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Washington and Lee University and University of Virginia-Main Campus are both private nonprofit institutions — Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA and University of Virginia-Main Campus in Charlottesville, 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.
Lexington, VA · Private
Acceptance rate: 14.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,881
Tuition: $68,045/year
Student-faculty ratio: 7.0:1
Graduation rate: 93.9%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Social sciences, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Lexington, VA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Social sciences.
Charlottesville, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 16.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 17,597
Tuition: $59,512/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 95.6%
Top programs: Social sciences, Computer science, Engineering
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Charlottesville, VA with published program strength in Social sciences and Computer science.
| Factor | Washington and Lee University | University of Virginia-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 14.0% | 16.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1430–1540 |
| 1410–1540 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 33–34 | 32–35 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,881 | 17,597 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $68,045/year | $59,512/year |
| Average net price after aid | $23,781 | $21,565 |
| Graduation rate | 93.9% | 95.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $94,810 | $86,863 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 7.0:1 | 15.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Location | Lexington, VA | Charlottesville, VA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Social sciences, Biological sciences | Social sciences, Computer science, Engineering |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (14.0% vs 16.8%). University of Virginia-Main Campus has a lower average net price after grant aid ($21,565 vs $23,781). University of Virginia-Main Campus reports the higher graduation rate (95.6% vs 93.9%). University of Virginia-Main Campus is the larger undergraduate campus (17,597 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 Washington and Lee University and University of Virginia-Main Campus
Washington and Lee University has an acceptance rate of 14.0%; University of Virginia-Main Campus is around 16.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Washington and Lee University tuition is $68,045/year. University of Virginia-Main Campus is $59,512/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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