So, you’re on the hunt for the cheapest colleges in Virginia? Smart move. Why saddle yourself with student debt when you can get a stellar education at a fraction of the price? Let’s dig into some of Virginia’s most affordable colleges that prove you don’t need to pay Ivy League prices for a top-notch education.
- Virginia State University (VSU)
- Norfolk State University (NSU)
- Radford University
- George Mason University (GMU)
- University of Virginia (UVA)
- The Average Cost of College in Virginia
- 10 Smart Strategies to Score Scholarships and Save Big in College
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
5 Cheapest Colleges in Virginia
1. Virginia State University (VSU)
Location: Petersburg, Virginia
Tuition: $6,452 per year (in-state)
Acceptance rate: 37%
Virginia State University is like your favorite diner: it’s humble, it’s affordable, and it serves up exactly what you need without any pretense. This HBCU is all about giving students a chance to shine. With an average GPA of 3.0, SAT score of 970, and ACT score of 18, VSU welcomes students who are ready to hustle—no 4.0 and 1600 required.
For out-of-state students, tuition is $18,283 per year, which is still competitive compared to similar institutions nationwide. Whether you’re from Virginia or beyond, VSU is one of the cheapest colleges in Virginia, keeping costs manageable while delivering a quality education.
Got money stress? VSU’s got you covered. The Trojan Opportunity Program offers free tuition and fees for low-income Virginia students. And if you’re rocking good grades, the Presidential Scholarship could be your golden ticket. Agriculture majors? You might snag extra USDA scholarships because apparently, farming is both cool and well-funded.
VSU takes pride in its 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of just 20 students. And with 120+ clubs and organizations and 1,300 study abroad opportunities, there’s never a dull moment on campus. Plus, if you’re an athlete or a fan, you’ll love the school’s 17+ NCAA Division II sports teams.
VSU’s campus is the perfect mash-up of historic charm and modern chill. Imagine strolling past stately brick buildings or lounging on green lawns between classes. And when you’re itching for city life, Richmond is just 30 minutes away, close enough for some weekend fun but far enough that your GPA stays intact.
As one of the cheapest colleges in Virginia, VSU is definitely one of the top choices. Because where else can you get a quality education, financial support, and a community that feels like family without emptying your savings account?
2. Norfolk State University (NSU)
Location: Norfolk, Virginia
Tuition: $3,038 per semester (in-state)
Acceptance rate: 89%
Norfolk State University is like the effortlessly cool friend who’s into everything—STEM, arts, community service—you name it. For admissions, NSU keeps it straightforward: a student with at least a 2.3 (weighted) high school GPA and a minimum test score of 880 SAT or 17 ACT is eligible for consideration. They’re looking for students with drive, not perfection.
For out-of-state students, tuition is $8,789 per semester, which makes NSU a top choice among the cheapest colleges in Virginia regardless of where you’re coming from. In fact, NSU’s tuition costs remain the lowest among public universities in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
NSU has the NSU Presidential Scholarship for top-notch students, need-based aid for those who qualify, and even a special boost for STEM majors. Plus, federal work-study programs let you earn while you learn (and maybe avoid those instant ramen-only weeks).
NSU’s campus is buzzing with energy. You’ve got theater performances, live music, and students debating over whether Norfolk’s waterfront or its food trucks are the best part of the city. Spoiler alert: it’s a tie. And when you’re done exploring campus, Norfolk’s vibrant arts scene and beaches are just waiting for you.
NSU is undoubtedly one of the best choices among the cheapest colleges in Virginia. They understand that affordable education should come with perks like great vibes, solid academics, and a city where you’ll never run out of things to do.
3. Radford University
Location: Radford, Virginia
Tuition: $8,528 per year (in-state)
Acceptance rate: 91%
Radford University is the college equivalent of your outdoorsy bestie: always up for an adventure and surprisingly grounded. As one of the cheapest colleges in Virginia, Radford attracts students who know how to balance work and play, with admitted students averaging GPAs of 3.41.
For out-of-state students, tuition is $21,166 per year, which is still a competitive price for the quality of education and resources you’ll receive. If you’re an in-state student saving big or an out-of-state student investing wisely, Radford is one of the best choices among the cheapest colleges in Virginia.
More than 80% of Radford University students receive some form of grant, loan, employment assistance or other type of financial aid. And the real MVP? Radford’s Highlander Distinction Program, swooping in to save the day with financial aid that’s based on both need and merit.
Got a knack for nursing, business, or education? Departmental scholarships could shave thousands off your tuition. And don’t forget federal grants and loans, they’re all part of the package to make sure your bank account survives college.
Radford is tucked away in the picturesque New River Valley, so if you’re into hiking, kayaking, or just pretending you’re the star of a nature documentary, this is your place. The campus vibe is chill but tight-knit, so you’ll never feel like just another face in the crowd.
If you’re looking for an affordable education with a side of mountain views and endless outdoor activities, Radford is one of the cheapest colleges in Virginia that should top your list.
4. George Mason University (GMU)
Location: Fairfax, Virginia
Tuition: $5,196 per semester (in-state)
Acceptance rate: 89%
George Mason University is the “big city dreams, suburban budget” option. As one of the cheapest colleges in Virginia, it’s ambitious, connected, and just a metro ride away from Washington, D.C., aka the land of internships and opportunity.
The middle 50% of accepted students have cumulative GPAs ranging from 3.3 to 3.9 on a weighted 4.0 scale, which makes it a school that values both academic rigor and potential. And for those who break into a cold sweat at the mention of standardized tests, good news: GMU is test-optional, so your SAT or ACT scores aren’t a dealbreaker.
For out-of-state students, tuition is $17,430 per semester for a flat rate covering 12–15 credits. If you’re planning to go above 15 credits, you’ll pay an additional $1,452.50 per credit. For in-state students, that extra-credit cost is a much more wallet-friendly $433 per credit. Translation? GMU offers a solid deal for those sticking within the credit cap but has options for the overachievers too.
GMU knows you’re aiming high, so they offer the Mason Merit Award for strong academic performance and the coveted University Scholars Program, which covers full tuition, room, and board. Throw in federal grants and state aid, and you’ve got a recipe for making GMU surprisingly affordable.
Fairfax offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful campus where you can focus and easy access to D.C. when you want to explore museums, grab a bite from a food truck, or network your way to your dream job. GMU also has top-tier programs in computer science, public policy, and engineering, making it a launching pad for big career moves.
If you want one of the cheapest colleges in Virginia that gives you real-world opportunities without sending you into real-world debt, GMU should be one of your best bets.
5. University of Virginia (UVA)
Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
Tuition: $18,593 per year on average (in-state)
Acceptance rate: 16.3%
The University of Virginia is like the overachiever at your high school reunion: a little flashy, a little prestigious, but still totally approachable. With a legacy of excellence and a price tag that feels more like a public school than an Ivy League institution, UVA is the school that delivers big time for in-state students.
The middle 50% of accepted students typically have SAT scores in the 1400–1540 range and ACT scores between 32–35, so be ready to showcase your academic strengths—if you’re submitting scores, that is. UVA is test-optional, and only 42% of applicants submitted test scores, so if standardized tests aren’t your strength, don’t sweat it.
The $18,593 tuition for in-state students is actually an average across all programs, as each academic program at UVA has its own tuition cost. So, depending on your major, the actual number may vary, but it remains a solid deal for the quality of education offered.
For out-of-state students, tuition is $57,853.50 per year, which may feel like a gut punch. Sure, UVA’s tuition might be a little steeper than some other schools on this list, but here’s the kicker: stack those scholarships and financial aid, and the cost can shrink faster than your willpower during finals week.
Through the AccessUVA program, the university promises to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students, regardless of whether you’re from Virginia or out-of-state. For low-income Virginia residents, this often translates to little or no tuition costs. That’s right—you can focus on hitting the books, not hitting up relatives for tuition money.
And if you’re a star student, the Jefferson Scholars Program covers full tuition, fees, and even a living stipend. Plus, UVA offers other merit-based scholarships and grants tailored to specific academic programs, extracurricular achievements, and community involvement. On top of that, federal grants and loans are available to sweeten the deal.
Here’s the bottom line: After all the aid is applied, the average net cost for in-state students is around $7,000–$8,000 per year. Yep, you’re getting an Ivy League-caliber education for the price of a semester’s worth of matcha lattes (if you buy two a day, but hey, who’s counting?).
As for campus life, imagine a stunning campus where historic buildings meet green lawns, and the future meets the past in the same breath. From competitive sports to rich traditions and countless clubs, the UVA experience is as much about what happens outside the classroom as inside.
UVA’s location is also unbeatable. You can spend your weekends exploring Charlottesville’s vibrant downtown, hiking nearby mountains, or attending sporting events that’ll have you cheering like you’re in the middle of a movie montage.
The Average Cost of College in Virginia
Let’s cut to the chase: college isn’t cheap, but in Virginia, it’s not the financial apocalypse you might think. Sure, when you see numbers like $26,484 for in-state students at public baccalaureate institutions, it might feel like your wallet is crying softly in the corner. But hold up—there’s more to the story.
Sticker shock vs. real costs
Here’s the deal: while the sticker price for college in Virginia might make you clutch your pearls, the actual cost you’ll pay is likely a lot lower. Why? Because the state’s funding game is strong.
In fact, Virginia covers about 54% of educational costs for undergraduates, leaving you with the remaining 46%. This makes pursuing an education at some of the cheapest colleges in Virginia an even better deal.
Breaking down costs:
- Room and board. This averaged $13,185 at baccalaureate institutions in 2024–25, which shows a 4.2% increase ($530) over the previous year. This includes your dorm room, meals, and those midnight runs to the dining hall for snacks.
- Tuition and fees. The average tuition and mandatory fees for in-state undergraduates now sit at $14,460, a modest 2.8% increase ($393) from the prior year. This covers access to classes, campus services, and even your favorite (or least favorite) group fitness classes at the gym.
The state has a goal to cover 67% of educational costs, which could slash tuition by up to $2,700 if achieved. Translation? More money for your caffeine dependency and less for your tuition bill.
Financial aid: your new BFF
Here’s the real MVP of keeping costs down: financial aid. Virginia has a ton of options to make college affordable, especially at some of the cheapest colleges, so you won’t need to sell a kidney on the black market. Here’s what you can tap into:
- Grants and scholarships. This is basically free money. The state offers grants like the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) to help in-state students with tuition, and individual colleges pile on with their own merit- or need-based awards.
- FAFSA magic. Fill out the FAFSA, and suddenly you’re eligible for federal grants, low-interest loans, and work-study programs. It’s like unlocking a cheat code for college funding.
- School-specific aid. Every school loves to brag about their unique scholarships. Whether you’re a straight-A student, a star athlete, or just really good at underwater basket weaving, there’s probably a scholarship for you.
What you’re really paying for
Let’s break this down: the $26,484 average annual cost includes more than just classes and a dorm room that could double as a closet. You’re also paying for:
- Mandatory fees for things like student health, campus gyms, and those free t-shirts you’ll hoard by senior year.
- Room and board, because eating instant noodles in a library corner isn’t sustainable.
- Facility access to everything from cutting-edge research labs to Friday night karaoke (yes, that’s a thing).
10 Smart Strategies to Score Scholarships and Save Big in College
So, you’ve got your eye on one of the cheapest colleges in Virginia, but let’s make it even sweeter. Because who doesn’t love saving more money?
Scholarships and smart budgeting can be your secret weapons to graduating with less debt (or none at all). Here’s how to maximize your college funds:
1. Start your scholarship search early.
Think of scholarships like Black Friday deals: the good ones go fast. Start your search as early as your junior year of high school. Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and College Board’s BigFuture are goldmines for finding awards tailored to your background, interests, or achievements.
Pro tip: Don’t overlook local scholarships from community organizations. They’re often less competitive.
2. Perfect your scholarship applications.
Treat scholarship applications like they’re job interviews. Write killer essays that tell your story (no copy-pasting generic answers!), and make sure you meet every deadline.
Bonus: Keep a brag sheet handy—a list of your achievements, extracurriculars, and volunteer work—to make the process quicker and less stressful.
3. Apply for niche scholarships.
The more specific, the better. There are scholarships for left-handed students, aspiring welders, or even people who are great at Minecraft (seriously). If you’ve got a unique talent, interest, or heritage, dig into niche awards that cater to your niche. Fewer applicants mean better odds for you.
4. Max out FAFSA and state grants.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) isn’t optional, so fill it out every year. It unlocks access to federal grants, work-study programs, and low-interest loans. In Virginia, don’t miss out on state programs like the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) or other need-based grants for in-state students.
5. Ask colleges about institutional aid.
Many colleges offer their own scholarships for incoming students, ranging from need-based to merit-based awards.
Here’s a pro tip: Contact the financial aid office and ask about opportunities specific to your major, extracurriculars, or even study abroad programs. Sometimes, all it takes is asking the right question to find hidden gems.
6. Look into employer benefits.
If you’re working part-time or full-time, check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement programs. Companies like Starbucks, Amazon, and Walmart provide education benefits to their employees, which can significantly cut your college costs.
7. Use budgeting tools to manage your money.
Stretching your college budget starts with knowing where your money is going. Apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), or even old-school spreadsheets can help you track expenses and avoid those “where did all my money go?” moments.
8. Save on textbooks and supplies.
Textbooks are overpriced (looking at you, $300 chemistry book). Save by renting, buying used, or checking out digital versions. Websites like Chegg and Amazon are lifesavers, and some colleges even offer textbook rental programs.
9. Take advantage of free campus resources.
Your tuition dollars are already funding things like gym memberships, counseling services, and tutoring centers—so use them! Also, keep an eye out for free food events (because nothing stretches a budget like free sandwiches).
10. Live smart, not flashy.
Skip the daily $5 coffee and embrace meal prepping. Living with roommates off-campus can save money, and using public transportation instead of a car can cut costs even further. Remember, college is temporary. Luxury living can wait until after you land that dream job.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the cheapest colleges in Virginia for in-state students?
Norfolk State University tops the list with tuition as low as $3,038 per semester, followed by Virginia State University at $6,452 per year and Radford University at $8,528 per year. These schools provide quality education at a fraction of the cost, which makes them some of the top cheapest colleges in Virginia.
2. What is the average cost of college in Virginia for in-state students?
The average cost of college in Virginia for in-state undergraduates at public baccalaureate institutions is $26,484 per year, which includes tuition, fees, room, and board. Tuition and mandatory fees alone average $14,460 per year, while room and board average $13,185. Despite these numbers, Virginia’s state funding and financial aid programs help make college more affordable for many students.
3. What are some tips for finding affordable colleges in Virginia?
Finding affordable colleges in Virginia starts with research. Look into public universities like Virginia State University, Norfolk State University, and Radford University, which offer competitive tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. Utilize tools like Fastweb and College Board to compare costs and scholarship opportunities. Don’t forget to fill out the FAFSA to access federal and state financial aid, and reach out to college financial aid offices to learn about institution-specific grants and programs.
4. Which college is the cheapest university in Virginia for out-of-state students?
For out-of-state students, Norfolk State University is one of the cheapest universities in Virginia, with tuition at $8,789 per semester. Virginia State University is another affordable option, charging $18,283 per year. Both schools provide excellent value for students coming from outside the Commonwealth.
5. What financial aid options are available to attend the cheapest colleges in Virginia?
Virginia offers a range of financial aid programs to help students afford college. The Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) is available to in-state students, while colleges like Radford University and James Madison University offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. Additionally, filling out the FAFSA can unlock federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to make affordable colleges in Virginia even more accessible.
Takeaways
Choosing the cheapest colleges in Virginia can save you thousands while still providing a high-quality education. Here are the key points to remember:
- Virginia has affordable options for both in-state and out-of-state students. Schools like Norfolk State University, Virginia State University, and Radford University offer competitive tuition rates without compromising on academic excellence or campus life.
- Financial aid changes the game. Programs like the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG), federal FAFSA grants, and college-specific scholarships can significantly bring your college costs down, which makes even the cheapest colleges in Virginia even more accessible.
- Out-of-state students can find value too. Universities like Norfolk State and Virginia State have out-of-state tuition rates that are lower than many in-state rates in other states. If you’re willing to explore, Virginia offers affordable college options for everyone.
- Is the process too overwhelming? Don’t stress. From narrowing down the cheapest colleges in Virginia and figuring out financial aid to creating an application that gets noticed, a college admissions consultant can make all the difference. With expert guidance, you can simplify the process, reduce stress, and save valuable time and money.