Virginia State University Positioned To Remain One Of Virginia’s Most Affordable Public Universities Following Tuition, Fees, And Housing Rate Increases

The decision allows VSU to meet continued inflationary pressures while keeping a high-quality public education accessible and affordable for students and families.

The Virginia State University Board of Visitors has approved adjustments to undergraduate and graduate tuition, fees, and room and board rates for in-state and out-of-state students for the 2026–27 academic year.

The adjustment includes a 2.5% increase in tuition and mandatory fees (a yearly total of $261) and a 5% increase in room and board (a yearly total of $643). These changes are designed to address continued inflationary pressures affecting utilities, technology, food services, labor, and other operational costs.

Even with this adjustment, VSU expects to remain one of the most affordable public universities in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

According to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia’s (SCHEV) Tuition and Fees Report for FY 2025–2026, VSU has the lowest total in-state cost (tuition and mandatory fees) among Virginia’s public four-year institutions. The University’s in-state total cost is also significantly below the statewide average and lower than many peer institutions across the Commonwealth.

"Virginia State University will always be committed to offering an educational experience that is both accessible and affordable while meeting the highest standards of quality,” said Kevin Davenport, Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration. "While rising operational costs require careful adjustments, we have worked diligently to ensure that VSU continues to offer one of the most affordable pathways to a high-quality public university education in Virginia.”

“We understand how any increase can affect students, and that was part of our discussion,” said SGA President Marquise Mason. “While this is not a huge increase, it allows the University to keep its doors open, continue growing, and provide Greater opportunities and experiences for students. Even with this adjustment, we’re still among the most affordable institutions in Virginia.”

University leadership has emphasized that the planned increase was carefully calibrated to minimize the impact on students and families while preserving academic quality, student support services, campus safety, and infrastructure improvements.

Virginia State University will continue to explore ways to expand scholarship opportunities, strengthen financial aid support, and pursue operational efficiencies to reduce financial barriers wherever possible. The increase will be effective beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.