Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Shepherd University vs West Virginia University

Shepherdstown, WV · Morgantown, WV · Source: IPEDS federal database

Shepherd UniversityWest Virginia University
Acceptance Rate95.6%86.3%
In-State Tuition$8,642$9,648
Out-of-State Tuition$19,082$27,360
Average Net Price$12,651$13,691
Graduation Rate49.0%61.0%

GradFax Analysis

Shepherd University accepts 95.6% of applicants. West Virginia University accepts 86.3%. Tuition is close: $8,642 at Shepherd University, $9,648 at West Virginia University. Shepherd University graduates 49% of students in 6 years. West Virginia University graduates 61%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Shepherd University profileWest Virginia University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Shepherd University or West Virginia University?

West Virginia University. It accepts 86.3% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Shepherd University or West Virginia University more affordable?

Shepherd University, on average. After aid, students pay $12,651/year versus $13,691/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

West Virginia University: 61% of students finish in 6 years. Shepherd University is at 49%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Shepherd University vs West Virginia University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax