2024 Best Colleges in Virginia

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  2,415 reviews

Senior: I grew to love the University of Virginia. I moved to Charlottesville during the pandemic, so I was not aware of the little "traditions" that UVA has - and more I learned about our school and traditions, I grew to like it. Visiting local Bodo's and getting number 1, visiting Carter's Mountain sunset series, partying and studying hard - all these experiences made my memories throughout my four years of UVA and two more to go!... Read 2,415 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $19,469

• SAT range 1400-1540

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  475 reviews

Alum: I loved my time at W&L. That school helped me grow into the person I am today. The small classes allowed me to have one-on-one time with my professors, many of whom I still speak with to this day. My friends and classmates continue to support me post grad, and the alumni network has been very accessible as I have applied to graduate programs. The school was very safe -- the only time we had a public safety announcement was when there was a bear on the outskirts of campus (living in the mountains has its perks and drawbacks). W&L is in a very very small town -- which I loved -- but may not be for everyone. I felt the academics were challenging but not impossible, and professors were accessible when I had questions. The school is not as diverse as other schools, and is more diverse than it gets credit for. There is a lot of geographic diversity -- very few students are from Virginia -- as well as wealth diversity. Most students are on some scholarship. I'd highly recommend W&L.... Read 475 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 17%

• Net price $24,733

• SAT range 1410-1530

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  4,162 reviews

Sophomore: I have partaken in multiple clubs throughout my semesters here at Virginia Tech where I was able to develop leadership skills that I would have never thought to gain. Out of all the extracurriculars I have partook in, there are a couple I would like to speak upon that greatly impacted my leadership expertise which I can carry onto my future positions. Due to these activities, I took place in, I was able to get the Residential Well-being Student Leader position for the fall and other great opportunities I am grateful for. The leadership opportunities that I took part in include English Language Learner (ELL) Tutor, Sunday School Substitute teacher, and Hokie Health Advisor for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA). Overall the experience at Virginia Tech is amazing!... Read 4,162 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $19,301

• SAT range 1240-1430

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,630 reviews

Junior: I have largely enjoyed my experience as an undergraduate student at the College of William & Mary. The institution is responsive to students’ needs, and I have witnessed significant administrative changes in the short time that I have been here. The registration system used for course selection and the dining hall food service provider switch from Sodexo to Amarak are two of these changes, both of which have contributed favorably to students’ overall satisfaction. The flexibility of academic requirements have allowed me to pursue an early graduation and set my sights on a graduate program! Though I look forward to what comes next, I will miss this school dearly. William & Mary has become my second home, and I don’t know how I’ll be able to say goodbye.... Read 1,630 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 33%

• Net price $25,688

• SAT range 1370-1520

• University Of Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  773 reviews

Freshman: My experience at the University of Richmond was transformative. Immersed in a vibrant academic community, I thrived in engaging classes led by passionate professors. Beyond academics, I found a diverse array of extracurricular opportunities, from joining clubs to participating in community service projects. The campus's picturesque setting provided a serene backdrop for personal growth and reflection. Through meaningful interactions with peers and mentors, I cultivated lifelong friendships and expanded my worldview. Overall, my time at the University of Richmond was enriching, shaping me into a well-rounded individual equipped with knowledge, skills, and cherished memories for a lifetime.... Read 773 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 24%

• Net price $29,248

• SAT range 1340-1530

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  221 reviews

Sophomore: Virginia Military Institute has served me more than I ever imagines it would. When I first found out I was going to attend a military college I bawled my eyes out so hard I could barely breathe. I was terrified of a culture that was so foreign to me. I showed up as a blank slate and decided I was going to trust the process. In the two years I have attended this college I have been painted with new motivation and drive that I had never truly tapped into. The idea of trying something new and terrifying does not paralyze me anymore, it entices me. I wish to not just expand my capabilities, but to expand the capabilities of everyone beside me as well. I feel as though I have been given the tools to bring up myself and the people who are willing to trust me as well.... Read 221 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $18,129

• SAT range 1100-1300

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  3,232 reviews

Alum: I had a great experience at JMU. I was a kinesiology major and all the professors were amazing! definitely felt cared for by my professors and they were always willing to take the time to answer my many questions. As for general education professors, they could be hit or miss, but overall very attentive to the student's education. I was never into the party scene, but that is big here with greek and non-greek life. There is always a party going on, if you are into that, and other campus events on the weekends or club events. Sports are getting bigger here since we have entered the Sunbelt league. Once you find the right community, this place will feel like home. Whether that is a club you join, academic peers, or an outside community, there is something for everyone. I started at JMU the year before COVID hit, so I was all in-person and then all online. Now with things back to normal, it is all in person, but they give access to recordings for extra studying, which is nice.... Read 3,232 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $18,274

• SAT range 1140-1320

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  4,763 reviews

Graduate Student: t sounds like you have a deep affection for Virginia Commonwealth University! There could be many reasons why you love it. Perhaps it's the vibrant campus atmosphere, the sense of community among students and faculty, the quality of education you're receiving, the opportunities for personal and academic growth, or the beautiful surroundings in Richmond. What specifically draws you to VCU?... Read 4,763 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $21,294

• SAT range 1030-1290

• Hampden-sydney, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  177 reviews

Senior: Selecting Hampden-Sydney College was unequivocally the greatest decision I've ever made. Despite my childhood conviction that the University of Tennessee was my destined path, a single tour of Hampden-Sydney College shattered that belief, reshaping my entire perspective in an instant. If given the chance to rewind time, I would, without hesitation, choose Hampden-Sydney College once more. Its transformative impact on my life is unparalleled, and the opportunities it has afforded me are beyond measure. While the journey to acclimatization required patience and perseverance, it pales in comparison to the boundless rewards I've reaped since finding my place here. Hampden-Sydney College isn't just a school; it's a life-long brotherhood. For anyone facing a similar decision, let me be unequivocal: Choose Hampden-Sydney College. Trust me; you won't regret it.... Read 177 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 40%

• Net price $29,899

• SAT range 1040-1310

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  5,042 reviews

Freshman: George Mason is a very good college when it comes to academics. The professors are very good at teaching and are nice to their students. GMU is an amazing school for research. Additionally, the mix is an engineer's paradise with many tools and machines to use for free. The student life could have improved, but during weekdays you can find some events around the campus. Mason's student success coaching service is awesome. They are very caring and are always there when you need help with getting good grades in your classes. Athletics are decent as well. However, there is no football field. There is a football team, but it is not like your other major football universities. GMU's diversity is the best I have seen at any college. Many cultures at GMU can be observed and celebrated!... Read 5,042 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $18,479

• SAT range 1140-1350

• Wise, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  254 reviews

Freshman: I spent my Freshman year at UVA Wise from 2019-2020. The end tail was disrupted by the pandemic so classes went online, but I enjoyed my time here a lot! The professors I had clearly cared about the subjects they taught and their students, which made my time here special. You could find one-on-one time with professors for extra help and guidance, which is rare for college. The campus is smaller, but that meant it was easier to get to class in the morning. It also meant you were around the same people most of the time. All in all, I found if you put in the effort and work needed, you would do well. It was also really affordable compared to other colleges in VA.... Read 254 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $9,923

• SAT range 960-1160

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  8,360 reviews

Graduate Student: I have had a wonderful experience in the Counselor Education & Supervision PhD program at Liberty! My program started as intensive based, but because of the pandemic, we online met online. I loved the time we had in the intensives (week only in-class instruction each semester). I had fabulous professors that really focused on our strengths and built us up rather than tear us down. Don’t get me wrong, they were fair in their assessments of us as students. The program was rigorous, accredited, and focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Yes, it’s Christian based, but all are welcome and the focus is not shoving Christianity down someone’s throat or beating people over the head with the Bible till they believe. The program I was in was fair, objective, personal, and followed counseling ethics set forth by the American Counseling Association.... Read 8,360 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $29,913

• SAT range —

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  1,046 reviews

Junior: My experience at Regent University as a full-time online student has been phenomenal! The interactive coursework is engaging as it fosters intellectual growth and skill development. In the online setting, effective communication tools such as discussion forums and video conferences, facilitate meaningful interactions among students and instructors. Flexibility in scheduling allows students to balance academic persuits with other responsibilities, promoting a sense of autonomy and self-direction. Access to a diverse array of online resources, including digital libraries and multimedia content, enriches the learning experience and encourages exploration beyond the confines of he traditional classroom. Additionally, supportive faculty and staff who provide timely feedback and guidance contribute to a nurturing learning environment. Ultimately, a positive college experience, regardless of the mode of delivery, equips students with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to succeed.... Read 1,046 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 32%

• Net price $17,341

• SAT range 1030-1250

• Arlington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  922 reviews

Freshman: Great small university located just a few minutes away from Washington DC. The professor are kind and helpful, and since classes are small you are able to reach out for help whenever needed. It's small but close-knit and most people are really pleasant!... Read 922 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $24,664

• SAT range —

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  361 reviews

Sophomore: Eastern Mennonite University is a small liberal arts school, and most of its strengths and challenges come from this title. I have had a wonderful time interacting with professors and scheduling meetings 1-on-1 to talk about assignments and life in general. The opportunities to get involved in clubs and extracurriculars are extensive, and I have felt a general openness and optimism towards new ideas on campus. EMU's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee works very hard to listen to each other's needs and the needs of campus. Grants are distributed to students who want to make a difference, and present their proposals to the committee. Funding is a struggle at EMU, however. Because of its religious background, many alum donating money to the school are religious and sometimes unsupportive of the more progressive ideas and programs that are being put in place. There is also simply a smaller group of donors than a larger school, and so upkeep of older buildings is not maintained.... Read 361 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $23,783

• SAT range —

• Fredericksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.16 out of 5  1,312 reviews

Junior: For being a small division 3 school, UMW does a really great job at widening their campus to make the university feel so much bigger! I don’t feel like i’m back in high school, I see new faces everyday and get to learn about new classmates every once in a while. UMW is really special. Everyone that goes here has a great sense of pride for their university. As an athlete at this school, I feel like the one thing we could do to connect the community more is to try to close the gap between athletes and non-athletes. Sometimes there are circumstances where a social event is “athletes only”. In order for us to have a stronger community, the exclusion should be reduced.... Read 1,312 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $21,863

• SAT range 1170-1340

• Winchester, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  893 reviews

Junior: I moved from VT to VA for the SU Music Therapy program. I have never regretted that decision as I love every aspect of the school. Challenging but fun academics, good people and overall lots to do! Overall a great place to spend a very important four years of my life!... Read 893 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $26,143

• SAT range —

• Salem, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  770 reviews

Senior: Embarking on the journey of higher education as a first-generation college student at Roanoke College has been a transformative experience, marked by academic accomplishments, personal growth, and the discovery of my true passions. As a finance major with a solid 3.0 GPA, my time at Roanoke College has not only equipped me with the technical skills required in my field but has also provided a platform for holistic development. One of the defining aspects of my college experience has been the invaluable relationships forged with professors who have served not only as educators but as mentors and guides. The close-knit community at Roanoke College has allowed me to establish professional connections with faculty members who have played a crucial role in my academic journey.... Read 770 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $29,169

• SAT range 1070-1260

• Newport News, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,318 reviews

Freshman: I love the landscape and architecture of this campus, it makes me feel so peaceful. This school does an amazing job at making sure students feel right at home. I love how they have a campus police force that will walk you back to the dorm buildings if you feel unsafe walking alone. The food is incredible and the fast food restaurants on campus are perfect for those who'd like to eat something besides cafeteria food. CNU is a great school!... Read 1,318 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $23,287

• SAT range 1100-1290

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  720 reviews

Alum: I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Lynchburg. The small campus has such a homie feel. It is an extremely tight knit community. The small class sizes were perfect and promoted more student-professor interaction that I desired. Aside from the gorgeous campus, the city of Lynchburg is full of rich history and beautiful scenery to explore on the weekends.... Read 720 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $23,256

• SAT range 1000-1230

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  4,668 reviews

Sophomore: Honestly ODU is not as bad as some people make it out to be it’s all about where you go and who you surround yourself with! Everyone here is pretty nice, very accepting, and there’s so many people and so much to do that even if one thing isn’t for you there will be five new things for you to try! I will say even though the population is big you WILL bump into people you know— whether you want to or not. But on the plus side the campus is pretty and walkable, the system is easy to navigate, and most professors are pretty willing to work with you and be flexible if you have issues, concerns, or problems with work or attendance or really anything. It’s a great school with lots of resources for a good price, you just have to know how to access them to the fullest (most professors will provide links, sources, and phone numbers or buildings to go to for certain concerns).... Read 4,668 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $16,098

• SAT range 1090-1250

• Radford, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,665 reviews

Freshman: Radford is a really pleasant university! The campus is pretty and sized very conveniently. I can get everywhere within 10-15 minutes. I really enjoy the surrounding area, though if you don't have access to a car, it's hard to fully enjoy it. I'd also love more quality, healthy food variety on campus, but I make do.... Read 1,665 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $17,105

• SAT range 960-1160

• Danville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  365 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, I have had a wonderful experience at Averett University. Even though having only been there for three semesters, I feel like the on hands learning environment that is given to me has helped me further my knowledge, growth and overall passion about what I want to do after higher education. Not only has my education been impacted but also my growth as an athlete and leader has occurred at the university.... Read 365 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $23,781

• SAT range 850-1170

• Roanoke, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  561 reviews

Senior: I truly enjoyed my time at Hollins University, particularly engaging with close friends, professors, and an array of courses. While aspects of my time there were less than ideal, I don’t regret my time here!... Read 561 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $21,207

• SAT range 1070-1290

• Farmville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  1,217 reviews

Sophomore: Longwood is a great place for students who want a smaller campus and smaller classes! I love the scenery on campus and where its located. There aren't many big shopping areas around unless you would like to take a day trip to Richmond. The community in Longwood is great; I see a lot of familiar faces daily and its not too overwhelming, especially for the freshman. The classes are engaging and small, which helps some introverted or anxious people. Athletics are a big thing at Longwood. The athletes are given electric scooters to ride to classes.... Read 1,217 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $21,772

• SAT range 1020-1210