Southern Virginia University vs Virginia Military Institute

Buena Vista, VA — Lexington, VA

Metric
Southern Virginia University
Buena Vista, VA
Virginia Military Institute
Lexington, VA
Location Buena Vista, VA Lexington, VA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 936 1,527
Acceptance Rate 96.4% 71.3%
SAT Average 1,244
In-State Tuition $21,280 $21,046
Out-of-State Tuition $21,280 $52,638
Avg Net Price $22,213 $17,113
Median Debt at Graduation $24,224 $22,996
4-Year Graduation Rate 36.0% 78.9%
Retention Rate 74.0% 81.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $36,988 $63,545
Median Earnings (10 yr) $50,002 $77,369
Loan Repayment Rate 47300.0% 46100.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Southern Virginia University
Buena Vista, VA
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Virginia Military Institute
Lexington, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Southern Virginia University and Virginia Military Institute compare?
Southern Virginia University (Buena Vista, VA) has an acceptance rate of 96.4%, in-state tuition of $21,280, and median 10-year earnings of $50,002. Virginia Military Institute (Lexington, VA) has an acceptance rate of 71.3%, in-state tuition of $21,046, and median 10-year earnings of $77,369.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Southern Virginia University or Virginia Military Institute?
Virginia Military Institute graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,369 vs $50,002. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Southern Virginia University or Virginia Military Institute?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Virginia Military Institute is the more affordable option at $17,113 per year versus $22,213.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Virginia Military Institute has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 78.9% vs 36.0%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025