You would borrow a median $17,500 — about $199 a month for ten years. Graduates earn a median $86,863 ten years after starting, so the debt clears in roughly 0.4 years of the salary premium.
Yes — on the federal figures this is one of the fastest-paying degrees in the country.
Under roughly 15% of gross pay, repayment is generally considered manageable alongside rent and living costs.
Every dollar you win is a dollar you never repay — and it moves the 0.4-year payback above. We list 1 scholarship tied to University of Virginia.
See all 1 University of Virginia scholarships →Tell us what you need and we will come back with the lenders that actually fund students from your country — including options with no US co-signer. No obligation, and we never charge you.
The typical graded university clears its debt in 1.3 years on median earnings of $57,146 against $22,500 of debt. University of Virginia clears its debt faster than that, and its graduates earn $47,343 a year more than a US worker with only a high-school diploma.
| Nearby university | Grade | Debt | Earnings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington & Lee University Virginia | A | $19,500 | $94,810 | 0.4 yrs |
| George Mason University Virginia | A | $19,500 | $76,343 | 0.5 yrs |
| University of Richmond Virginia | A | $21,000 | $76,178 | 0.6 yrs |
| Virginia Military Institute Virginia | B | $22,996 | $77,369 | 0.6 yrs |
| James Madison University Virginia | B | $20,093 | $69,954 | 0.7 yrs |
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard — earnings and debt cover students who received federal financial aid and blend every subject taught at the institution. Figures imported 28 Aug 2026. This page is information, not financial advice.