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Old Dominion University and Virginia Commonwealth University are both public institutions — Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA and Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, 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.
Norfolk, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 90.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 17,514
Tuition: $33,780/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 46.3%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Computer science
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Norfolk, VA with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
Richmond, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 92.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 20,753
Tuition: $40,109/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 63.2%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Business and marketing, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Richmond, VA with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Old Dominion University | Virginia Commonwealth University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 90.4% | 92.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1100–1280 |
| 1010–1270 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 24–29 | 22–30 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 17,514 | 20,753 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $33,780/year | $40,109/year |
| Average net price after aid | $14,638 | $23,433 |
| Graduation rate | 46.3% | 63.2% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $54,914 | $58,128 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Norfolk, VA | Richmond, VA |
| Largest program areas | Health professions, Business and marketing, Computer science | Visual and performing arts, Business and marketing, Psychology |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (90.4% vs 92.6%). Old Dominion University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($14,638 vs $23,433). Virginia Commonwealth University reports the higher graduation rate (63.2% vs 46.3%). Virginia Commonwealth University is the larger undergraduate campus (20,753 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 Old Dominion University and Virginia Commonwealth University
Old Dominion University has an acceptance rate of 90.4%; Virginia Commonwealth University is around 92.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Old Dominion University tuition is $33,780/year. Virginia Commonwealth University is $40,109/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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