’ Students admitted to Villanova University are invited to the Honors Program within a week of their acceptance to the University. Those not initially invited may request to be added to the waiting list for consideration should space be available after the May 1, 2019 enrollment deadline.” https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/provost/honors/prospective_students.html

I am unclear what they mean by member section of the Common App, and looking at the application my son submitted, there was nowhere I could see that asked the question about honors program. That is why I think we may have missed something? They also say they are invited at the time of acceptance…and that did not happen. The only other thing I am wondering is whether something would be in the packet.

My S18 was accepted EA to Villanova last year and was not invited to Honors, or invited to apply for St. Augustine scholarship. He was nominated by his school and did apply for the Presidential, but did not make it past the first round. He had very high stats (4.3 wgpa, 36 ACT, NMF,12 APs,…) and good ECs both academic and athletic; he was a very well rounded student. He even contacted Villanova to ask for reconsideration for Honors but was only put on a waitlist.

Villanova totally dropped off his list because of this lack of invitation to honors and scholarship. It had been one of his top choices. I was very surprised by this outcome, and noticed that last year’s threads about honors and St. Augustine showed several students with lower stats receiving both. It must be very holistic and I do believe that my S was your run-of-the-mill Villanova student, outside of his high stats.

Thanks @appalachymom . Can you share whether you had to do anything special on the common app to become considered for honors? That is what is puzzling me. S19 did not get any notification on his portal either way, whereas some students are being notified they did not get into honors. S19 has similar stats to your son. Very strange that your son was not invited to apply for scholarship and not invited to honors. Where did he end up?

@appalachymom Wow, it definitely must be holistic. To me though, an Honors College should be purely about academics. It is a bit odd that people well above the median at Villanova didn’t get invited. My guess is that spots are very limited and it’s much more likely for you to get in after you are enrolled to ensure yield or because they value doing well at their school more than doing well on standardized tests in HS (naturally).

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• Agent Assisted* VIP travel services specializing in complex and international travel.
• Check with your department to see if additional authorization is needed to book using Cadence.
• Traveler is responsible for fees associated with booking and changes to travel when using agent assisted booking.
• First time user of Cadence? Start here with Cadence

*You are responsible for fees associated with agent assisted booking.

Book and Manage Travel

There are many benefits to booking your travel through an Emory travel partner , whether for work or personal. Benefits such as:

• Priority boarding and preferred seating on Delta (PDF)
• Higher discounted rates, and Rapid Rewards(c) on Southwest
• CLEAR preferred annual pricing
• No change fees
• Discounts on lodging, ground transportation* and parking
• Automatic enrollment in Emory's ISOS system, if traveling abroad

* Note that a Car Service should be booked through Emory Express .

Travelers are responsible for understanding Emory's Travel and Expense Policy (login required) before planning and commencing travel. Exceptions to airfare upgrade policy can be requested [PDF] .

Global services are available to support Emory's faculty and staff traveling abroad in support of their research and other global work.

Insurance while Traveling [PDF]

2023 irs mileage rate reimbursement, how to add your speedtype when booking travel online [docx], airfare upgrade exception form [pdf].

Cuba Travel Policy

The U.S. Government broadly regulates and restricts transactions involving Cuba under the Cuban Assets Control Regulations 31 CFR Part 515 (CACR) The regulations prohibit persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction from engaging in transactions in which with Cuba or Cuban national has direct or indirect interest, including transactions related to travel. This prohibition includes travel-related transactions that are not authorized under a general or specific license. A general license authorizes the activity or transaction within the regulations if all conditions are met. A specific license is issued on a case-by-case basis by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), U.S. Department of the Treasury. See more below under "Activity Restrictions."

The CACR is subject to change, and the detail below was updated under the guidance of the Export Control Office July 29, 2022.

Due to the restricted nature of travel to Cuba, Emory-sponsored travel requires advanced review and approval. This review and approval is specific to travel to Cuba and is in addition to any other department, school, or university travel approvals that may be required.

If you are planning travel to Cuba, please contact Global Services and follow the procedures outlined below. 

Procedures for Emory Travel to Cuba

• The reason for your trip
• Expected activities while in Cuba, including a detailed itinerary and potential or confirmed accommodations and engagement partners
• Anticipated travel dates
• Any Emory-owned items or equipment (e.g., laptops) you plan to take with you

Global Services will then work with the Export Control Office to determine if a specific license is needed or if the travel can take place under a general license. Specific licenses can take several months to obtain and are not always granted. 

Global Services will contact Emory's Office of Insurance Services to request insurance coverage and documentation for your travel to Cuba. Even if your trip is permitted under a general or specific license, Emory's Office of Insurance Services must be notified ahead of your travel so that coverage can be secured, as appropriate.

Global Services will work with Office of Insurance Services to 1) request workers compensation and general liability coverage for your time in Cuba, and 2) obtain documentation of your International SOS coverage, which may be requested by Cuban authorities upon entry.

This step takes at least 10 days and requires the following information:

• Your full name as it appears on your passport
• Your finalized travel dates

2) Request travel permission  as required by your department, school, or by the University . 

3) Review the "Guidance for Travelers to Cuba" below to understand traveler responsibilities, restrictions, requirements. 

4) Contact  Kenya Casey, Director of Global Safety and Security , for a 30-minute briefing on safety, security, and an overview of the resources available to Emory travelers. 

5) Review the U.S. State Department's information on visa, entry, and exit requirements for Cuba. As noted there, travelers should contact the Cuban Embassy in Washington to determine the appropriate type of visa for their travel.

6) Make your travel arrangements . Emory's travel vendors can book travel to Cuba. If travelers wish to book through CTM, they are advised to book through a CTM agent rather than the online booking portal when making travel arrangements for Cuba. See details on Emory’s travel vendors here , and please contact Emory Travel if you have any questions about booking travel to Cuba with an Emory agency.

7) Register your flight, hotel, and any other internal transit with International SOS.

Activity Restrictions

Activities prohibited without specific u.s. government authorization.

Any activity that is not described below as being authorized under a general license also requires a specific license from OFAC.

Please note specific licenses can take months to process, so it is important to contact the Export Control Office as soon as possible. Licenses are not guaranteed.

Activities Authorized Under General Licenses

Some activities are authorized under a general license in the CACR, meaning that there is no need to apply for a specific license. These activities include:

Professional Research (see §515.564(a)(1)): Travel-related transactions listed below and other additional transactions directly incidental to professional research are authorized provided that:

• The purpose of the research directly relates to the traveler's profession, professional background, or area of expertise, including area of graduate-level full-time study; and
• The traveler's schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule of professional research.

Professional Meetings in Cuba (see §515.564(a)(2)): Travel-related transactions listed below and other additional transactions directly incident to attendance at, or organization of, professional meetings or conferences in Cuba are authorized, provided that:

• For a traveler attending a professional meeting or conference, the purpose of the meeting or conference directly relates to the traveler's profession, professional background, or area of expertise, including area of graduate-level full-time study;
• (ii) For a traveler organizing a professional meeting or conference on behalf of an entity, either the traveler's profession must be related to the organization of professional meetings or conferences or the traveler must be an employee or contractor of an entity that is organizing the professional meeting or conference; and
• (iii) The traveler's schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule of attendance at, or organization of, professional meetings or conferences.

NOTE: An entire group does not qualify for the general license in paragraph (a) of §515.564 merely because some members of the group qualify individually.

Educational Activities (see §515.565): Travel-related transactions listed below and other additional transactions directly incidental to educational activities specified in §515.565(a)(1) and §515.565(a)(2) are authorized. Educational activities most relevant to Emory include:

• Participation in a structured educational program in Cuba as part of a for-credit course sponsored by Emory.
• Noncommercial academic research specifically related to Cuba for the purpose of obtaining an undergraduate or graduate degree.
• Participation in a formal course of study at a Cuban academic institution, provided the course of study will be accepted by Emory for credit toward an undergraduate or graduate degree.
• Teaching at a Cuban academic institution related to an academic program at the Cuban institution, provided the individual is a regular employee of Emory.
• Sponsorship or co-sponsorship of noncommercial academic seminars, conferences, symposia, and workshops related to Cuba or global issues involving Cuba. Emory faculty, staff, and students may also attend such events.
• Establishment of academic exchanges and joint non-commercial academic research projects with Cuban universities or academic institutions.
• The organization of, and preparation for, activities described above by Emory faculty and staff.
• Provision of internet-based courses, including distance learning and Massive Open Online Courses, to Cuban nationals, wherever located, provided that the course content is at the undergraduate level or below.

The Educational Activities general license also allows Emory to sponsor Cuban scholars to teach or engage in other scholarly activities at Emory and to pay the scholar a stipend or salary to do so.

Note: For those activities above with a 10-week minimum stipulation, travel may still be authorized if:

• The Emory employee, Emory paid consultant, or Emory agent is traveling individually; or
• A group of travelers is accompanied by an Emory Representative (e.g., Emory employee, Emory paid consultant, Emory agent) who is subject to U.S. jurisdiction .

Travelers to Cuba must carry a letter from Emory that states their travel meets these requirements. Letters for faculty or staff travelers should state their status as full-time regular Emory employees unless they are accompanied by another Emory Representative with a letter from Emory, provided that the individual traveler is covered by that letter. This letter will be provided to you by the Export Control Office during the trip approval process.

NOTE: If you have questions or are considering traveling to Cuba on Emory business that does not fall into the categories above, please contact Global Services.

Guidance for Travelers to Cuba

Travel-related transactions authorized under general licenses.

See § 515.560(c)

• Transportation to, from, and within Cuba; Cuban visas. All transportation-related transactions ordinarily incident to travel to, from, and within Cuba, including the acquisition of Cuban visas, are authorized.
• Living expenses in Cuba. All transactions ordinarily incident to travel within Cuba, including payment of living expenses and the acquisition in Cuba of goods for personal consumption there, are authorized.
• Importation of Cuban merchandise. The purchase or other acquisition in Cuba and importation as accompanied baggage into the United States of merchandise is authorized, provided that the merchandise is imported for personal use only. This does NOT authorize importation of Cuban-origin alcohol and tobacco products.
• Importation, export and transmission of information and informational materials such as publications, films, posters, phonograph records, photographs, microfilms, microfiche, tapes, compact disks, CD ROMs, artworks, news wire feeds, and other information and informational articles, as defined in 31 C.F.R. §515.332, that are fully created and in existence at the date of the transaction are generally exempt from the prohibitions and regulations. It should be noted that the exemption does not permit substantive or artistic alteration or enhancement of information or informational materials, or to the provision of marketing and business consulting services.
• Credit and debit cards. All transactions incident to the processing and payment of credit and debit cards involving authorized transactions are also authorized. Travelers should check with their financial institution before traveling to Cuba to determine whether the institution has established the necessary mechanisms for its credit or debit cards to be used in Cuba.

Limitations on General Licenses by the Cuba Restricted List: Prohibited Hotels, Businesses, Entities

The U.S. Department of State maintains a list of Cuban entities under the control of, or acting for or on behalf of, the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services or personnel. This list includes several hotels and accommodations facilities in major Cuban cities.

Emory travelers are prohibited from conducting any transactions with parties on the list, including lodging at any listed lodging facility. U.S. persons are prohibited from engaging in a direct financial transaction with entities and subentities identified on the list, referred to as the Cuba Restricted List .

Travel with University Laptop and Equipment

Generally, Emory travelers traveling under the general licenses outlined above can rely on an export control license exception called Support for the Cuban People (SCP) to travel with their Emory-issued laptop. This exception requires an electronic filing with U.S. Customs called Electronic Export Information (EEI) . The same license exception may be available for other items. Please notify Global Services of all items that you plan to take on your trip. The Export Control Office will assist with evaluating license exceptions and submitting any required filings.

Record-keeping Requirements

U.S. regulations require travelers to Cuba to retain detailed documentation of their itinerary in Cuba. The itinerary must reflect a full-time schedule of activities that directly pertains to the permitted trip purpose. For example, those traveling to participate in a permitted educational program must have an itinerary that documents their full-time engagement in such a program.

Travelers to Cuba must also maintain records of all of their travel-related transactions, including those:

• Related to transportation and ordinary travel expenses (e.g., lodging, living expenses, meals and other items for personal consumption).
• Related to the purchase of Cuban goods to be brought bring back to the U.S.
• Incident to the processing and payment of credit cards, debit cards, stored value cards, traveler’s checks, and similar mechanisms (as well as the opening and closing of any bank accounts, if relevant).

Travelers should retain their itinerary and records for   five years .

• U.S. Department of Treasury, Frequently Asked Questions Related to Cuba
• September 23, 2020: “Treasury Amends Regulations to Restrict Revenue Sources to the Cuban Regime”
• State Department List of Restricted Entities and Subentities Associated with Cuba
• State Department List of Cuba Prohibited Accommodations 
• U.S. Department of State, Travel Information for Cuba

If you have questions about this policy or other matters related to travel to Cuba, please contact Global Services .

RESC Division

• Research, Engagement & Scholarly Communications
• Travel Policy and Travel Request Form

General RESC Division Travel Guidelines

RESC Division Travel Guidelines:

In addition to E mory University guidelines for travel , the RESC division uses the guidelines below in approving funding for professional development or training:

• No allocation per person. 
• Training required for job responsibilities
• Presenting at a professional conference; organizing a panel; participating on a panel, or holding a poster session
• Attending committee meetings of professional associations as a leader or member
• Everyone should have at least one professional development opportunity funded. 
• 3 nights is the norm.  If additional nights are required, please explain in the justification section.
• Many subject librarians request travel for both a subject and library related conference; attempts will be made to honor both, budget permitting (see also priority section)
• Book fairs (see BOX to the right)
• International travel*
• Regional conferences - $0-$999
• National conferences - $500 - $2000
• International - $1000 - $3,500

Travel & Professional Development Request Form

Please use this form to request travel and professional development 

https://tinyurl.com/FY24profdevRESC  

Once approved, your team leader will send you a speed type to use on your expense report. Please keep track of this information.

RESC Leaders will send out calls for professional development/ travel requests in September, November, March, and June.  However, you can use this form at anytime.  Approvals are rolling and occur weekly at the RESC Leaders Group meetings, Tuesdays at 10am. 

FY24 Travel and Professional Development Guidelines

However, funds are not unlimited, so if you already know you want to attend something during FY24 (and have a good idea about costs), you are encouraged to request early.  

What needs to get submitted? -

• Please submit any travel or professional development request that requires funding
• If you are proposing a virtual opportunity that is longer than 8 hours total, please submit a request for approval for time away, even if the cost is $0.   

Once a virtual opportunity is approved, we expect you to mark the time off on your calendar so that you can focus and your colleagues and patrons won't schedule meetings and appointments with you.   

Please use the same form for BOTH requests for in-person travel and virtual conferences and training opportunities.  

Emory Travel Policy: Booking Airfare and Hotels

To review the Emory University guidelines for travel please visit:

• Travel Page:  https://finance.emory.edu/home/procurement/travel/index.html
• Travel Policies:   https://emory.ellucid.com/documents/view/19638 (login required)

When considering International travel, please check updates to the Emory travel policy as well as  CDC guidelines to ensure health and safety. 

To Book Air Travel , please use Emory Travel Authority- ETA ( click here to login to the CTM portal, then click on the Concur app)

Use CTM to find fares and book hotels, but please DO NOT use the speed type as a payment option (rather use your EMORY VISA for booking airfare). 

Non-Local Lodging:   For Emory's non-local lodging needs, be sure to view Emory's Tax-Exempt Certificates list to see if Emory is tax-exempt in that particular state of your destination.   When staying at a conference hotel, you can book from ETA but refuse their suggestion.

If you need to communicate with a CTM agent team, you can e-mal them at [email protected]

Book Fair Travel Approval Process

While book buying and book fair trips have components of professional development, they are primarily for collection building and will be paid from subject funds (or endowment funds, if appropriate).  

These trips will be approved by the team leader, and communicated to Collection Head (Chris Palazzolo) in collection management as an FYI.  Chris will manage communicating with requester t he speed type to be used.

Guidelines are similar to any other travel:

• there are no allocations per person (number of trips or fund caps), BUT justification should include reasonable expense requests
• each book buying trip requires a written report due to the team leader and collection head that outlines the benefits and impact of the trip.

Team leaders may want to consider the IASC21 Statement: The Value of International Travel for Area Studies Librarians when making decisions about travel to international book fairs.  

• Professional development and (re)training within the area of responsibility through interactions with library- and scholarly-communities in the area of research as well as attending conferences, workshops and symposia

• Networking with project partners and donors

• Establishment of direct connections with research institutes, libraries, archives and other sources of information which can subsequently be utilized by library staff, faculty and students

• Creation of new and/or maintenance of established vendor relationships for more cost- and timeeffective acquisition of resources as well as opportunities for mutual education • Identification and procurement of unique materials

• Discovery of secondary sources and out-of-print material and identification of publishing trends

• Exploring, promoting and/or developing open access initiatives, particularly in a “post-custodial” frame of mind

• Serving as ambassadors of our universities specifically but also of US higher/public education more generally to a greater world

• IASC21 Statement IASC21 Statement: The Value of International Travel for Area Studies Librarians (2016)
• << Previous: Research, Engagement & Scholarly Communications
• Last Updated: Feb 6, 2024 12:05 PM
• URL: https://guides.libraries.emory.edu/main/RESC_division

LITS Archive of Online News

• Meet New Employees
• News and Events
• Projects and Processes
• Staff Bytes
• Update from Leadership

Key things to note about using the new travel management partner

• For Agent assisted travel, call 877-289-4627 or email emory [at] travelctm [dot] com
• For CTM technical support, call 877-208-1396 or email na_online [at] travelctm [dot] com

Travel Profile

Set up your Travel profile using the Quick Start Job Aid.

Existing Reservations and Unused Tickets

If you have an existing reservation that was booked through BCD or Maupin, please use them. For questions, changes, cancellations or unused tickets please contact  travel [at] emory [dot] edu . 

LITS REQUIREMENTS WITH THE CHANGE TO THE NEW TRAVEL AGENCY (CTM):

• LITS prefers all travel purchases be made using an Emory Corporate Card. 
• Apply for a Corporate Card at:   https://finance.emory.edu/home/travel/payingfortravel.html
• LITS is not allowing Direct Billing (use of ST) when purchasing travel through CTM.
• Receipts requirements document can be found at https://finance.emory.edu/home/travel/receipt%20requirements%20effective%20d21413.pdf
• Travel Polices document can be found at:  http://policies.emory.edu

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Feb. 24, 2023

Emory’s Global Safety and Security team offers helpful recommendations for those preparing for university-sponsored international travel.

As spring approaches and you begin to make travel arrangements — whether you’re studying abroad, conducting research, attending a conference or engaging in community service — it's important to review a planning checklist prior to any travel sponsored by Emory University.  

Your safety and well-being are invaluable. That’s why the university’s  Global Safety and Security team is readily available to offer global travel guidance to all Emory University travelers (faculty, staff or students). This includes conducting pre-departure travel briefings, addressing any health or security concerns, and equipping you with the necessary tools and resources to respond to an emergency while abroad. By properly planning and preparing, you can minimize disruptions and travel with ease, regardless of your destination.    

Check out these tips to implement on your next international trip.

1. Familiarize yourself with International SOS services.

When on Emory-sponsored travel, book with an Emory-approved agency so that your itinerary is automatically registered with International SOS. If travel is booked anywhere else, you will need to manually input all travel segments and lodging details into MyTrips by using the Assistance App or the MyPortal website.

2. Review the destination on the International SOS portal and request a medical and security briefing.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Before embarking on your travel, it is important to research the destination and familiarize yourself with current events and destination-specific religious or cultural practices. Oftentimes, we focus more on the excitement of the trip than the need for safety and security. International SOS can provide an easy-to-read briefing document containing the latest medical and security information, including potential risks, so you can make informed travel decisions.

3. For Emory-sponsored travel, schedule a pre-departure travel briefing with one month prior to the trip.

The Global Safety and Security team is here to provide guidance and best practices for safe international travel. In addition to addressing safety and security concerns, pre-departure travel briefings include an overview of resources available to you during your travels.

4. Assess your health.

Review your immunization and medication needs. Emory TravelWell Center is a great resource for Emory employees, or you may visit your primary care doctor. Students should consider booking an appointment at the Travel Clinic within Student Health Services. Although Emory-sponsored travel provides emergency evacuation and emergency medical coverage through International SOS, you are responsible for all non-emergency healthcare costs. Please review and ensure you are informed of the international coverage for your primary health insurance plan.

5. Create a personal emergency plan.

How will loved ones contact you? Do your loved ones know who to contact at Emory if something happens to you? Do you have an emergency contact who can advocate and/or make legal and financial decisions on your behalf if you are unable?

When you have answers to these questions, your loved ones will be more at ease knowing you have a personal emergency and communication plan. Remember, however, that choosing an emergency contact is more than simply listing a friend or roommate’s name. This person will have the responsibility to make medical and financial decisions on your behalf, if needed. For example, if you are unconscious and need medical attention, your emergency contact would be asked questions about your care. If you have any specific wishes, an estate plan or an advance health directive, be sure your emergency contact person is aware. Also ensure that your emergency contact or loved one has a valid passport in case they need to travel to your host country due to a medical emergency.

6. Bring proper documentation.

Being denied boarding is not a pleasant experience. Do you have all the required documents for travel? Have a paper copy of all documents placed somewhere accessible on your person and securely in your carry-on, including confirmed hotel accommodations, valid passports, vaccine cards and any required visas or permits. Be ready to present these documents when requested.

7. Finalize details.

Before arriving at your destination, register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State (if applicable). The U.S. Embassy may be engaged for certain emergencies. If you are traveling with a non-U.S. passport, please research whether the country of issuance has a similar travel notification program. Ensure you have all your travel documents, including any pertaining to country-specific COVID-19 entry requirements. Give copies of your travel documents to your emergency contacts.   

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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VILLANOVA FIRST-YEAR WRITING SUPPLEMENTS

The Office of Undergraduate Admission seeks applicants with characteristics that reflect our three core values: Veritas (Truth), Unitas (Unity) and Caritas (Love). These values define us as Villanovans. They are indelibly printed on our University seal and are a clear indication of our Augustinian identity.

At Villanova, we view our writing supplements as a unique opportunity for students to move beyond the transcript and introduce the individual behind the application. Villanova requires applicants to submit both their Common Application essay and  two short Villanova Writing Supplements . The two supplemental responses must be different from the response shared in the Common Application essay section.

Writing Supplement #1: Villanova Free Choice (2023-24)

For the first Villanova-specific essay, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, experiences, and opinions. Choose one of the four topics below and submit a written response in  about  250 words.

Prompt One: St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities? 

Prompt Two: As an Augustinian community, we believe that you should see people for who they are. Please share with us a time when you were misjudged based on your identity or background.

Prompt Three: In the Villanova community, we learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others? 

Prompt Four: At Villanova, we often say "each of us strengthens all of us." In a time of personal challenges, how do you borrow from the strength of others? 

Writing Supplement #2: Why Villanova? (2023-24)

Prompt: Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and become part of our community? 

Please respond in  about 150 words.

Common Application Essay

Please also submit the essay of your choice from the 2023-24 Common Application Essay Prompts .

Important Note

The Admission Committee expects that each writing supplement be the original work of the applicant, unaided by artificial intelligence. Those found to be submitting writing that is not their own may be denied or have their admission rescinded.

To alleviate the stress and anxiety surrounding the composition of your writing supplements, please consider these tips. We hope they may help guide you as you craft your responses!

Speak Your Truth

Every person has a story to tell. We want to know yours! Your writing supplements are a window into your truest self. Share what makes you unique and express yourself authentically.

This should be fun! Most of your application is largely unchanging. Parts of high school may or may not have gone as planned, but your writing supplements are something you are creating from scratch. When done well, it can show your personality and character. Embrace that!

Make your words count and worry less about counting your words

There are no right or wrong answers.

The questions we craft are done with the intent of getting to know you. There is no magic formula or secret code. We are looking for you to think critically and give us insight to add to your application.

Seriously proofread and proofread seriously

A well-crafted response is usually the product of many revisions. Please review your content and edit your work before you submit it for consideration. You may be surprised to learn how often we come across avoidable typos or grammatical errors. We know you are eager to complete your application, but taking a little extra time to check your work can go a long way!

Ask for a second opinion, not a rewrite

It can be helpful to ask someone to read over your writing to make sure everything makes sense, but also keep in mind that this needs to be your voice. While any suggested improvements can help serve as some guidance, they should not completely change the original content.

APPLYING TO VILLANOVA

• FIRST-YEAR APPLICANTS
• TRANSFER APPLICANTS
• APPLICATION DATES AND DEADLINES
• APPLICATION ESSAYS
• FIRST-YEAR ADMISSION PROFILE
• APPLICANT STATUS PAGE

Villanova University Office of Undergraduate Admission 800 E. Lancaster Avenue Villanova, PA 19085

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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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A Great Pitt Honors College Essay Example

What’s covered:, essay example – changing the world , where to get your pitt essay edited.

The University of Pittsburgh is a large public university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that is known for its great academics. The David C. Frederick Honors College at Pitt offers even more opportunities to a select group of talented students. Given the highly selective nature of the Pitt Honors College, you need to have strong essays to help your application stand out and gain admission. In this post, we’ll share a real essay a student submitted to the University of Pittsburgh Honors College, and outline its strengths and areas of improvement. (Names and identifying information have been changed, but all other details are preserved).

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our Pitt essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Prompt: If you could change anything in the world, what would it be? Explain why and how you would change it. (No word count given)

While growing up, I was constantly reminded about my health. When I would rant about my trivial problems, my mother would respond with: “the most important thing is you are healthy.” As a young and naive child, this response irritated me. I never understood the blessing of good health until I was diagnosed with migraines. Every month I was met with throbbing headaches that made me lose all sensation and control of my body.

On one New Year’s Eve, I went to visit family friends with my father and sister. The flashing lights on the television and little sleep triggered a migraine attack. Without my mother present, everyone was unfamiliar with my frightening symptoms. Out of panic, they decided to call an ambulance. That one simple call and visit resulted in a one-year battle with our insurance company. For months on end, my mother argued against the unfair and hurtful statements the insurance listed as reasons for their refusal of payment. These endless calls brought about extreme stress and frustration, but we did not have the means to pay. There was no other option but to keep on fighting.

This was my first memorable experience with healthcare and its failures. From that day forward, I associated care with payment. I became worried about affording medical treatment at an early age. And so, if I had the power to change the world, I would make healthcare more affordable. Every individual deserves to be treated without the worry of a costly bill.

While I realize that affordable healthcare is a point of debate in our nation, I maintain my stance that it is a human right. I also understand that it will take years to put into place, but this does not discourage me. I can help start the change. With Pitt Honors, I will be exposed to interactive research, a matched mentor, and personalized co-curricular activities. I will be able to become a skilled nurse with critical thinking abilities. With the development of leadership skills, I plan to make a difference. Whether it be taking a high position role at a no-cost clinic or shaping healthcare reforms, I know Pitt Honors College will help me achieve my dream. Whether it be taking a high position role at a no-cost clinic or shaping healthcare reforms, I plan to make a difference.

What the Essay Did Well

Something that makes this essay strong is how it takes time to tell a story and build an understanding for the author before we even learn what they would change about the world. The essay begins by introducing the idea of health, but because we aren’t told what they want to change yet, we are compelled to keep reading. Then, the anecdote helps us appreciate the personal connection this student has to affordable healthcare. They take the time to fully flesh out the context needed to answer the why aspect of the prompt, while at the same time building suspense for the what .

Additionally, this student went above and beyond the prompt by connecting it back to Pitt. They weren’t explicitly asked to discuss how an education from the Pitt Honors Program would help them change the world, but by including this paragraph it demonstrates genuine interest in the school. If an essay can prove that you can only accomplish your goals — especially such impressive ones like changing the world — by taking advantage of unique opportunities at that specific school, then admissions officers might feel they are denying you the chance to reach your full potential by not accepting you.

What Could Be Improved

The area that could use the most improvement in this essay is the last paragraph dedicated to Pitt. Although it’s great that this student took the extra step to include how attending the Honors College will allow them to achieve their goals, the paragraph is a bit vague. To improve it, there should be more specific details, about classes, programs, professors, etc, to show that they have done their research and think taking advantage of these offerings are the only way to change the world. 

For example, the essay says, “With the development of leadership skills, I plan to make a difference.” This sentence would be far stronger if the student mentioned a specific club or volunteer program they want to be a part of and how emerging as a leader in that experience would help them become a leader in the medical field. Or, they mention the Honors College will expose them to research and match them with a mentor, but they don’t elaborate on this. 

The entire paragraph could have just been dedicated to one specific professor whose research aligns with affordable healthcare and what this student hopes to learn from them. Having a more focused and detailed approach to why you want to attend a college will always make for a stronger essay than briefly touching on general opportunities offered at most schools. 

Do you want feedback on your Pitt essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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