Southern Virginia University
SVU
Buena Vista, Virginia 24416
Data last updated: May 29, 2026
Campus Vibe
Known for business — close-knit campus
Southern Virginia University is a private institution in Buena Vista with particular strength in business and psychology. With an average SAT of 1099, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 967 undergraduates with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
38% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $50,002 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $24,014.
Plan Your Visit
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1099
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
44.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
5.0%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$14,250
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
5
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Programs (19)
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
82%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Knights
History & Fun Facts
- •Rowe moved the school to Buena Vista in 1900, and changed its name to Southern Seminary.
- •Durham and Robey added college-level courses to the school's curriculum, and the first class of the new junior college program graduated in 1925.
- •In 1959, the Robeys turned over the ownership of the college to a board of trustees and the institution changed from proprietary to nonprofit status.
Source: Wikipedia
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from VA state average
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
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