Northern Virginia Community College vs Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $99,812 in 3 years versus 3.8 years at Northern Virginia Community College, on median earnings of $81,698 vs $53,557 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Northern Virginia Community College | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $9,919 | $24,953 |
| Total net cost | $19,838 | $99,812 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $53,557 | $81,698 |
| Median debt | $11,000 | $21,500 |
| Payback | 3.8 yrs | 3 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $84,102 | $566,948 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.