Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs University of Virginia-Main Campus: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Virginia-Main Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $86,260 in 2.2 years versus 3 years at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, on median earnings of $86,863 vs $81,698 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | University of Virginia-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $24,953 | $21,565 |
| Total net cost | $99,812 | $86,260 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $81,698 | $86,863 |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $17,500 |
| Payback | 3 yrs | 2.2 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $566,948 | $683,800 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs University of Virginia-Main Campus: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or University of Virginia-Main Campus a better value?
University of Virginia-Main Campus. It clears its $86,260 net cost in about 2.2 years versus 3 years at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, on median earnings of $86,863 vs $81,698 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or University of Virginia-Main Campus?
University of Virginia-Main Campus: $21,565/yr net price after aid versus $24,953/yr at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University — a difference of $3,388 a year, or about $13,552 over four years.
Do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn more?
University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn a median $86,863 ten years after entry, versus $81,698 at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University — a $5,165 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.