2023 Best College Athletics in Virginia

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  2,350 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Virginia is a great school! There is a beautiful campus containing many of the brightest, most optimistic, and welcoming minds in the world. After finishing up my first year "On-Grounds," as all Wahoos call it, I have left more impressed than I came in. Professors and students alike extend themselves as learning resources and don't mind the extra effort to help a student who seeks it. As an African-American student though, I would love to see the diversity rate continue to trend upwards as the semesters and school years go by. UVA has a welcoming campus but at times, I feel that the "Unite the Right Rally" tragedy from 2017 still scares away students of color and other minority groups due to the false idea that UVA "isn't a protected campus."... Read 2,350 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $20,401

• SAT range 1380-1500

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  3,144 reviews

Senior: James Madison University is a big school with a small school feel- wherever you are on campus there will be a new face but you'll probably see someone you know as well! The professors want to know you and help you accomplish your goals. The school is absolutely breathtaking and the people are super friendly. There are lots of different options to major in and the resources available at this school are phenomenal. This school does a wonderful job of preparing its students for post-grad life and has a great reputation for getting a job! The school spirit at JMU is really what drew me here in the first place. Current students and alumni are proud to be Dukes and they look out for each other when hiring. We also love our sports, our Marching Royal Dukes (MRDs), and supporting different events in and around the JMU/Harrisonburg community. Great outdoors and delicious eateries, breweries, wineries, and coffee shops nearby! Best school in the world! Go Dukes!... Read 3,144 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $18,528

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,066 reviews

Junior: Virginia Tech is a wonderful academic institution. Where most schools excel in either academics or the college experience, VT is strong in both areas. The surrounding area is also very involved with Virginia Tech. While I have been at multiple colleges, I have returned to VT to finish my bachelor's and complete my master's degree! Take one visit and you will understand why everyone is so proud to be a Hokie. Be sure to also check out the dining halls. Virginia Techs' dining halls are incredible with the friendliest staff you could imagine! The culture at Virginia Tech is Work hard play hard! Students are self-motivated and are always willing to lend a helping hand. Come Friday night, the campus turns into the ultimate social hub. Most classmates of mine only left campus during the holiday breaks, as VT has everything you could want or need while on campus!... Read 4,066 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $20,109

• SAT range 1210-1410

• University Of Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  759 reviews

Freshman: My experience at the University of Richmond has been one filled with incredibly understanding and motivating professors. Since my first semester I found that my mental health and well being in general has been put at the forefront and prioritized with accommodations regarding course work. There are a variety of activities, clubs, and sports that radiate inclusive and encouraging energy to any and all that join. There is constantly something to do on campus ranging from acapella performances , day of the dead celebrations, haunted houses, mechanical spider riding, just about anything! The resources on campus are also endless. There is a highly vocalized opportunity to engage in research alongside professors, and career services that help launch well prepared students into internships. Something that I would like to change around campus would perhaps be an upgrade in security. This meaning more patrol around the entrances of campus simply because it is so easy access to the public.... Read 759 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $28,881

• SAT range 1280-1460

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  7,929 reviews

Sophomore: Liberty is better than I could have imagined. Beginning with the tour my family and I went on during my senior year of high school, you could tell the people on campus really care about the students and want what's best for them. all of this was further confirmed my first year on campus. The campus layout is easy to understand, dorms are great, the res life people are good at what they do, safety on campus is pretty good, we have our own police department, and the officers are very friendly, but efficient at their jobs. food is better than many other places, however there are some slight issues. Curriculum is good, and most professors are very competent and willing to help you as you learn.... Read 7,929 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $27,891

• SAT range 1040-1250

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  4,547 reviews

Freshman: Attending Old Dominion University was quite the experience. My advisor was awesome - he was always readily available, and took an interest in me as a person, not just another student. I was an online student, so all of my courses were online. The professors are very knowledgeable in their chosen field, and provided me with invaluable feedback to help me grow personally and professionally. While some professors limited the amount of books for classes, or offered online articles so that students would not have to purchase books, others required that students purchase several books that were hardly read. Overall, my experience here was a very positive one, and required an amount of work that made me proud to graduate from this school. Having a Bachelor's Degree can certainly help individuals obtain employment with a better salary. Now that I am in graduate school, I can see just how much this school assisted in preparing me for the demands of such study.... Read 4,547 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $17,254

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,608 reviews

Freshman: Virginia Commonwealth University is a great school for those interested in the arts. I'm currently enrolled in the Art Foundation program and I've had an amazing experience. There's a wide variety of courses you can take, I even had the chance to take a class in glass blowing! There's a wide diversity in students here allowing you to learn from different perspectives. The only complaint I'd have for the university is that its dining options aren't very inclusive for those with limited diets. I'm vegan and I have trouble ordering from the on-campus food options. However, there's so much food to explore here in Richmond itself so it's not a huge let down.... Read 4,608 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $19,656

• SAT range 1070-1300

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  1,524 reviews

Sophomore: I have had a great two years at Norfolk state. I’ve learned my best years academically has been spring semester. I love everything about Norfolk state only thing I would change is housing.... Read 1,524 reviews

• grade C

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $12,264

• SAT range 860-1050

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  715 reviews

Sophomore: As a student who completed their first year at Virginia Wesleyan University, I would say that my experience was great. I felt as though this school was exactly what I was looking for, and more. The campus is quite small, and very private. I appreciate this since this allows me to get to class on time, as well as not have to worry about who is on campus. The staff have been wonderful, especially the professors. While there were some I did not love, others were extremely helpful and tentative when addressing students. I am so excited to start my second year!... Read 715 reviews

• grade C

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $22,584

• SAT range 1150-1380

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  212 reviews

Senior: As a female student, I overall enjoy my experience at VMI. I understand our school gets a bad reputation, but we all work to irradicate any prejudice or injustice we see. VMI prepares me for any life path I may choose, whether academically or as an adult going into the real world.... Read 212 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $18,100

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  4,880 reviews

Senior: My time at George Mason University has been truly remarkable. The faculty members at Mason are not only highly accomplished experts in their respective fields but also passionate educators dedicated to nurturing student success. Mason's strong focus on research and innovation sets it apart as a leading institution. The university actively encourages undergraduate involvement in research projects, fostering a culture of intellectual exploration and discovery. This emphasis on research equips students with invaluable skills and experiences that are highly valued in today's competitive job market. The exceptional faculty, stunning campus, research-focused environment, commitment to diversity, and ample extracurricular opportunities have contributed to my growth and academic success. I am immensely grateful for the invaluable experiences and supportive community that Mason has provided me during my college years.... Read 4,880 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $18,841

• SAT range 1140-1350

• Radford, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,637 reviews

Senior: I have a love/hate relationship with radford university. I feel that they have plenty of activities and clubs for students to do and join but they lack the help we as young adults need when it comes to finances. Plenty of students look at the school as money hungry and I would love for that narrative to change.... Read 1,637 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $16,835

• SAT range 950-1150

• Farmville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  1,171 reviews

Alum: I give this university 5 stars. Yes, I will admit it is not a perfect university but what is? It is a smaller university so you get to know everyone better including both your professors and the student body which makes it easier to get help. Being a number or being in a class with hundreds of students, you will not get that here unlike other universities. Longwood is a close-knit community. Everyone is nice here. However, I do wish there was more to offer such as a football program and more variety of food options both on-campus and in Farmville. You can tell the university is trying to expand with the Joan Perry Brock Center for basketball/other events and other projects planned. I recommend they offer more majors to have more options to choose from too. Overall, great school, and hope people choose Longwood University!... Read 1,171 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $21,166

• SAT range 1030-1170

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.31 out of 5  532 reviews

Other: Virginia Union is a great institution. The financial aid process after admission is a little rocky thought. I had a hard time getting information regarding my award package and not a lot of response when I had questions. The admissions people are very responsive, the financial aid people not so much.... Read 532 reviews

• grade C minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $16,068

• SAT range 760-940

• Ashland, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  513 reviews

Freshman: R-MC is a great school to learn and grow. My experience with the professors has been more than what I expected. They work hard to make sure each student feels comfortable in asking questions or just the material in general. I also love the community and how they make everyone feel like they are home.... Read 513 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $26,794

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,567 reviews

Sophomore: I sincerely enjoyed the experience, most teachers were incredibly understanding as long as you made sure to communicate. The social scene was a little small but you always find your group.... Read 1,567 reviews

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $18,399

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  703 reviews

Sophomore: I am in love with the small campus atmosphere, individual attention from professors who care about you as a person, and the ease to get involved in the campus community. There is genuinely a place for everyone and so much support so long as you reach out for it!... Read 703 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $27,305

• SAT range 970-1170

• Hampton, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.24 out of 5  2,118 reviews

Freshman: I enjoyed Hampton! One of the things I liked about Hampton would be the scenery, it is a beautiful clean campus. Another thing I liked about Hampton would be how efficient the staff was, they are very quick with their work and almost always have an answer to which they deliver in a clear concise manner. I also liked the social scene as there were always activities and clubs I could participate in no matter the time. With all the things I did like there are things I would like to change. One of the things I would like to change would be the lunchroom food, the food is not the best and they did have good food Fall semester of 2022. Another thing I would like to see change would be the cleanliness of the dorms, more so the dorm I stayed in which was Harkness Hall. The dorm is not unsanitary however there are times when it comes close to reaching that point. Other than the two things I would like to see change I did enjoy my time at Hampton and do plan on going back for my Sophomore year.... Read 2,118 reviews

• grade C

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $33,204

• SAT range 980-1120

• Bluefield, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  207 reviews

Freshman: Great Staff. Great students. Great campus. The staff are always helpful and professional. The facilities and campus are well taken care of. The student activities are always fun. The sports programs rival much larger campuses.... Read 207 reviews

• grade C

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $18,726

• SAT range 900-1070

• Wise, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  244 reviews

Junior: Academically, the college lacks consistency. Certain programs, such as general education requirements, lack substantial teaching and learning. However, other areas of academics, for example, Biology, are vast and difficult. This disconnect in academics negatively effects my peers and I’s ability to preform consistently academically as-well. The smaller size of campus and student body aids to facilitate a familial and belonging feeling. Despite the low number of students, social events are happening frequently to foster community. I have learned factually, socially, and internally with my time at UVA-Wise, so overall the experience has been beneficial. Issues with the school would include a lack of diversity, small local community outside the campus, and fluctuations in academics. However, with adversity comes resilience and ability to foster change.... Read 244 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $10,193

• SAT range 990-1230

• Newport News, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,281 reviews

Sophomore: My favorite thing about CNU is the small class sizes. Most of the classes have an upper limit of about 30 students. They do have a few courses that take place in a large lecture hall, but they have a cut-off of about 100 students. Most students will only take on average 1-3 of these courses. The teachers are always willing to answer questions and all professors have an open-dorm policy which means that they have certain hours during the week where students can show up to ask questions. Every teacher I have had so far is also willing to meet outside of these hours. The campus is beautiful and it takes at most 15 minutes to get to a class depending on where you are on campus. During freshmen year I could get to class in 5 minutes from my dorm. The dorms are decently sized and get better as you move up to the next level each year. Each dorm gets its own bathroom and shower. The dining halls are amazing and there are plenty of places to go to within walking distance to eat if you want to.... Read 1,281 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $24,059

• SAT range 1110-1320

• Danville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  358 reviews

Sophomore: Love this school! The professors are great and the class sizes are small. If you want to go to a school where you aren't just a number, go to Averett. They have so many resources for students and everyone wants you to succeed.... Read 358 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $22,674

• SAT range 910-1100

• Buena Vista, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  402 reviews

Sophomore: Southern Virginia University is AMAZING. The staff and faculty there really care about you and your goals. Even if they have no connection for you, they will always sit down with you and talk about what ambitions you have. The campus life is always doing some activity, so you are never bored and are always meeting new people and learning about their experiences. While Southern Virginia is small, that’s the thing that sets it apart from other schools. With small classes, professors can focus on individual needs better, helping students achieve goals they never imagined. It truly is the place for love!... Read 402 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $22,951

• SAT range 980-1200

• Ferrum, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  379 reviews

Junior: The instructors are helpful and go above and beyond. They will take the time to work individually with a student that has questions or needs help. The students are friendly and down to earth. There are alot of sports you can participate in and there are alot of activities on campus for the students. Because there are not alot of things to do off campus, the school has activities to keep the students engaged. the financial aid office and the student accts office are also very friendly and very willing to help with questions. They make appointments if they are busy and their customer services is awesome!... Read 379 reviews

• grade C

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $22,278

• SAT range 920-1180

• Hampden-sydney, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  163 reviews

Alum: I loved my time at Hampden-Sydney College. As a full time student I had the time to participate in Division III athletics and work a part time job, all while creating friendships with my brothers, some of which have lasted after graduation. Hampden Sydney is a school that not only challenges you in your academic learning, but also challenges you to evaluate your views of the world and think critically. Hampden-Sydney's motto is to "create good men and good citizens", and it certainly lives up to said mantra. The only things I would criticize would be the infamously horrible food from Thompson Hospitality in the commons, which is jokingly referred to as "the Moans" (use your imagination to figure out why), and the quality of some of the older dorms. However, I wouldn't trade my 4 years at HSC for the world.... Read 163 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $28,679

• SAT range 1080-1260