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Virginia Military Institute

Virginia Military Institute campus
Virginia Military Institute (VMI) believes that the measure of a college lies in the quality and performance of its graduates and their contributions to society. Founded in 1839, the oldest state-supported military college in the United States, VMI attracts individuals who want an undergraduate experience more complete and transformative than an ordinary college or university can provide. VMI offers a superb education with a multi-faceted program designed to instill lifelong values of integrity, devotion to duty, self-discipline, and self-reliance. Our graduates have made distinguished contributions both in the military and in fields as diverse as business, engineering, international affairs, medicine, and public policy.
Accepts first-year applicationsSouthPublicRuralSmall (2,000 and under)Co-Ed

Academic programs

  • Engineering
  • Research
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Business
  • Economics
  • Government/Political Science
  • Health Science
  • Social Science
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science

Student experience

  • Athletics
  • Co-op/Internship Opportunities
  • Disability Services
  • Intramural/Club Sports
  • Military/Veteran Services
  • On-Campus Housing
  • ROTC Program
  • Study Abroad
  • Undergraduate Research

Application information

First-year

VMI Applicants are normally 16 - 22 years old at matriculation, must be in good physical condition, and may not be married or a parent. 

No application fee
VMI is currently test-optional

CRITICAL DATES & DEADLINES:
Aug. 1 = VMI begins accepting applications
Nov. 15 = Early Decision deadline
Feb. 1 = Regular Decision (priority) deadline
Mar. 1 = FAFSA priority deadline
NOTE: Applications and supporting documents will be reviewed on a rolling basis after early decision applicants have been reviewed.

Learn more about applying to the Corps of Cadets.

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Additional information

VMI admits applicants regardless of financial circumstances or aid eligibility. When creating a financial aid award including loans for students, the Office of Financial Aid works to provide the best package possible based on the information provided.

It is crucial that all applicants who plan to receive financial aid complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA). Tuition financial need is determined by the student’s cost of attendance minus the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) that was determined by the information from the FAFSA.

Did you know? Financial aid estimates are available to applicants who have submitted their FAFSA and necessary financial aid forms prior to receiving an admission decision.

Find information for tuition and fees, types of aid available, and determining need on VMI.edu. There is even information for parents and guidance on financial literacy.

Visit us

The Institute has a distinguished past, present, and future. VMI’s barracks was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966, and post (campus) was named a National Historic District in 1974. Today, it continues to be the training ground for tomorrow’s leaders.

There are multiple ways to connect with VMI cadets, faculty, and staff. The BEST way is to attend an Open House, our 2-day informational program that allows you, the student, to learn about all aspects of the VMI experience and stay overnight in Barracks with a cadet host. Learn more about visiting VMI.

If you are unable to visit on the scheduled Open House dates, we encourage all prospective cadets and their families to schedule a personal visit to experience life at the Institute firsthand. During your visit, you’ll meet with an admissions counselor, tour Post with a cadet, and learn about academics, ROTC programs, and daily cadet life. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Visits are available on select weekdays and require advance registration with the Office of Admissions.

“I was raised to work hard to earn what you want in life, and VMI fit that mentality perfectly. Everything is earned at VMI, not given. It presents challenges and opportunities that no other school offers but also presents unique rewards and benefits. I knew that the work I put in at VMI would better myself at the end of four years, ultimately leading me to decide that it was the school for me."