
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
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 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University’s admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Getting in is the hard part. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University admitted 54.8% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.
Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: 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, but they do not decide it.
The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.
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.
The essays
Supplemental essay prompts
The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will 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 you will actually pay
The sticker price is about $36,951, but that is not 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.
Campus life
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.
Quick answers
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University FAQ
- 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, and 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, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $24,953.
- Is Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $81,698 ten years after enrolling, and 86% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly 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. Join the waitlist to get in early.
One email when Spike opens. No card, no account. About the waitlist.