Van Wilder

Vance 'Van' Wilder is introduced as a confident seventh-year senior at Coolidge College. He enjoys a carefree life on campus, spending his time socializing and organizing parties without any immediate intention of graduating.

Van's father arrives at Coolidge College after learning of his son's extended stay. He aims to bring Van home, but upon refusal, decides to cut off financial support, putting Van's continued education at risk.

Facing potential expulsion due to unpaid tuition fees, Van seeks an extension from the registrar. After a night of passion with Deloris Haver, the registrar, he learns that a simple request could have sufficed, but he still needs to come up with $20,000 quickly.

Van meets Gwen Pearson, a determined journalist for the student newspaper. She is tasked with writing about him, despite his efforts to avoid media attention, setting up a complex relationship between them.

To meet the financial demands of his tuition, Van embarks on various fundraising adventures, including sexy tutoring sessions and organizing a naked mile run. These activities showcase his creative and humorous approach to solving his problems.

The Lambda Omega Omega fraternity approaches Van with an offer of $1,000 to throw a legendary party. Accepting the challenge, Van begins planning the event to help elevate the fraternity's reputation while also funding his tuition.

The party thrown by Van becomes a massive success, garnering attention and admiration across campus. Gwen reports on the event, crediting Van, which initially frustrates him as he contemplates the repercussions of this newfound fame.

Gwen's boyfriend, Dick Bagg, becomes increasingly jealous of her relationship with Van. Their rivalry escalates into a series of humorous and humiliating pranks, showcasing the lengths they will go to undermine each other.

Gwen discovers that Van has deliberately stayed in college to avoid graduating, trailing 18 credits short of a degree. This revelation creates tension between them, leading Van to distance himself from her as he reassesses his choices.

Richard attempts a final act of sabotage by sneaking minors into Van's party, leading to a police raid. This reckless move results in Van's arrest, placing his future at Coolidge in serious jeopardy.

Feeling defeated, Van considers giving up until Taj rallies support from their classmates. This encouragement empowers Van to confront the university panel about his charges and push for a chance to finish his education.

During the university panel, Van takes responsibility for the party's chaos. He argues passionately for a chance to graduate instead of facing expulsion, impressing both peers and faculty with his determination.

In a surprising turn of events, Professor McDougal votes in favor of allowing Van to graduate. This decision enables him to complete his coursework in just six days, marking a significant turning point in his academic journey.

On graduation day, Van successfully completes his finals and learns he has passed. Gwen showcases his accomplishments in an article, revealing Richard's underhanded attempts to undermine him and thus leading to Richard's downfall.

The university celebrates Van's graduation with a lively party. Gwen arrives to express her feelings for Van, culminating in a heartfelt reunion amid the chaos, symbolizing their growth and partnership throughout their journey.