Southern Virginia University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Southern Virginia’s 96.6% acceptance rate means your plan should focus on fit and preparation, not just getting admitted. Since the school is test-optional, you do not need scores to apply, but an SAT around 1100 or higher can give you a stronger academic signal within its 900–1250 middle range.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Southern Virginia University facts and stats
Southern Virginia University enrolls 936 undergraduate students in a small-town setting. Southern Virginia has a 74% freshman retention rate, above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 31%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1.
Buena Vista, VA
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Key Southern Virginia University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
August 1
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
April 15
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
Southern Virginia is test-optional, so use this timeline only if you choose to submit SAT or ACT scores. Take your first test by the spring of junior year, then reserve the summer before senior year for retakes that could improve your superscore; fall senior-year retakes will not arrive in time for the August 1 Regular Decision deadline.
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What you'll actually pay
Southern Virginia is a private not-for-profit, so the same rate applies to all students. Tuition and fees are $21,280, with an average merit award of $5,874 and 70% of students receiving aid. Submit the FAFSA by the April 15 priority deadline to be considered for financial aid.
Southern Virginia’s estimated cost of attendance is $31,538, including $21,280 in tuition and fees and $10,258 for room and board. About 70% of students receive financial aid, with an average aid package of $9,422. The average merit award is $5,874, which can help reduce the amount families pay out of pocket. Students graduate with an average debt of $15,444.
Student life at Southern Virginia University
65% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Priority
No fraternity or sorority life on campus.
Similar schools
Averett University
Danville, VAAcceptance rate: 56.6%
SAT: 850–1170
ACT: 15–28
Bluefield University
Bluefield, VAAcceptance rate: 59.3%
Blue Ridge Community College, Virginia
Weyers Cave, VAAcceptance rate: 47.8%
Bridgewater College
Bridgewater, VAAcceptance rate: 91.7%
SAT: 1010–1390
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