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James Madison University and Virginia Wesleyan University are both public institutions — James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA and Virginia Wesleyan University in Virginia Beach, 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.
Harrisonburg, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 71.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 20,888
Tuition: $31,604/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 79.7%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Communication
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Harrisonburg, VA with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
Virginia Beach, VA · Private
Acceptance rate: 72.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,256
Tuition: $37,500/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 41.6%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Psychology, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Virginia Beach, VA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Psychology.
| Factor | James Madison University | Virginia Wesleyan University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 71.5% | 72.9% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1170–1340 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 24–29 | 29 average |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 20,888 | 1,256 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $31,604/year | $37,500/year |
| Average net price after aid | $23,322 | $19,676 |
| Graduation rate | 79.7% | 41.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $69,954 | $50,074 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17.0:1 | 15.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Harrisonburg, VA | Virginia Beach, VA |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Communication | Business and marketing, Psychology, Biological sciences |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (71.5% vs 72.9%). Virginia Wesleyan University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($19,676 vs $23,322). James Madison University reports the higher graduation rate (79.7% vs 41.6%). James Madison University is the larger undergraduate campus (20,888 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 James Madison University and Virginia Wesleyan University
James Madison University has an acceptance rate of 71.5%; Virginia Wesleyan University is around 72.9%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
James Madison University tuition is $31,604/year. Virginia Wesleyan University is $37,500/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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