News Summary
Several Virginia institutions have been recognized in Money’s 2025 Best Colleges in America rankings, emphasizing affordability and academic quality. The rankings evaluated 732 colleges, focusing on affordability, educational quality, and post-graduation salaries. Notable Virginia colleges include William & Mary, Washington and Lee University, and the University of Virginia, all achieving high ratings. As families face rising education costs, these rankings serve as a crucial guide for making informed college decisions.
Richmond, Virginia – Several Virginia institutions have been highlighted in Money’s 2025 Best Colleges in America rankings, which emphasize affordability along with academic excellence and strong post-graduation salary potential. A total of 732 colleges were evaluated, providing vital guidance for families navigating the increasing costs of higher education.
The rankings, which assess colleges based on affordability, quality of education, and post-graduation outcomes, found that these Virginia colleges stood out for their commitment to helping students graduate and secure employment. The methodology includes about two dozen data points, with an emphasis of 40% on affordability, and 30% each on educational quality and post-graduation salaries.
Featured Virginia Colleges
William & Mary, Williamsburg
William & Mary received a 4.5-star rating, boasting an acceptance rate of 33%. The estimated total cost for the academic year 2025-2026 is $44,660, while the estimated cost after average financial aid is reduced to $21,700. The college has a remarkable graduation rate of 91%.
Washington and Lee University, Lexington
Washington and Lee University also earned a 4.5-star rating with a selective acceptance rate of 17%. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the estimated full cost is $90,280, decreasing to $26,200 with average financial aid. The graduation rate here is notably high at 94%.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg
Virginia Tech, another strong contender, received a 4.5-star rating and has an acceptance rate of 57%. The estimated total cost for the next academic year is $38,660, which falls to $23,600 after aid. Their graduation rate stands at 86%.
Virginia Military Institute, Lexington
The Virginia Military Institute, rated 4.5 stars, has an acceptance rate of 82%. The full cost is $36,140, while the estimated cost after average aid is an impressive $8,300. Their graduation rate is 75%.
University of Virginia, Charlottesville
Another prestigious institution, the University of Virginia, also earned a 4.5-star rating with a 17% acceptance rate. The estimated full cost for the 2025-2026 academic year is $41,430, reducing to $18,900 with average financial aid, and has a graduation rate of 93%.
University of Richmond
The University of Richmond holds a 4.5-star rating and has a 23% acceptance rate. The cost is estimated at $84,390, with an average post-aid price of $37,400, resulting in a graduation rate of 88%.
James Madison University, Harrisonburg
James Madison University has a 4.5-star rating. It boasts a 76% acceptance rate, with an estimated full cost of $33,180 and an average aid price of $27,900. The graduation rate here is 82%.
George Mason University, Fairfax
George Mason University received 4.5 stars and has an acceptance rate of 89%. The estimated total cost is $35,020, while the estimated price after financial aid is $20,100, contributing to a graduation rate of 76%.
Christopher Newport University, Newport News
Lastly, Christopher Newport University has a 4-star rating with an 88% acceptance rate. The full cost for 2025-2026 is estimated at $35,830, dropping to $24,300 with aid, and the graduation rate is 74%.
Context on College Rankings
These rankings come at a time when federal education policy is undergoing changes, particularly following the Trump administration’s influence on funding for higher education. As families strive to make informed decisions regarding college expenses and academic choices, the information presented in Money’s rankings seeks to streamline that process.
Colleges that achieve high rankings not only provide educational excellence but also support their students effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for post-graduation success. As college costs continue to rise, such analyses become crucial for future students and their families.
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Additional Resources
- Money: Best Colleges
- Virginia Mercury: Feds to Virginia Schools
- The Guardian: Trump Threats University of Virginia
- Patch: VA Colleges Earned Top Scores
- West Virginia Watch: Trump Freezes Funding for WV Schools
- Wikipedia: Higher Education in the United States
- Google Search: College Ranking
- Google Scholar: College Affordability
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College
- Google News: College Funding
