10 Best Colleges in Virginia USA 2026/2027
Are you aware that there are so many options you can choose from today when trying to decide which college to attend? Our guide on the best colleges in Virginia USA will reveal all of that.
Virginia has a little bit of everything to suit every student’s lifestyle and needs. As for scenic nature, the state’s stunning beaches and majestic mountains make for perfect mini getaways on weekends or during academic breaks.
Students with an interest in American history can explore the many museums located throughout the state.
The city dweller would love George Mason University, as it is located just minutes away from Washington, D.C. There are almost 200 academic programs available for students to select from at this university!
The first state in the United States to incorporate Greek life in higher education is Virginia.
The fraternity, Phi Beta Kappa, was founded at College of William & Mary. Since then, fraternities have become a popular means for students to network, cultivate a sense of community, and meet other individuals with similar interests and career goals.
10 Best Colleges in Virginia USA
Table of Interests
With 98 colleges and universities enrolling over 533,230 students, Virginia provides numerous higher education options.
To aid your college search, refer to the objective and data-driven CollegeSimply rankings of top colleges in Virginia. These rankings will assist you in finding the best match for your needs.
To gain insight into the calculation process of the Best Colleges rankings, visit our ranking methodology page.
This guide to best Colleges in Virginia presents a comprehensive view of the state’s higher education options, catering to those seeking public, private, or community colleges.
1. Washington and Lee University
Washington and Lee University, situated amidst the Virginia mountains, is an esteemed institution that delivers a personalized and exceptional undergraduate education along with a renowned School of Law.
Established in 1749, Washington and Lee University is a distinguished liberal arts university, ranking as the 9th oldest college in the United States, predating even the US Constitution.
Over time, the university has transformed into a leading institution, implementing inventive and versatile teaching approaches.
Their commitment to offering an education that corresponds with the needs of the 21st century is exemplified through their motto, “Not unmindful of the future.”
2. University of Virginia
Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia in 1819, initiating an audacious experiment – a publicly-funded university intended to promote the advancement of human knowledge, educate upcoming leaders, and foster an enlightened citizenry.
The University is a distinguished public institution of higher education, renowned for its nationally recognized schools and programs, accomplished and diverse faculty, and illustrious history as a leading research university.
The University’s lively and inclusive culture is enhanced by a strong emphasis on student self-rule, a deep appreciation for the arts, and a thriving NCAA Division I Athletics program.
3. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is a public research institution with its main campus located in Blacksburg, Virginia, along with six additional educational centers in various regions statewide, and an array of study-abroad programs.
The university is dedicated to fulfilling its land-grant mission, utilizing technological leadership to promote economic growth and job creation both locally and regionally, thus converting knowledge into practice.
4. William & Mary
5. Virginia Military Institute
From the time this institution was founded in 1839, Virginia Military Institute (VMI) has been the oldest military college in the United States that is supported by the state.
Throughout its rich history, VMI has produced exceptional leaders and individuals who exemplify the values of honesty, impartiality, and the importance of diligence that are embedded in the Institute’s aims and objectives.
VMI offers a unique undergraduate experience that goes beyond the ordinary college or university education, with greater versatility in its applications than military service academies system.
6. George Mason University
According to the recent 2023 Best Online Programs rankings released by U.S. News & World Report, George Mason University has some of the top online degree programs in the country.
It comes with five programs in areas like education and engineering ranked in the top 20 among public universities in Virginia. Less you forget, George Mason University was established in 1957.
7. University of Richmond
The University of Richmond is dedicated to providing a holistic education that fosters intellectual growth in a lively community.
The statistics and rankings provide context to this mission and demonstrate the University’s and students’ achievements, motivating them to aim for even greater success.
The University recognizes that academic learning should not be confined to the classroom and encourages students to participate in diverse learning opportunities on and off-campus, locally and internationally, empowering them to take charge of their studies.
8. James Madison University
James Madison University is a public university situated in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, which was established in 1908.
The university is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the top institutions of higher education in the country.
The reason this is so is because of the remarkable connections that students forge with renowned faculty members who are committed to both teaching and research processes as well.
James Madison University is ranked highly by various organizations and publications. Zippia, based on data from the US Department of Education, names it the best college in Virginia for securing employment.
To add to that, according to Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Ed, JMU is the most recommended public university in the US. Niche.com also ranks JMU as having the seventh-best college campus in America.
9. Marymount University
Marymount University, the inaugural Catholic college founded in Virginia, has evolved since its establishment in 1950 as a two-year college for women.
It is now a comprehensive coeducational Catholic university, serving approximately 3,900 graduate and undergraduate students.
A Marymount education aims to promote the intellectual, ethical, and spiritual growth of each student while fostering a community of learning that prioritizes personal and professional advancement.
