Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University is a private university in Virginia Beach, Virginia, known for its 300-acre park-like campus, a liberal arts and sciences approach, strong campus life and a growing emphasis on experiential learning.

For students planning the September 2026 intake, Virginia Wesleyan can be a strong fit if you want a coastal campus, generous student involvement, strong internship access, and a supportive environment that combines academics with service and sustainability.

Quick Facts

Detail	Information
Institution type	Private university
Main location	Virginia Beach, Virginia
Popular intake	September 2026
Known for	Liberal arts and sciences, internships and campus life
Campus size	300 acres
Student body	More than 4,500 learners in all programs
Residential profile	Most full-time students live on campus
Student support	Advising, career development, residence life and student engagement
Name change	Becomes Batten University on July 1, 2026

Why Virginia Wesleyan Can Be A Good Fit

Virginia Wesleyan is a good option for students who want a lively residential campus with a strong connection to the Coast Virginia region. The university emphasizes environmental stewardship, service, leadership and hands-on learning.

It is also attractive for students who like a blended campus lifestyle. You can study, get involved in clubs, use strong student support services and still be close to the ocean, business district and cultural institutions.

2026 Tuition Snapshot

Virginia Wesleyan publishes 2026-27 tuition and fee information, which is useful for students planning a September 2026 start.

Study level or route	Indicative 2026 fee pattern	Notes
Traditional day student	USD 38,776 annually	Includes electronic textbooks
First-year resident total direct cost	USD 54,592	Includes tuition, fees, food and housing
First-year resident total cost	USD 59,324	Includes indirect costs
Student engagement fee	USD 250	Day students only
Technology fee	USD 700	Day students only

Admission Snapshot

Area	What students should check
Academic requirement	Depends on programme and student background
Application route	VWU application and admissions process
Housing	Most students live on campus
English requirement	Required for international applicants
Financial aid	Merit scholarships, grants and work-study are available
Start date	September 2026 is the main planning intake
Name on arrival	Students starting after July 1, 2026 may see the Batten University name

Campus And Student Life

Campus life is one of VWU's biggest strengths. Students have access to 50+ clubs and organizations, 22 varsity sports, the Batten Student Center, rec and wellness spaces, counseling and a strong culture of engagement.

The location also stands out. Virginia Beach gives students access to the Atlantic Ocean, the Chesapeake Bay and a large metropolitan region with plenty of professional and cultural opportunities.

Who Should Consider Virginia Wesleyan?

Virginia Wesleyan can suit students who want:

• A September 2026 US intake
• A coastal Virginia campus
• Residential university life
• Strong student engagement and internships
• A liberal arts and sciences environment
• A focus on service and sustainability
• A welcoming and supportive campus

Things To Check Before Applying

Before finalising Virginia Wesleyan, students should confirm:

• The exact programme and level of study
• Tuition, fees and housing totals
• Merit scholarship and aid options
• Housing expectations
• International admissions requirements
• The July 2026 name change to Batten University

Virginia Wesleyan University is especially popular with students who want a coastal campus, strong involvement opportunities and a liberal arts education with practical learning.

Key Highlights

Popular for	Why students choose it
Coastal Virginia location	Beach, bay and metro-region access
Campus life	50+ clubs and organizations
Residential feel	Most students live on campus
Internships	Strong regional internship access
Service and sustainability	Community-minded learning environment
Athletics and activities	22 varsity sports and active student life
Financial aid	Merit aid and work-study options
Small-campus support	Personal attention and student services

Why Students Choose VWU

VWU appeals to students who want a college experience that feels active and connected to place. The campus is beautiful, the area is lively and the university makes it easy to be involved beyond the classroom.

The school also has a clear practical side. Students can access internships, career development support and study opportunities tied to the Hampton Roads region and beyond.

Best Fit For September 2026

VWU is a good match for students planning the September 2026 intake if they want:

• A residential coastal campus
• Strong extracurricular life
• Internship and career development support
• A liberal arts and sciences focus
• Environmental and community-minded values
• A university that feels active but not overwhelming

Useful To Know

Virginia Wesleyan notes that it will become Batten University on July 1, 2026. That means September 2026 students should expect the new name to be in effect when they arrive.