2025 Best Colleges in Virginia

College can be an exciting and life-changing time — one that comes with all sorts of experiences and opportunities that shape your personal, academic, and professional life. In recent years, attending a college or university has become easier than ever before, but sometimes choosing one can prove challenging.

There are many colleges and universities out there, and Virginia is no exception. With over 130 colleges and universities in Virginia, it can be tough to choose just one school. Luckily, at Niche, we are here to help you find the best colleges in Virginia that will fit your personality and goals.

What Is There To Know About Virginia?

If you already live in Virginia, you probably have some familiarity with what the state has to offer. If not, many things make Virginia unique — and an excellent place for students to live, learn, and thrive.

Geographically, Virginia is centrally located on the East Coast, and it has a very diverse landscape. The western part of the state is full of mountains, while the eastern part is home to beautiful beaches across Virginia’s 7,000 miles of shoreline. Virginia has the perfect blend of city life and country living with big cities like Virginia Beach and Chesapeake.

Virginia also experiences all four seasons. Students coming from warmer out-of-state climates might need some time to adjust to the change. Virginia is also home to many historical sites, including the very first English settlements that led to what we now know as the United States of America.

Virginia is big on higher education: Over 60% of its residents are college-educated. And the state happens to be the home to some of the nation’s best universities. Your search on Niche may lead you to explore some big names like The University of Virginia and Virginia Tech. A big plus of larger universities is their availability of majors and diverse student populations.

Does Virginia Have 2-Year Degree College Options?

If a big 4-year degree institution isn’t what you’re looking for, we can help you find the best colleges in Virginia that are 2-year degree institutions. Virginia has over 70 2-year colleges, including community colleges and trade schools.

A 2-year degree may be all you need to work and live your life to the fullest. Pursuing a 2-year degree can also be a great way to start your studies before transitioning to a 4-year degree. Virginia has great 2-year degree options like Piedmont Virginia Community College and Central Virginia Community College.

Find Your Niche in Virginia

Here at Niche, we can help you find the best universities in Virginia. The reasons you choose one college over another are your own, but we can help focus your search based on what matters most to you, including location, tuition cost, student body size, and more.

Niche can show you options that suit your needs to every last detail, including some that you may have never even considered before. Virginia’s state motto is “Virginia is for lovers,” and we’re here to say it’s for students too!