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Colleges and Universities in Virginia
Virginia — the Old Dominion — is home to 141 accredited colleges and universities, including 40 public institutions and 101 private schools. The state flagship, University of Virginia, anchors a higher education landscape that ranges from large research universities in Richmond to small liberal arts colleges across the state.
Use the college finder above to search every accredited institution in Virginia. Filter by tuition cost, institution type, acceptance rate, and more to build your 2026 college list.
Higher education in Virginia at a glance
- Total accredited colleges: 141
- Public universities: 40
- Private colleges: 101
- Flagship institution: University of Virginia
- Largest higher-ed city: Richmond
Types of colleges in Virginia
Public universities in Virginia are state-funded institutions that offer significantly reduced in-state tuition to Virginia residents. These schools are typically larger, with broad program offerings across undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.
Private colleges in Virginia include both nonprofit institutions — which reinvest tuition revenue into academics and financial aid — and for-profit schools focused on career and technical programs. Private nonprofit colleges in Virginia often have smaller class sizes and more generous need-based aid packages than their published tuition suggests.
Frequently asked questions — colleges in Virginia
How many colleges are in Virginia?
There are 141 accredited colleges and universities in Virginia in the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard database, including 40 public and 101 private institutions.
What is the cheapest college in Virginia?
Community colleges in Virginia typically offer the lowest tuition — often under $5,000 per year for in-state students. Use the college finder above to find the most affordable options.
What is the largest university in Virginia?
University of Virginia is among the largest and most well-known universities in Virginia. Search for it by name in the college finder above to view its full data profile.