Resources for Graduate Students and Their Families
Many graduate students have spouses, partners, and/or children, and the Graduate School recognizes that they may need additional support and services. We list several references and resources below, including childcare and babysitting opportunities.
Little Hokie™ Hangout
Little Hokie Hangout is a an early childhood education program offered by the Graduate School. The Hangout is accepting applications for fall semester 2025. Use this registration form.
Child Care Providers
Virginia Tech’s Hokie Wellness office provides lists of family day care providers, child care centers, and babysitters, as well as tools to help you make the best child care decisions for your family’s needs.
Free Weekly Babysitting: Kids' Night Out
During fall and spring semesters while classes are in session, the Virginia Tech Women’s Community Center sponsors Kids' Night Out, a free weekly drop-in child care program at 206 Washington Street on Thursdays between 6:30-8 p.m for children ages 2-12 (must be toilet trained). Please check the Women’s Community Center website womenscenter.vt.edu for a link to the sign-up page. The program, provided by volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority, offers games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.
Virginia Tech Human Resources
Jobs at Virginia Tech are listed here.
Roanoke Times
Employment opportunities in the New River Valley, Roanoke Valley, and surrounding areas are advertised through this newspaper.
Bringing a Spouse or Children to the U.S.
International students in F-1 or J-1 visa status may request an I-20 or DS-2019 form for a dependent (spouse or unmarried minor child). Contact the Cranwell International Center to learn more.
Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute (LCI)
The LCI’s intensive English program helps international students and their spouses/partners meet their personal, academic, and professional goals through intensive English language study. Find out more at the LCI website.
The federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act became law in June 2023. Virginia Tech has information about the law and about resources and accommodations women can request. Visit this website to learn more.
Information about public schools in Blacksburg and the surrounding area.
The university has created a caregiving resources website to support members of the VT community with information about local child care, early education and adult care.
Graduate student spouses and partners face unique challenges – isolation, financial stresses, difficulty finding work and/or childcare, and adjusting to life in Blacksburg. Many Graduate School programs are open to spouses and partners, and some programs are offered with children in mind as well. If you are interested in establishing a program for spouses and partners, contact grads@vt.edu for information and assistance.