University of the Virgin Islands
Acceptance rate
99.0%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$16,557
In-state $5,957
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
1,569
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
9.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 25.6%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) is a prominent institution of higher education located in the beautiful Caribbean region, specifically in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Established in 1962, UVI plays a significant role in the educational landscape of the Virgin Islands, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university's mission is to provide quality education, foster research and community engagement, and promote economic development in the territory. With its picturesque campuses on St. Thomas and St. Croix, UVI provides students with a unique learning environment enriched by the beauty of the surrounding waters and vibrant cultural heritage.
UVI is known for its commitment to student success and community involvement, which is reflected in its motto, "To be and to make a difference." The university emphasizes a strong sense of community and encourages students to engage in service-learning projects that benefit the local population. UVI boasts a dedicated faculty with a wealth of experience and knowledge, who are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational atmosphere. The university also promotes a vibrant campus life, offering various extracurricular activities, athletic programs, and cultural events that enhance the overall student experience. Moreover, UVI has established partnerships with various organizations and institutions, facilitating internships and job opportunities for its graduates, thereby contributing to a positive employment outlook in the region.
Analysis of Key Metrics at the University of the Virgin Islands
The University of the Virgin Islands, a public institution, has demonstrated notable trends across several key metrics over the years. One significant area of concern is the tuition rates, which have seen a steady increase, particularly for out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for out-of-state undergraduates rose from approximately $13,174 to $15,521, reflecting a near 17.5% increase. This trend may impact the university's ability to attract students from outside the state, especially in a competitive educational landscape where affordability is often a deciding factor.
Another critical metric is the graduation rate, which has been fluctuating considerably. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates peaked at approximately 12.9% in 2014 but has since dipped, reaching just 7.5% in 2023. This decline raises questions about the support systems in place for students and the overall academic environment. Similarly, the 150% graduation rate showed variability, indicating that while some students may take longer to graduate, a larger percentage fails to complete their degrees altogether.
The student retention rate has similarly shown a troubling decline, from 70% in 2013 to around 66% in 2023. This drop suggests challenges in student satisfaction or engagement, which could correlate with the rising tuition burdens. Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio has worsened, falling from 12 students per faculty member in 2013 to just 8 by 2023. While a lower ratio can be positive in terms of individual attention, the declining number of total students could strain faculty resources and affect the quality of education.
In summary, while the University of the Virgin Islands remains a public institution with significant potential, the trends in tuition, graduation rates, retention, and student-faculty ratios highlight areas needing strategic intervention to enhance student outcomes and institutional sustainability.
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- San Juan, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU), about 70 mi
- Also known as
- UVI
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Safiya George (President)
- Phone
- 3407769200
- Address
- 2 John Brewers Bay, Charlotte Amalie, VI 00802-9990
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 99.1%, women 97.9%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at the University of the Virgin Islands
The admission data from the University of the Virgin Islands reveals intriguing trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Over the years, the acceptance rate for male applicants has shown a remarkable improvement, peaking at nearly 99.5% in 2021, which is indicative of a more inclusive admission policy. In contrast, the acceptance rates for female applicants have also remained high, with a maximum of approximately 99.8% in the same year. This trend highlights the university's commitment to gender parity in its admissions process.
Interestingly, the enrollment numbers have fluctuated, with the highest recorded enrollment being 596 in 2009. However, the subsequent years show a decline in enrollment, reaching a low of 232 in 2022. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including demographic shifts and changing perceptions of higher education value, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional schooling and led to a reevaluation of educational pathways.
Moreover, the data indicates a significant number of deferrals in recent years, particularly in 2016, where 649 students deferred their admission. This trend may reflect a growing preference for taking a gap year or the impacts of external factors such as economic uncertainty. Overall, while the University of the Virgin Islands demonstrates a strong commitment to accepting students, the fluctuations in enrollment and deferral rates warrant further investigation into the underlying causes and potential implications for future academic years.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 17% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at the University of the Virgin Islands
The data from the University of the Virgin Islands reveals a noteworthy trend in admission test scores and submission rates over the years. Particularly, the number of students submitting SAT scores has varied significantly, with a peak of 439 submissions in 2011, which accounted for 88% of the admitted students. However, there has been a noticeable decline in recent years, with only 90 submissions in 2023, representing just 36% of the admitted cohort.
The SAT reading and mathematics scores have also shown fluctuations. For instance, the 25th percentile reading score started at 360 in 2007 and reached a high of 440 in 2022, while the 75th percentile score increased from 460 to 540 during the same period. This indicates a gradual improvement in the performance of admitted students in these sections of the SAT.
On the other hand, the ACT submission rates tell a different story. In 2019 and 2020, no ACT scores were provided, which raises concerns about the overall accessibility and appeal of the ACT in the region. The limited number of submissions could reflect a broader trend of students opting for the SAT instead, possibly influenced by preparatory resources or institutional preferences.
The implications of these trends are significant, particularly in the context of the ongoing discussions around college admissions processes and the importance of standardized testing. As universities increasingly evaluate holistic admissions policies, it will be critical for the University of the Virgin Islands to continue monitoring these metrics to ensure they attract a diverse and high-achieving student body. Overall, the data highlights both challenges and opportunities for the institution as it navigates the evolving landscape of higher education admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
977 applicants in 2025, 99.0% admitted
967 admitted 10 not admitted Yield 35.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's14 (14% international)
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research, Other · Master's13 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral13 (0% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's11 (0% international)
- Social Work · Master's4 (0% international)
- Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from the University of the Virgin Islands
The graduation data from the University of the Virgin Islands reveals interesting trends across various programs in 2023. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 26 graduates, comprising five international students. This highlights the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, a trend that has been accelerated by the ongoing global health crisis.
In the field of education, there are significant numbers in various specializations, such as Elementary Education and Teaching, which yielded eight graduates, including one international student. However, the Educational Leadership and Administration program is noteworthy for producing 13 master's graduates, of which three are international students, indicating a robust interest in developing leadership skills within the education sector.
Interestingly, the Criminal Justice program had 15 graduates, all domestic, reflecting a continued interest in law enforcement and public safety careers. Conversely, the Business Administration tracks, while having a lower graduate count, still produced a notable number of graduates, including four in Accounting, with one international student.
The data also shows some programs, especially in the sciences and other disciplines, with no or minimal graduate numbers, suggesting either a lack of enrollment or perhaps a focus on other more popular disciplines. Additionally, the presence of international students in various programs, albeit limited, underscores the university's potential as a hub for attracting global talent, particularly in fields like education and healthcare.
Overall, the data illustrates a diverse educational landscape at the University of the Virgin Islands, with certain programs actively contributing to the workforce while others may need strategic enhancements to attract more students.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | - | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $58,241 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - | ||||
| Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Resources Conservation and Research, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Process Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
Students
1,792 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 32:68 · Freshman retention 68.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,107
- First-year undergraduates 297
- Graduate students 223
- Transfers and others 165
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,569)
Data insights
Demographic Insights at the University of the Virgin Islands 2023
The enrollment statistics for the University of the Virgin Islands in 2023 showcase a diverse student body with a significant representation of female students across various categories. Among the first-time freshmen, there are 251 students, with a striking 69.7% being female. This trend continues among the returning undergraduates, where 73.3% of the 1008 students are also female. The data indicates a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment relative to male students, which can be seen across all categories, including transfer and graduate students.
Interestingly, the graduate students, numbering 258, show the lowest male representation at just 21.3%. This gender imbalance could reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where more women are pursuing advanced degrees.
The ethnic composition of the student population reveals a rich tapestry of backgrounds, although detailed breakdowns are limited. The statistics point to a growing need for diversity and inclusion initiatives within the university, particularly in ensuring that all racial and ethnic groups are adequately represented and supported.
The overall figures suggest that the University of the Virgin Islands is fostering an environment that may be particularly welcoming to female students, which is a positive development for gender equity in higher education. However, it also prompts an essential discussion on how institutions can better engage male students and support underrepresented groups, ensuring a balanced and inclusive academic community moving forward.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at the University of the Virgin Islands
The age distribution of students at the University of the Virgin Islands highlights a predominantly young demographic, with the majority of undergraduates falling within the 18-24 age range. This is reflective of a typical university population, where individuals often enter higher education shortly after completing high school. The data reveals that students aged 18-19 constitute approximately 35% of the total student body, followed closely by those aged 20-21, who make up about 33%.
Interestingly, the number of older students (ages 25 and above) is significantly lower, indicating that the university may appeal more to traditional college-aged students. Only 10% of students are in the 30-34 age bracket, and even fewer, around 5% are aged 35-39. These figures suggest that the institution may need to consider strategies to attract non-traditional students, a demographic that has been on the rise in many universities across the United States and globally.
Moreover, the data shows a notable gender disparity with a higher number of female students overall. For instance, in the age group of 18-19, females outnumber males by more than two to one, a trend that continues across other age categories. This could mirror broader educational trends where female enrollment has been increasing in recent years.
Overall, the age and gender composition at the University of the Virgin Islands reflects key trends in the higher education landscape, emphasizing the need for targeted initiatives to support a diverse range of students, particularly older learners who may benefit from flexible learning options.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
112 in 2025 · 5.6% in 2016
26 in 2025 · 12.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of the Virgin Islands
The data reflecting international student enrollment at the University of the Virgin Islands reveals several significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students fluctuated, peaking in 2010 with 2,431 students, while the number of international undergraduates has generally seen a steady decline in the past decade, dropping from 172 in 2011 to just 75 in 2023. The percentage of international undergraduates has similarly decreased, moving from a high of 8.39% in 2005 to 5.44% in 2023.
For graduate students, there has also been a notable fluctuation. The peak year was 2017, with 32 international graduate students, and the percentage of international graduate students reached its highest at 21.71% in 2004. However, by 2023, this percentage had declined to 10.08%, reflecting a broader trend of decreasing international representation.
These trends may indicate challenges the university faces in attracting international students, possibly due to factors such as global competition, visa restrictions, and economic uncertainties. The COVID-19 pandemic may also have impacted enrollment figures, as seen in the significant drop in overall student numbers during 2021 and 2022.
As universities worldwide navigate these challenges, it will be crucial for institutions like the University of the Virgin Islands to implement strategies that enhance their appeal to international students. This could involve improving support services, increasing scholarship offerings, and promoting the unique cultural and academic experiences available at the university.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$28,057
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $16,557
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,957
- Room and board
- $11,500
- Graduate tuition
- $15,716
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 20% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 16%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$97.6M
Expenses$117M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Gulf Coast Athletic Conference
Gulf Coast Athletic Conference: basketball, cross country
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 13 | 11 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 4 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 5 | 2 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 11 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 3 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 4 | 2 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 10 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of the Virgin Islands:
-
University of Miami - Ranked 67th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is located in Miami, Florida. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its vibrant campus life and strong research initiatives.
-
Florida International University - With a ranking of 124, this comprehensive university serves a diverse student body and is committed to academic excellence and innovation. Located in Miami, it offers numerous degree programs across various fields.
-
Nova Southeastern University - Ranked 227th, this comprehensive university focuses on research and offers a variety of professional degree programs, particularly in health sciences and education.
-
University of Florida - This prestigious institution is ranked 28th and is known for its strong academic programs, research output, and vibrant campus community in Gainesville, Florida.
-
University of North Carolina Wilmington - Ranked 201, this comprehensive university offers a beautiful coastal campus and a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are located within a reasonable distance from the University of the Virgin Islands.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at the University of the Virgin Islands
The data on campus misconduct and crime rates at the University of the Virgin Islands presents a notable downward trend from 2013 to 2023. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was 9.16, reflecting a concerning environment for student safety. However, there has been a significant decrease over the years, culminating in a crime rate of only 2.08 in 2023, indicating a positive movement towards a safer campus.
Particularly striking is the year 2021, which recorded no reported crimes, a remarkable achievement that underscores effective safety measures and community efforts. The reduction in incidents related to gun arrests and domestic violence illustrates a successful initiative in addressing these critical issues.
Despite this progress, some incidents, particularly related to drug arrests and theft, have persisted in the later years, highlighting that challenges remain. Continued vigilance and proactive strategies will be essential in maintaining and further improving campus safety.
This trend mirrors broader national movements in university safety, where institutions are increasingly prioritizing student welfare through enhanced security measures and awareness programs. As universities continue to adapt to evolving challenges, the commitment to fostering a safe educational environment remains paramount.
For more information on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of the Virgin Islands include Max Brooks (Writer and actor, son of Mel Brooks), Albert Bryan Jr. (Ninth Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands) and Andrew Fahie (Former Premier of the British Virgin Islands).
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Max Brooks 1972–
Writer and actor, son of Mel Brooks
-
Albert Bryan Jr. 1968–
Ninth Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands
-
Andrew Fahie 1970–
Former Premier of the British Virgin Islands
-
Kenneth Mapp 1955–
Former Governor of the US Virgin Islands
-
Silveria Jacobs 1968–
Former Prime Minister of Sint Maarten
-
Victor Banks 1947–
Former Premier of Anguilla
-
Osbert Potter 1956–
11th Lieutenant Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands
-
Rhoda Arrindell 1956–
Sint Maarten linguist and independence advocate
-
Gregory Francis 1951–
Former lieutenant governor of the US Virgin Islands
More alumni (2, by field)
Politics and law
-
Janice Daniel-Hodge 1962–
Banker and politician of Saint Kitts and Nevis
-
Shawn Richards 1972–
Former Deputy Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.