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West Virginia University and Shepherd University are both public institutions — West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV and Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, WV. 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.
Morgantown, WV · Public
Acceptance rate: 89.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 17,385
Tuition: $28,608/year
Student-faculty ratio: 19.0:1
Graduation rate: 64.7%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Engineering
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Morgantown, WV with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
Shepherdstown, WV · Public
Acceptance rate: 96.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,344
Tuition: $19,082/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 51.0%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Shepherdstown, WV with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | West Virginia University | Shepherd University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 89.0% | 96.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1010–1220 |
| 878–1140 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 20–26 | 19–24 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 17,385 | 2,344 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $28,608/year | $19,082/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,634 | $11,363 |
| Graduation rate | 64.7% | 51.0% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $55,939 | $49,358 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 19.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Morgantown, WV | Shepherdstown, WV |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Health professions, Engineering | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education |
West Virginia University is more selective (89.0% vs 96.8% acceptance rate). Shepherd University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($11,363 vs $15,634). West Virginia University reports the higher graduation rate (64.7% vs 51.0%). West Virginia University is the larger undergraduate campus (17,385 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 West Virginia University and Shepherd University
West Virginia University has an acceptance rate of 89.0%; Shepherd University is around 96.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
West Virginia University tuition is $28,608/year. Shepherd University is $19,082/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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