VMI is more than a place - it is a way of life. Even in name, post is not just any college campus. It is a place where future leaders are forged. A visit to VMI is always inspiring, and can be life-changing.

The Institute has a distinguished past, present, and future. With it’s founding in 1839, VMI’s barracks was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966, and post (campus) was named a National Historic District in 1974. Today, it continues to be the training ground for tomorrow’s leaders producing noble and highly capable graduates sought after by post-graduate academic programs, military sectors, and civilian employers of the like. VMI’s unique educational system prepares individuals not only academically, but to know the importance of public service and duty to fellow citizens. The VMI alumni network is one of the strongest in the nation, and expands globally.  

VMI Open Houses are the best way for high school juniors and seniors to see and experience first-hand what it's like being a cadet at VMI. This 2-day program is designed to be informational for both students and their parent(s)/guardian(s). Students will learn about all aspects of the VMI experience and stay overnight in Barracks with a current cadet as a host. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will join their student for information sessions and have a Q&A session with parents of current cadets. 

Sample Open House Itinerary

Please note that the overnight stay and overall itinerary are subject to change if unforeseen circumstances impact the event. Should any changes occur to a specific Open House program, all registered participants will be notified. Please read through our frequently asked questions and contact the Open House team at openhouse@vmi.edu if you have any questions.

Fall 2025 Open House registration is now open!

Choose your weekend from the options below. Please note, registration will close two days before the first day of each weekend - OR - when there are no remaining spaces. Register early to secure your spot.

You can find more upcoming events from VMI Admissions at events.vmi.edu.

Personal Interview

Personal interviews are a great opportunity to speak one-on-one with an admissions counselor and learn how a VMI education can benefit you. Sign up today to speak with a member of our staff in-person or over Zoom.

Group Visits

Are you looking to bring a group to VMI to learn more about the Institute with insight from our Admissions team? If so, please complete the registration form and we will be in touch to schedule your visit.

Tour VMI's Historic Post

Cadet Guided Post Tours are available daily. Anyone interested in taking a 40-50 minute walking tour of the historic VMI Post can gather in the lobby of the VMI Museum (2nd floor, Memorial Hall) at 12:15 p.m. No reservations are necessary unless there is a large group.  Please call the VMI Museum at 540-464-7334 if you would like to schedule a large group for the tour.

Summer Semester 2025 Tours will be available during the two sessions: 

• Session I: May 20 - June 18 
• Session II: June 24 - July 23, except July 7
• Note: Tour guides may not be available every day during the summer sessions. Please call 540-464-7334 to confirm availability within 3 days of your visit.

Fall Semester 2025:  Daily August 26 - December 11. No tours on the following dates: 

• Thanksgiving, November 23 - 30    
• Final Exams and Winter Furlough  December 12 - January 15

Spring Semester 2026: Daily January 15 - May 5. No tours on the following dates: 

• Spring Furlough March 13 - March 22

Summer Semester 2026 : TBD

You can also learn more about VMI's history and cadet life since 1839 by visiting the digital collections of the VMI Archives and find events happening on post in our calendar.

VMI Virtual Tour

Launched Spring 2025

Explore Virginia Military Institute like never before with our new interactive virtual tour. Whether you're a prospective cadet, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about No Ordinary College, this tour offers an in-depth look at the home of the Corps of Cadets and the three-legged stool that defines a cadetship.

Updates to the tour will be ongoing as VMI continues to expand and improve facilities. Additional highlights of academic spaces and a look into barracks, the Aquatic Center, and Cameron Hall are planned for launch 2025-2026.