Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University campus
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University logo

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · Public · 30,923 students

Gobblerfest kicks off each fall semester, connecting students with a wide array of campus activities.

Acceptance rate

54.8%

SAT (mid 50%)

1280–1450

Avg net price

$24,953

after aid

Testing

Optional

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University admitted 54.8% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1280–1450 on the SAT and 28–32 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Problem-Solving, Service-Driven Education

With over 150 majors and options, you will experience a matchless education designed to bring together talent and solve complex problems.

The academic structure offers a wide array of over 150 majors and options, organized by college, interest area, and pre-professional programs.

  • Aerospace EngineeringBiomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering
  • Accounting and Business AnalysisEntrepreneurship, Innovation and Technology Management
  • ArchitectureArt History, Cinema, Creative Writing

Verified from vt.edu and vt.edu and vt.edu and vt.edu and vt.edu and vt.edu and vt.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from vt.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Have you had an experience when you or someone you know were not being included? Did you reach out to anyone for assistance, direction, or resources? Were you able to affect change and/or influence others? Did this experience change your perspective and if so, how?

    Up to 120 words

  • Virginia Tech's motto is 'Ut Prosim' which means 'That I May Serve'. Share how you contribute to a community that is important to you. How long have you been involved? What have you learned and how would you like to share that with others at Virginia Tech?

    Up to 120 words

  • Share a time when you were most proud of yourself either as a role model or when you displayed your leadership. What specific skills did you contribute to the experience? How did others rely on you for guidance? What did you learn about yourself during this time?

    Up to 120 words

  • Describe a goal that you have set and the steps you will take to achieve it. What made you set this goal for yourself? What is your timeline to achieve this goal? Who do you seek encouragement or guidance from and how do they support your progress as you work on this goal?

    Up to 120 words

  • Virginia Tech's motto is "Ut Prosim" which means 'That I May Serve'. Share how you contribute to a community that is important to you. How long have you been involved? What have you learned and how would you like to share that with others at Virginia Tech?

    Up to 120 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from vt.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $36,951. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $24,953.

The Virginia Tech Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships provides information on undergraduate expenses and financial aid.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $81,698.

Verified from vt.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Computer and Information Sciences, General6% of degrees
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods6% of degrees
  • Finance and Financial Management Services4% of degrees
  • Mechanical Engineering4% of degrees
  • Biology, General4% of degrees
  • Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services3% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Attend a club meeting, volunteer with VT Engage, then cheer on fellow Hokies at an NCAA game, a Tuesday here is full of connection and service.”

Hokies build community by fusing their passions with others, finding their place through GobblerConnect and immersing themselves in Hokie Nation.

Service-orientedCommunity-focusedSports-centric

Quick answers

What do people ask about Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?

Is Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University test-optional?
For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is optional.
How hard is it to get into Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?
Very hard. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University admits 54.8% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1280 to 1450 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University cost?
The list price is about $36,951. After aid, families pay $24,953 on average.
Is Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $81,698 ten years after enrolling. 86% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Spike answers from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.