The birthplace of more founding fathers and presidents than any other state, Virginia is also home to some of the nation's distinguished colleges. Many colleges in the Old Dominion offer online degrees to meet the demand for more flexible higher education.
And you won't be alone! Many of Virginia's college students are enrolled in online degree programs. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 35% of undergraduates in Virginia enrolled exclusively in distance education courses in 2021.
Interested in learning more about online colleges in Virginia? This guide can help you find a school and learn how to finance your college education in Virginia.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Programs
Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.
Most Affordable Online Colleges in Virginia
Read About Our Methodology
#1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
George Mason University
- Fairfax, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $575-$1,048
Out-of-State | $1,582-$1,741
Credits to Graduate: 120-126
George Mason University operates a virtual college with more than 50 online programs. You can pursue bachelor's degrees in study areas such as health, business and management, and engineering and technology.
Fully online social science degrees include a BS/BA in psychology and a BA in criminology, law, and society. George Mason also offers a two-year bachelor of applied science with concentrations in cybersecurity; technology and innovation; and health, wellness, and social services.
As an online learner, you'll have access to comprehensive financial aid, including scholarships and grants.
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $393
Out-of-State | $426
Credits to Graduate: 120
A leader in distance learning, Old Dominion University offers 120 programs online with an emphasis on flexibility and affordability. The ODUGlobal catalog includes both four-year bachelor's degrees and degree completion programs. Major options include business administration, computer engineering, and health services administration.
ODU keeps tuition simple with a flat tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state online learners.
Active duty service members can enjoy a steep tuition discount, paying just $250 per credit no matter where they live. As an online learner, you may also qualify for scholarships.
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
Mary Baldwin University
- Staunton, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $460
Out-of-State | $460
Credits to Graduate: 120
Mary Baldwin University is a small private college with campuses in Staunton and Fishersville. Online programs at MBU include bachelor's degree programs that prepare you for criminal justice, health administration, social work, and nursing careers.
If you're interested in a customizable major, the BA in liberal arts and interdisciplinary studies program offers two tracks in humanities and education. You pay the same tuition regardless of in-state or out-of-state residency status. About 95% of MBU students receive some form of financial aid.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
Radford University
- Radford, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $261-501
Out-of-State | $280-520
Credits to Graduate: 120
Radford University designs programs for first-year students and degree completers. The bachelor's of business administration and BS in emergency services programs allow you to earn your degree faster by transferring credits or an associate degree.
Radford University also offers a BS in public health, health sciences, and healthcare administration. Students who already hold RN licensure can complete the online RN-to-BSN program in just 10 months.
Some programs also offer a hybrid option. You can expect to pay relatively affordable tuition rates, and financial aid includes scholarships and grants for freshman and transfer students.
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How Much Is Online College in Virginia?
The cost of attending college in Virginia varies by institution, your state residency status, and the program you plan to pursue. For the 2020-2021 school year, students paid an average of $13,931 in in-state tuition and fees at Virginia's public four-year colleges, according to NCES data. Out-of-state students attending public colleges paid $36,193 in tuition and fees that same year.
Cost of College in Virginia (2020-21)
| Institution Type |
Average Tuition & Required Fees |
| Public, Four-Year (In-state) |
$13,931 |
| Public, Four-Year (Out-of-state) |
$36,193 |
| Private, Four-Year |
$23,220 |
Source: NCES
How to Pay for Online College
A 2023 Sallie Mae report finds that families spent an average of $28,026 on college tuition and expenses in 2022-2023. While online colleges in Virginia can be more affordable than their on-campus counterparts, you still need to fund your education.
Financial aid, such as scholarships and grants, can help cover your online education costs. Compare the various options as you make a plan to pay for college.
Apply for the FAFSA
Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to determining your eligibility for financial aid. The federal government, states, and public and private colleges use FAFSA information to calculate financial aid packages.
You can use scholarships, grants, and federal loans to pay for degrees at accredited online colleges in Virginia. Visit the FAFSA website to learn about deadlines and other pertinent information.
Start With Scholarships and Grants
Before you consider taking out student loans, you should start by applying for scholarships and grants. You never need to pay back this form of financial aid, which can significantly reduce the debt you may owe from loans.
You can source scholarship and grant opportunities from financial aid offices, foundations, and federal agency websites. You can even look for state-specific grants and scholarships in Virginia, like the Virginia Tuition Assistance Program grant.
Consider Using Your Income and Savings
A Sallie Mae study explored how families paid for college in 2023. Parents used their income and savings to pay for 40% of college costs, while student income and savings accounted for 10% of college costs.
This means half of all college costs were covered by personal and family income and savings in 2023. Many students also choose to work part-time in college, which can help you reduce your debt burden.
Take Out Student Loans
Not every student has the privilege of relying on their family's income to help pay for school, which is why the next step for many is taking out student loans. Student loans paid for about 11% of college tuition and expenses in 2021-22.
To pay for your degree, you can borrow money from the federal government or private lenders, such as banks and companies. Federal loan programs offer key benefits that private loans don't, such as lower interest rates, flexible repayment plans, and debt forgiveness. For these reasons, it's best to start with federal loans.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Programs
Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.
Scholarships and Grants for Virginia Students
If you're planning to attend an online college in Virginia, you should explore scholarships and grants as a first means to pay for your degree. Eligibility requirements and deadlines will vary.
Degree-seekers from single-income homes and first-generation students can apply for this Ryan Green-sponsored scholarship. You must have a minimum 2.0 GPA and reside in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Delaware, or New Jersey. The deadline is Nov. 30, 2023.
Award Amount: $1,000
The sponsors award this scholarship to female, first-generation college students. You must live in Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, or Pennsylvania. To qualify, you must submit an essay outlining your potential. The annual scholarship deadline varies.
Award Amount: $1,000
The VTSLP program provides funding for enrollees planning to pursue a teaching career in a shortage area. You must be enrolled in an approved teacher preparation program at a regionally accredited Virginia college.
You must have a minimum 2.7 GPA and receive a nomination by your college. Submit an application directly to your school. The application deadline varies.
Award Amount: Up to $10,000
VTAG awards grant funding to full-time students attending a participating private college or university in Virginia. You must reside in Virginia for at least one year prior to a VTAG award. You submit VTAG applications to your school's financial aid office. The next deadline is December 1, 2023.
Award Amount: Residential $5,000, Online $2,500
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Virginia
What is the cheapest online college in Virginia?
Old Dominion University (ODU) and Norfolk State University (NSU) claim the top spots for the cheapest online colleges in Virginia. ODU, which has an extensive catalog of online degrees, charges undergraduates $393 for in-state online tuition and $426 for out-of-state tuition.
NSU charges undergraduates $450 for in-state tuition and $973 for out-of-state tuition. NCES data shows a $16,098 annual net price to attend ODU compared to $11,872 at NSU.
Note: We only considered colleges that offered at least five undergraduate programs online.
How many colleges are in Virginia?
NCES data shows 56 public and private four-year colleges in Virginia and 29 public and private community colleges. The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) consists of 23 public two-year colleges across the state.
Many four-year colleges offer online programs. VCCS schools offer online degrees through the College Anywhere VA platform.
Is community college free in Virginia?
Yes, community colleges in Virginia offer free tuition for qualifying students. Low-income and middle-income Virginia students pursuing education in high-demand fields may qualify for free tuition through the "Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back" program.
The funding covers tuition, fees, and books if you're pursuing a degree in fields such as IT and healthcare. You can save money by completing programs at a community college and transferring your credits to four-year colleges.
Does UVA offer online college degrees?
Yes, the University of Virginia offers 297 courses, certificates, and degrees online. However, the selection of online bachelor's degrees is limited. UVA offers online bachelor's programs in health sciences management and interdisciplinary studies.
Is online college cheaper?
Online college is often the more affordable route compared to traditional college. Many colleges charge cheaper tuition for online degrees than the same program delivered on campus. Furthermore, some schools actually waive out-of-state tuition and fees for online learners.
Another benefit of online learning is that you don't need not pay for expenses such as transportation, childcare, and relocation costs. You can also continue your career as you pursue a degree. All of this can add up to big savings and less debt.
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