2024 Best Value Colleges in Virginia

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  464 reviews

Other: Washington and Lee University (W&L) is truly one of the premier liberal arts colleges in the U.S. Niche ranks W&L higher than the famous northeast liberal arts colleges! Most notably, Washington Monthly ranks W&L as the 4th best liberal arts college - AHEAD of even Swarthmore, Williams, Amherst, etc.! Why? The personal attention students receive at W&L is actually incredible. To that, the training students receive is among the best in the world, combining an emphasis on leadership and community with elite academics. From this, W&L's shockingly powerful and close-knit alumni network is also incredible. W&L infamous Greek scene is also coming into a new age. The school is diversifying its student population in a fair, inclusive manner, which is loosening the dominance of Greek life, while broadening its social scene. Take a look at the schools leadership team to understand how and why. They're modernizing, while preserving the positive aspects of W&L's distinct student life.... Read 464 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $26,063

• SAT range 1410-1530

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  2,387 reviews

Alum: It feels like a lifetime ago that I was in Cville (class of 2010), but wanted to include my thoughts if helpful! I was an out-of-state athlete and was between UVA and and Princeton when deciding on colleges. As a now 35-year-old professional I can honestly say I have ZERO regrets on my decision because I feel that UVA checked the box for literally everything I could ask for in an ideal college experience - academics, history, social life, opportunities for involvement…and in terms of athletics feel that it is often overlooked the incredible amount of National Championships that we have won over the years (special shout out to Women’s Swimming!). I also felt that the size of the student body was a perfect balance of always having the opportunity to be meeting new people while also consistently running into familiar faces around grounds. Having been in the workforce for 12+ years now I can assure you a UVA degree is incredibly well respected and will take you far. Go Hoos!... Read 2,387 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $20,401

• SAT range 1380-1500

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  214 reviews

Junior: Virginia Military Institute offers a very unique college experience in that it provides a structured environment for anyone to be able to succeed. There is an incredible amount of leadership opportunities for everyone to be able to help the Corps function as a team. While the school can seem overwhelming at times due to strict standards and regulations, even that stress can be a positive learning experience as it teaches crucial lessons such as time management and communication skills. These skills will increase in your time at VMI. Initially, I was not a fan of the way things were run and how much my day was planned for me, but then I learned how to incorporate my own schedule with things that I wanted to do and achieve into the overarching schedule of VMI (which can seem al encompassing). Overall, VMI is a great place for anyone that is up for a challenge and is wishing to grow their leadership abilities.... Read 214 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $18,100

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,115 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Virginia Tech has been outstanding! I finished high school one semester early and earned credit for one semester's worth of college through my local community college. My coursework has been tough but I have persevered with the help of my professors. In addition, the campus is beautiful and the students are friendly. I have enjoyed the campus gym, attended career fairs, played intramural sports, gone on a retreat out of state and even participated in a Business Club Pitch Contest that was way outside of my comfort zone. Failure is not an option- I will succeed! I am from Southeast Newport News, where I've seen too many people make decisions that negatively impact their lives. The housing crisis for upperclassmen needs to change. I would love for more on campus housing to be available for upperclassmen. If upperclassmen are not able to secure housing in Living and Learning communities, the only other option is to live off campus.... Read 4,115 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $20,109

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,594 reviews

Alum: Graduated in 2011, was the best college experience I could have hoped for! Made lifelong friends and discovered passion for history. I interned at Colonial Williamsburg and had some amazing public history courses where we traveled to historic sites and discussed primary sourced (and ate bbq!). Such a perfect campus size, it felt larger than other liberal arts schools but still super safe. I walked home alone at 3 am often. Was not part of the party scene, but was super social and my freshman dorm was where I made most of my friends. If I had one thing the criticize it would be support in finding a job post-graduation (this may have changed in the 10+ yrs since graduation). You have to be proactive about using the career center. They have a brand new online social community that I joined as an alumni and I think this will be a huge help to recent grads.... Read 1,594 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $18,399

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,190 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 3,190 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $18,528

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  4,958 reviews

Freshman: As a freshman at George Mason University, I am impressed with the vibrant academic atmosphere and welcoming community. The faculty here is dedicated and passionate, always encouraging critical thinking and growth. The diverse student body fosters an inclusive environment, allowing for enriching discussions and broadening my perspectives. The campus facilities are top-notch, providing excellent resources for both studying and extracurricular activities. The blend of rigorous academics and a supportive network of peers makes this university an ideal place to thrive and succeed. I am excited for the endless opportunities and the promising future that GMU promises!... Read 4,958 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $18,841

• SAT range 1140-1350

• University Of Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  766 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 766 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $28,881

• SAT range 1280-1460

• Wise, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  247 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 247 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $10,193

• SAT range 990-1230

• Arlington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  869 reviews

Junior: I am thrilled to share my experience as a student at MU. From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I knew I had found the perfect institution for my educational aspirations. MU is an extraordinary place that truly embodies excellence in education, fostering personal growth, and nurturing a vibrant community. One of the standout features of MU is its exceptional faculty. The profs are not only highly knowledgeable and accomplished in their fields but also deeply passionate about teaching. They go above and beyond to create an engaging and intellectually stimulating environment, encouraging students to think critically and explore their full potential. The dedication of the faculty to student success is evident in their accessibility and willingness to provide guidance and support both inside and outside the class. MU offers a wide array of clubs, org, and extrac activities that cater to various interests, allowing students to pursue their passions and develop leadership skills.... Read 869 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $26,717

• SAT range 970-1170

• Radford, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,648 reviews

Senior: This university has a beautiful campus and solid programs that strive to teach and promote curiousity and success. Overall, my experience at Radford has been positive and one that will help influence my life and career decisions. However, there are specific changes that I would reccomend for the future: the housing process, safety on campus, and being heard by the people in charge. The housing process has a few too many hoops to jump through and getting a desirable placement is almost impossible. Furthermore, issues with roommates or suitemates are never handled correctly as a result of RA and RD incompetence. On campus, safety is felt throughout, but a lack of information in unsafe situations leaves everyone with too many questions than answers. The people in positions of power in this campus do a great deal to be accessable, but do not take the suggestions or complaints given to heart. Not enough to instill a feeling of satisfaction in those who have genuine problems.... Read 1,648 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $16,835

• SAT range 950-1150

• Farmville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,200 reviews

Freshman: The campus is beautiful and well maintained. While the school dates to 1839, the campus has a "new feel". Longwood's staff is welcoming and engaged. Admissions, Housing, Financial Aid, Advisors, and Deans as well as professors all made me feel welcome. I've enjoyed meeting other students and getting involved in clubs and on-campus organizations. I am part of the Cormier Honors College which provides additional perks and benefits, as well as positive academic challenges. Dorms are air-conditioned, but not always cool. Common areas are nice! Some dorms have thicker walls while others have thinner walls, but some have newer and some have older bathrooms, overall, everything in the dorms is in good shape. I wish there were more "freshly cooked" items in the dining hall. For example, I love the omelets made to order, but scrambled eggs aren't great. I love the "all you can eat" option and meal exchange program! I love that there are fun and memorable traditions!... Read 1,200 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $21,166

• SAT range 1030-1170

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,687 reviews

Sophomore: Virginia Commonwealth University has been an adventure as a campus and university to learn under. The main aspects that differentiate VCU from most other universities in Virginia are the urban landscape, art forward movement, and the progressiveness of the university itself. I like the arty feel of the campus and university and I feel much more comfortable in this urban setting rather than the rural campuses like UVA. The campus can be accessed easily and is also very walkable. The main issues are the traffic and homeless people, but I don't find it much as a problem if you plan ahead, are generally cognizant, and kind. The programs and classes are exciting and not too unbearable. Though, I am a bit biased because my major is in psychology and I was not able to take most of the General Education classes due to my pre-existing credits. The professors are also generally great. A select few are unlikable to all and there are many instructors that cater to different learning styles.... Read 4,687 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $19,656

• SAT range 1070-1300

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  360 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 360 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $23,936

• SAT range 1040-1590

• Hampden-sydney, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  164 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 164 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $28,679

• SAT range 1080-1260

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  1,015 reviews

Sophomore: Regent University exceeded my expectations with the content in the online biblical courses that was so insightful, and detailed surrounding the time that the Bible was actually written. I enjoyed the interactions with professors and my classmates. Overall Regent has the best online experience as navigating blackboard was easy, and communication tools were very effective! My professors usually responded the same day or the next day with answers to my questions. I absolutely loved the online courses at Regent. Also, my counselor often checked in to see how I was doing, to let me know if there was something they needed, and to let me know when I could choose more classes, unusually nice of them. Lastly, next semester I will be taking courses on campus in which I am looking forward to engaging. Regent University was a great choice of schools, and I am humbled by the experience thus far. I know that the campus will provide rich memories for my collegiate experience.... Read 1,015 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $16,579

• SAT range 960-1230

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  4,618 reviews

Junior: So far everything has been great! I love how they offer so much for the students to keep them busy with groups and extra activities, volunteer opportunities, programs to help with leadership growth, there is something for everyone! The events are fun and engaging as well! Not to mention the SWAG! Diversity and inclusion must have been invented here! Plenty of dining variety on campus and nearby as well. Safe campus environment, small urban city with plenty of historical local landmarks nearby. I love all my classes! I only wish that the catalog would not show classes that are not available!... Read 4,618 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $17,254

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Winchester, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  883 reviews

Graduate Student: I received my Masters in Education and a Graduate Certificate from SU. I had a wonderful experience; my professors were knowledgeable, helpful, and very personable. My classes were focused, and really helped me make strides in my professional competency. Personally, I have made many lifelong friends at SU, and there are always tons of activities for student life. I can’t wait to start my Doctorate in Pharmacy Studies at Shenandoah!... Read 883 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $29,077

• SAT range 1000-1200

• Emory, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  258 reviews

Sophomore: I love E&H! It's set in a beautiful mountain location, in close driving distance from anything a college student could need (Walmart and Starbucks) and offers a close-knit community where I feel safe and connected.... Read 258 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $19,797

• SAT range 960-1150

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  708 reviews

Alum: University of Lynchburg is a lovely small to mid-size college with beautiful scenery and exceptional staff members, professors, and programs. I was able to connect more personally with my professors than I would have if I attended a larger college. One of the issues I had as a commuter student was an overall lack of connection to other students and peers. Although the school held various commuter student events, it was hard to make friends as I was not seeing others as frequently. I felt a general sense of loneliness and isolation, and ended up graduating without making any deep or meaningful connections. Although it was due to my own personal circumstances and faults, I wish the school would have done a better job of reaching out to students who felt alone or were struggling with other issues. I feel a lot of my mental health struggles went unnoticed by professors. A monthly wellness check would have been a good program to implement.... Read 708 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $27,305

• SAT range 970-1170

• Newport News, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,301 reviews

Senior: CNU has a wonderful variety of classes! I will say not all of the professors are the greatest, as some are very old school and some really would be better not teaching freshmen or sophomores, (due to them trying to teach us at a grad student level which is what they are likely used to), but I have had many wonderful professors as well! The science building is so clean and has very up to date equipment. The campus is very close together so going from class to class isn't too much of a hike.... Read 1,301 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $24,059

• SAT range 1110-1320

• Fredericksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.15 out of 5  1,300 reviews

Sophomore: The college has been a great experience as my beginner school, i have taken amazing courses that brought along even more amazing professors and experiences. The community that the school comes with stands strong with the reputation. They are a very connected school making sure that any student is involved. My journey is going very smooth with some hurdles, however, even with those hurdles i have great counselling and classmates that make sure i am always returning to the smooth sailing. As school to achieve my bachelors i am certain that the university was the right choice for me to achieve that goal!... Read 1,300 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $21,901

• SAT range 1130-1320

• Danville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  360 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 360 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $22,674

• SAT range 910-1100

• Ashland, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  521 reviews

Sophomore: There are so many wonderful things about RMC, the small school feel, friendly students, many different clubs and activities on campus, and access to professors and research opportunities. Ashland is a safe town and you can walk for food or just to check out the holiday decorations or small shops nearby. I gave four stars instead of five for two reason. One that is consistently mentioned here is the food. I hope that when the contract is up with the current company, the college changes many things about dining. There is a lack of lower priced options in dining plans for on campus students, some have cars and prefer to only eat on campus about half the time. Second, there were times last year I felt overwhelmed by work. I was working sometimes almost constantly, there was no work-life balance. I think/hope the message was received by admin and because I think this year is a lot better. Overall, a great school, great financial aid, you’ll be glad if you decide to come here!... Read 521 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $26,794

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Staunton, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  632 reviews

Junior: As a transfer student interested in studying to become a BCBA, Mary Baldwin is the perfect fit for me! I needed something that I can do all online because I work full time. Plus, I wanted a college that would take all my transfer classes. Not only does MBU do that, they allow me to fast track my master's degree by taking and applying undergraduate classes to the graduate curriculum. The staff is super helpful and the website is easy to understand. I'm so grateful I have found this school!... Read 632 reviews

• grade C

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,525

• SAT range —