2024 Top Public Universities in Virginia

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  2,376 reviews

Alum: Overall, great education with some mishaps due to COVID and online learning. Positive atmosphere, very inclusive. I would like to see a change in how the grading system is designed - a-lot of my classes (mostly STEM) allowed students to fail and then curved everyones grades and I would rather the material be taught correctly and more comprehensively and have no curve needed at all. Loved the liberal arts classes I got to take! Lots of engaging discussions. The grounds around campus are absolutely beautiful and very well kept. There are tons of amazing places to study and relax.... Read 2,376 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $20,401

• SAT range 1380-1500

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,097 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 4,097 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $20,109

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,588 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 1,588 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $18,399

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  213 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 213 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $18,100

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,179 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 3,179 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $18,528

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,668 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 4,668 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $19,656

• SAT range 1070-1300

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  4,938 reviews

Freshman: Although my experience with George Mason University is still relatively early on, I can attest that GMU has thorough communication from not only their website, but with the academic advisor. The website is easy to navigate and inviting. We also have visited the campus on several occasions for a spring orientation and then the main freshman orientation event. Both orientation sessions were very organized from the beginning with what to expect before arriving until the completion of the event. During the orientation, we had the pleasure of meeting faculty and students who truly enjoyed their job of welcoming us to the university. We enjoyed the tour of the campus, housing and dining areas. All of the dining halls provided exceptional food variety and can say everything we ate was delicious! GMU has been provided us with nothing but stellar experiences despite the challenges of the ever changing post pandemic lifestyle on campus.... Read 4,938 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $18,841

• SAT range 1140-1350

• Wise, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  246 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 246 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $10,193

• SAT range 990-1230

• Fredericksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.14 out of 5  1,294 reviews

Senior: Atmosphere - A nice, friendly school with chill students and kind faculty Party - This is not a party school. This is a school for introverted nerds. Professors - Competent at what they do and will work with you to help you succeed. Tuition - Expensive. Apply EARLY to FASFA! Campus - Small, about 20 minute walk from each side. Very beautiful with nice classrooms. Not much to do on campus but there are ways to find entertainment through clubs and other activities. Dorms - Sardine box. Surrounding Area - A nice area, if you have a car, or don't mind taking the bus or walking about 30 minutes to historic downtown. Historic downtown is very nice. Tutoring - There are tutors available who will happily help you, but you need to schedule with them. Some students will agree to form a study group, some won't, really just depends. Remember: shy introverts. Health Services - Very good for what they are. You can walk to the local hospital.... Read 1,294 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $21,901

• SAT range 1130-1320

• Newport News, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,294 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 1,294 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $24,059

• SAT range 1110-1320

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  4,599 reviews

Alum: My overall experience at Old Dominion University was a very positive one. First, the my courses were interesting and focused on being applicable outside of the classroom. Second, the professors are both knowledgeable and helpful. They want to see you succeed and will help however they can. Third, the school promotes fantastic diversity. It acts as a safe environment for people from all backgrounds to express their personal beliefs and encourages dialogue between students. Fourth, the school has just finished a new football stadium. Athletics at ODU are a great time and while they might not be as big as some other universities, it acts as a real point of unification for students, alumni, faculty, and the local community. Finally, the student life at the school is whatever you want to make of it. If you want to be apart of Greek Life, there are tons of options for you. If you want to be involved in the local community or student affairs there is that too!... Read 4,599 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $17,254

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Radford, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,646 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 1,646 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $16,835

• SAT range 950-1150

• Farmville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,178 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 1,178 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $21,166

• SAT range 1030-1170

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  1,542 reviews

Freshman: Norfolk State is a public university that offers 31 bachelor’s degree programs to nearly 5,000 undergraduates in Virginia. All first-year students are required to attend the Spartan Seminar Series, which helps ease the transition to college learning through courses that delve into academic discipline-based concepts, critical thinking, and social science research methodologies. Other available resources include tutoring and supplemental instruction via the Student Success Center, a Writing Center, and the use of microcredential digital badges, which identify achievements in certain competencies and professional skills through activities and achievements. First-year students have the option to join... Read 1,542 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $12,264

• SAT range 860-1050

• Petersburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  1,333 reviews

Senior: So far, VSU has given me the best experience I could ask for. I am a rising senior and because of VSU I was able to excel in my course, join wonderful organizations, and meet wonderful people. Due to COVID-19, it was a hard time in the beginning of the pandemic for everyone, especially me. But, Virginia State University, provided safe counselling for their students, safe activity's we could do on and off campus, and still provide the best education virtually at the time. This school has given me every opportunity any college student or future college student they could ask for. I recommend this school for everyone!... Read 1,333 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $16,770

• SAT range 830-1040

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  28 reviews

Sophomore: Thus far experience at ODU has been great! And I am truly learning a lot about myself and the different things that interest me within academics. My online experience has also been challenging yet manageable and my professors have been very supportive and helpful with anything that I want to know or need assistance with. I am currently active duty military and ODU is very military friendly as well. One of my favorite things about going to ODU is the fact that despite me being an online student, I still have full access to the main campus in Norfolk, which is absolutely amazing! Hopefully, if everything goes well I plan on obtaining my bachelors degree at ODU as well as my Master’s Degree. Right now I am currently taking an Art class and a math class for the summer and even though the classes just began I’m finding that I am enjoying my art class more than I expected which brings me back to the overall positive experience that I am having at ODU by finding new things that interest me.... Read 28 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —

• Roanoke, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  4 reviews

Junior: The dedication that the professors have to teaching their students at RUC is wonderful! As a Biomedical Sciences student, I have had many great opportunities and have been involved in extracurriculars and research. My mentors are always happy to watch me grow and learn every day. I have learned to become more of a leader and a teammate at the same time. Because the RUC campus is not very big, I have been able to make close friends and have been able to see them every week. It is fun to say you have friends from the nursing program, respiratory therapy program, EMT program, and more! The university also provides exciting events and has many resources. I have loved my time at RUC. I think it is a great place to pursue your education if you are interested in the medical field.... Read 4 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $30,679

• SAT range 910-1110