PrivateTownSouthern Virginia University
SVU
Buena Vista, Virginia 24416
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
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.
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
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1099
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
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
Programs (19)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
82%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
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).
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
Plan Your Visit
Days out near Buena Vista
NewTwo or three colleges you can see in one day around Staunton, from real bookable tour times.
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