15 Cheapest Universities in Virginia for International Students

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In Virginia, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in United States without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Virginia, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 42 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Virginia, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Virginia for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Virginia ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Virginia University of Lynchburg 8,200 USD 75%
Virginia Union University 10,600 USD 68%
Virginia State University 16,600 USD 49%
Bluefield State College 16,600 USD 49%
Regent University 18,100 USD 44%
Southern Virginia University 18,900 USD 42%
Radford University 20,300 USD 37%
Norfolk State University 21,600 USD 33%
Sweet Briar College 22,700 USD 30%
Liberty University 23,800 USD 26%
University of Mary Washington 25,900 USD 20%
Hampton University 26,200 USD 19%
Randolph College 27,300 USD 15%
Bluefield University 27,600 USD 14%
Longwood University 27,800 USD 14%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 32,100 USD for universities in Virginia.

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1. Virginia University of Lynchburg

Virginia University of Lynchburg is a Christian-centered institution that seeks to nurture a safe and caring environment where students are given equal opportunities to develop into future leaders in society. The university’s primary mission is to welcome diverse students from different cultures and ethnic groups and educate them to become well-trained individuals in whatever career they wish to pursue.

2. Virginia Union University

Virginia Union University is a private historically black Baptist university in Richmond, Virginia. It was established in 1865 by the American Baptist Home Mission Society as the Richmond Theological Institute. Undergraduate and graduate programs are available in the arts, business, education, science, and theology. Divinity/Ministry, Criminology, Biology, and Business Administration are the most popular majors at Virginia Union.

3. Virginia State University

Virginia State University caters to a predominant population of Black American students. It began as an all-Black learning environment, with the student body comprised of diverse ethnic backgrounds. Virginia State University offers degree programs from a broad range of disciplines, such as business management, science and engineering, and the social sciences.

4. Bluefield State College

For over a century, Bluefield State College has played a major role in making higher education more affordable and accessible in the state of West Virginia. This historically black institution offers degree programs in various disciplines designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to the needs of industries and society. The college also carries out different services and activities to support its students and help them succeed in every step of their academic journey.

5. Regent University

Regent University is a Catholic university in Virginia and is religiously affiliated with the Interdenominational Evangelical. The “regent” in its name refers to Christ. It is not the same or related to Regent’s College or Regent’s University London. Regent Uni has both institutional and specialized accreditations from organizations such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

6. Southern Virginia University

Southern Virginia University is located near the Blue Ridge Mountains with a history rooted in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the American Revolution, and the Civil War. The school has offered quality undergraduate and graduate degree programs since 1867, with 44 faculty heads that govern specific fields of study. The code of conduct of the school revolves around faith, honesty, and kindness. The university also provides quality services for students’ campus life, such as free iPads, free Wi-Fi, university housing, campus dining, athletic camps, art performances, and various counseling.

7. Radford University

Founded in 1910, Radford University has been providing exemplary educational programs to its local community. It also warmly welcomes out-state and international students from all backgrounds. One of the university’s primary goals is to cultivate responsible and competent individuals. Admitted students will be presented with numerous opportunities to help develop their skills, gain sufficient knowledge, and enhance their talents. Currently, the university offers multidisciplinary programs and awards degrees from bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and associate degrees.

8. Norfolk State University

Norfolk State University aims to maintain its legacy of being one of the best state universities in the country. It provides a space for students to flourish and achieve excellence through rigorous academic work and practical experience. The university also enables students to gain international background by participating in numerous conferences and foreign events.

9. Sweet Briar College

Sweet Briar College was founded by Indiana Fletcher Williams to give more opportunities to women in a time when women could not even vote. The college was quickly recognized by graduate programs at leading institutions, and three of its five first graduates were accepted to pursue graduate studies in those leading universities. The college persisted when its own administration attempted to close its gates and has now become a self-governing institution of learning.

10. Liberty University

Liberty University is perfect for students with a conservative Christian background since this is an evangelical university that keeps Christian values at the core of its operations. Proof of this is the various volunteer programs available to students, along with the activities organized by the Liberty Worship Collective. Besides religion-related degrees, Liberty University offers more than 700 programs in various areas including science, technology, health, humanities, and law. They are available for studying on campus and online.

11. University of Mary Washington

The University of Mary Washington offers education and training in the arts, sciences, business, and education. While it has several undergraduate courses, its selection of graduate programs is limited. The institution started as a teacher training school before becoming a full-fledged university in 2004. Besides its campus in Fredericksburg, UMW has other locations in Virginia: Stafford and Dahlgren. As for placement, it placed 251st in the QS US Universities rankings.

12. Hampton University

The predecessor of Hampton University was established by the American Missionary Association for freedmen, making it a historically black institution. This privately-owned university is prominent for education quality, placing 301st in the QS US University rankings, 401st in the Times Higher Education US Colleges rankings, and 202nd in the US News National Rankings. Its museum is also among the oldest in the state and country.

13. Randolph College

Randolph College is a well-established liberal arts and science institution that offers innovative academic programs. Since the school has a close-knit community, there will likely be support from fellow students and possible mentorship from academic staff.  Additionally, this nationally recognized college comprises a diverse group of students from Virginia, neighboring states, and other foreign countries.

14. Bluefield University

Bluefield University is a private Baptist university in Bluefield, Virginia. It was established in 1922 as Bluefield College by the Baptist General Associate of Virginia. Bluefield is regarded as Virginia’s premier Christ-centered liberal arts university due to its rigorous academic program and diverse student body. Over 70 academic programs in a variety of fields are available at the university.

15. Longwood University

Longwood University combines a classical liberal arts curriculum with an intensive experience in the actual field. The university aims to train students and immediately expose them to real-life situations. It seeks to maintain a constructive and efficient learning environment where students get to maximize their intelligence.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Virginia for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Virginia ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Emory and Henry College 5,475 USD - 7,875 USD 67%
Sweet Briar College 5,700 USD 65%
Liberty University 5,700 USD - 9,810 USD 65%
Hollins University 6,375 USD - 22,800 USD 61%
Virginia Union University 6,765 USD 59%
Shenandoah University 6,825 USD - 14,200 USD 58%
Eastern Mennonite University 7,335 USD - 9,900 USD 55%
Regent University 8,040 USD - 16,600 USD 51%
Virginia University of Lynchburg 8,200 USD 50%
University of Lynchburg 8,325 USD - 9,120 USD 49%
Mary Baldwin University 8,910 USD - 13,800 USD 45%
Bluefield State College 13,200 USD 19%
Marymount University 13,900 USD - 17,900 USD 14%
Longwood University 14,400 USD 12%
Randolph College 14,500 USD - 20,700 USD 11%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 16,200 USD for universities in Virginia.

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1. Emory and Henry College

Emory & Henry College is a private liberal arts university located in Emory, southwestern Virginia, United States. The university was founded in 1836, and is said to be the oldest institution of higher education in southwestern Virginia. The university’s entire central campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Register, and the university offers more than 25 academic programs. In addition, students at Emory & Henry College have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge by participating in overseas study programs or overseas travel programs with professors and lectures by experts and artists in various fields.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Emory and Henry College should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 5,475 USD to 7,875 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Sweet Briar College

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Sweet Briar College. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Sweet Briar College is 5,700 USD.

Sweet Briar College was founded by Indiana Fletcher Williams to give more opportunities to women in a time when women could not even vote. The college was quickly recognized by graduate programs at leading institutions, and three of its five first graduates were accepted to pursue graduate studies in those leading universities. The college persisted when its own administration attempted to close its gates and has now become a self-governing institution of learning.

3. Liberty University

Liberty University is perfect for students with a conservative Christian background since this is an evangelical university that keeps Christian values at the core of its operations. Proof of this is the various volunteer programs available to students, along with the activities organized by the Liberty Worship Collective. Besides religion-related degrees, Liberty University offers more than 700 programs in various areas including science, technology, health, humanities, and law. They are available for studying on campus and online.

The tuition fee at Liberty University for incoming international master’s students is 5,700 USD to 9,810 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Hollins University

Another affordable university to consider in Virginia is Hollins University.

Founded a century and a half ago, Hollins University offers 29 bachelor’s degree programs and 12 master’s degree programs. It was established as an institution only for female students, and it continues to be like that for undergraduate programs. However, master’s degrees are now available for both female and male students. This university is known for its programs in different fields of arts and humanities, although the biology and business majors are very popular as well. Education here focuses on giving internship opportunities and encouraging study abroad options.

The tuition fee in Hollins University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 6,375 USD.

5. Virginia Union University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Virginia Union University has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 6,765 USD yearly.

Virginia Union University is a private historically black Baptist university in Richmond, Virginia. It was established in 1865 by the American Baptist Home Mission Society as the Richmond Theological Institute. Undergraduate and graduate programs are available in the arts, business, education, science, and theology. Divinity/Ministry, Criminology, Biology, and Business Administration are the most popular majors at Virginia Union.

6. Shenandoah University

Shenandoah University is a private university acknowledged for its high standards of teaching and research. The university offers liberal arts and professional programs in the following areas of study: health sciences, business, social sciences, humanities, arts, and natural sciences. Moreover, the university also gives students numerous opportunities, such as exchange programs, study abroad programs, and community service programs to name a few.

7. Eastern Mennonite University

Eastern Mennonite University is a private Mennonite liberal arts university located in Virginia. It is primarily aimed at working adults, and also operates a satellite campus in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the United States. Many graduates of Eastern Mennonite University tend to be engaged in service-oriented work, such as healthcare, education, and social welfare. The university is also famous for its graduate program of the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding (CJP), especially for conflict change.

8. Regent University

Regent University is a Catholic university in Virginia and is religiously affiliated with the Interdenominational Evangelical. The “regent” in its name refers to Christ. It is not the same or related to Regent’s College or Regent’s University London. Regent Uni has both institutional and specialized accreditations from organizations such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. Virginia University of Lynchburg

Virginia University of Lynchburg is a Christian-centered institution that seeks to nurture a safe and caring environment where students are given equal opportunities to develop into future leaders in society. The university’s primary mission is to welcome diverse students from different cultures and ethnic groups and educate them to become well-trained individuals in whatever career they wish to pursue.

10. University of Lynchburg

Two hundred years into the establishment of the city of Lynchburg in the state of Virginia, the University of Lynchburg was finally founded. Established in 1903, the University of Lynchburg is a private university that offers a balanced student life of academics and sports. The athletic field of the Lynchburg area currently has NCAA Division III teams that actively compete for prestige and experience. Recently, around 2400 students have been enrolled, and it continues to grow as time passes by.

11. Mary Baldwin University

Mary Baldwin University (MBU) is a private university located in Staunton, Virginia. It was established in 1842 as the Augusta Female Seminary and was named after one of its first students, Mary Julia Baldwin. The university grants undergraduate degrees in over 30 majors and graduate degrees in a variety of fields.

12. Bluefield State College

For over a century, Bluefield State College has played a major role in making higher education more affordable and accessible in the state of West Virginia. This historically black institution offers degree programs in various disciplines designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to the needs of industries and society. The college also carries out different services and activities to support its students and help them succeed in every step of their academic journey.

13. Marymount University

Marymount University is a privately funded Catholic institution in Virginia. Even as a Catholic school, it admits students from all ethnicities and religious backgrounds. It is nationally recognized as one of the most diverse universities in Virginia. In addition, the university prepares students for their future careers by providing top-quality education and valuable training. One of its pride is that it has cultivated countless successful graduates who ventured into various industry sectors.

14. Longwood University

Longwood University combines a classical liberal arts curriculum with an intensive experience in the actual field. The university aims to train students and immediately expose them to real-life situations. It seeks to maintain a constructive and efficient learning environment where students get to maximize their intelligence.

15. Randolph College

Randolph College is a well-established liberal arts and science institution that offers innovative academic programs. Since the school has a close-knit community, there will likely be support from fellow students and possible mentorship from academic staff.  Additionally, this nationally recognized college comprises a diverse group of students from Virginia, neighboring states, and other foreign countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Virginia?

Applying to cheap universities in Virginia requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in United States for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Virginia?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Virginia. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Virginia is the Bluefield State College, which offers Allied Health Education, Organizational Leadership and Development, and Civil Engineering Technology to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Bluefield State College offers Business Administration.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Virginia, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Virginia as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Virginia for international students was helpful!