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George Mason University and Virginia State University are both public institutions — George Mason University in Fairfax, VA and Virginia State University in Petersburg, VA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Fairfax, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 87.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 27,752
Tuition: $38,688/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 67.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Computer science, Security and law enforcement
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Fairfax, VA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Computer science.
Petersburg, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 88.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,074
Tuition: $22,650/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 39.4%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Security and law enforcement, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Petersburg, VA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Security and law enforcement.
| Factor | George Mason University | Virginia State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 87.5% | 88.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1160–1360 |
| 840–1070 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 25–30 | 14–20 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 27,752 | 5,074 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $38,688/year | $22,650/year |
| Average net price after aid | $17,915 | $15,840 |
| Graduation rate | 67.8% | 39.4% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $76,343 | $45,543 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Fairfax, VA | Petersburg, VA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Computer science, Security and law enforcement | Business and marketing, Security and law enforcement, Education |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (87.5% vs 88.6%). Virginia State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,840 vs $17,915). George Mason University reports the higher graduation rate (67.8% vs 39.4%). George Mason University is the larger undergraduate campus (27,752 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between George Mason University and Virginia State University
George Mason University has an acceptance rate of 87.5%; Virginia State University is around 88.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
George Mason University tuition is $38,688/year. Virginia State University is $22,650/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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