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What to Bring
Paperwork
Cadets will need an ID (driver's license, passport, etc.) and insurance information. For those on ROTC scholarship, be sure to check with your unit for any additional paperwork requirements.
Packing and Clothing
ⓘ The 2024-25 VMI New Cadet Handbook is now available for viewing and download. Information from the Parents Council is also available: Cadet Handbook Parents Insert
The contents of the handbook, including events, visitation, and furloughs, are subject to change and/or cancellation due to evolving circumstances. A note will be added to this page if and when any adjustments are made.
Clothing recommendations are based on having to change clothes two or three times a day during the August heat.
New cadets will be issued athletic uniforms at matriculation. If you are in Lexington on Friday, August 16 we would like to encourage incoming cadets to pick up their initial athletic uniform from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. in Cameron Hall, any cadets who are unable to report on Friday may pick-up your athletic uniform on Saturday, August 17 during the Matriculation process in Cameron Hall.
Boot Requirements: For 2024, incoming matriculants will need to purchase one of four authorized boots prior to Matriculation. Authorized boots, as well as sizing/fit information, can be found in Boot Guidance for Incoming Cadets.
Cadet Computing Requirements
The Department of Information Technology (IT) has recently updated cadet computer recommendations and requirements. Please review these expectations and pay close attention to the separate minimum system requirements for engineering majors.
Hair
Starting the VMI journey is a momentous occasion, and adhering to hair standards from the outset is crucial. Here are the key guidelines for your hair upon arrival.
All Matriculants
- Do not cut your hair to VMI standards prior to matriculation. The barbershop will take care of your first regulation haircut.
- You may donate your hair if it is at least 8 inches long to Locks of Love or other similar charities. Inform the barber if you want to donate your hair.
- VMI does not allow any unnatural hair colors. This is true throughout your cadetship.
- Refer to the Blue Book, which you will receive when you matriculate, for these and other regulations during your time at VMI.
Male Matriculants
- Any cornrows or dreads must be picked out prior to arrival to ensure that your first cut can be completed according to VMI standards. There will be no time to do this on Matriculation Day itself.
- Rats are required to get a haircut every other week during the Rat Line.
- While shaved heads are allowed, this should not be done prior to your arrival.
Female Matriculants
- Keep your hair properly maintained and low maintenance, especially during the fast-paced Rat Line.
- Learn how to quickly style your hair to look presentable, such as slicking it back neatly.
- For specific hair care tips, consult your dyke, or mentor, or brother rats with similar hairstyles to learn their routines.
- Visit the VMI Barbershop for services like deep washing or trimming long hair.
Prohibited items that will be confiscated:
- Weapons of any type
- Knives of any type
- Electrical equipment and appliances (including microwave ovens, hot pots, heating elements, etc.)
- Plants and pets
- Flammable materials including candles, fireworks, incense, etc.
- TVs, or any other type of entertainment media
- Alcohol, illegal drugs or associated paraphernalia
Prohibited until after Breakout:
- Cell phones
- Electric razors
- Radios (to include alarm clock radios)
- DVDs, CDs, computer games
- iPods or similar devices and MP3 players
- Computer speakers
- Transition lenses in eyeglasses
- Clothing with emblems/logos, to include socks, underwear, T-shirts, linens, and towels