James Madison University and Southern Virginia University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. JMU is a four-year, public school located in Harrisonburg, VA and SVU is a four-year, private (not-for-profit) school located in Buena Vista, VA.
The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.
| James Madison University | vs. | Southern Virginia University |
|---|---|---|
| Harrisonburg, Virginia | Location | Buena Vista, Virginia |
| Four-year, Public | School Type | four-year, Private (not-for-profit) |
| Doctor's degree | Highest Degree Offered | Bachelor's degree |
| Research University (high research activity) | Carnegie Classification | Baccalaureate College - Arts & Sciences |
In-State$13,966
Out-Of-State$31,312 | 2025 Tuition & Fees | $21,030 |
| 42% | % Receiving Financial Aid | 99% |
| $10,140 | Average Amount of Financial Aid | $10,839 |
| 71.52 % | Acceptance Rates | 96.42 % |
| 18.16 % | Yield (Enrollment Rates) | 21.44 % |
| 1,250 | SAT Score | - |
| 27 | ACT Score | - |
| 80 % | Graduation Rate | 33 % |
| - | Transfer-out Rate | 24 % |
| 92 % | Retention Rate | 74 % |
| 22,740 | Student Population | 936 |
| 1,048 | Number of Faculties | 53 |
| 17 to 1 | Students to Faculty Ratio | 14 to 1 |
| Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Teacher Certification | Special Learning Opportunities | Study Abroad, Teacher Certification |
| Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services | On Campus Student Services | Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services |