Location
Virginia Military Institute
Lejeune Hall - 418 VMI Parade
Lexington, VA 24450
Contact Information
First Fall '26 Open House
Description
Get an inside look. VMI develops leaders - leaders for industry, leaders for government, leaders for the military, and leaders for communities.
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. Click here for a Sample Open House Itinerary.
Please note:
- 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 be sure all contact information submitted through the registration form is correct.
- Official VMI photographers and videographers will be recording this event. These images may be used by the Virginia Military Institute, at any time, for communications, marketing and outreach, both print and digital. Should you prefer that your image/audio not be used, please notify the photographer who will immediately delete the image(s).
- The "Available Spots" shown on this event page represents the total number of spots for prospective students. Parents/guardians do not need to register themselves.
Upcoming Dates And Times
- Sep 18, 2026Sep 18, 8:00 AM - Sep 19, 11:00 AM (Sep 18, 12:00 PM - Sep 19, 3:00 PM UTC)Available spots: 189
Questions & Answers
- What do I bring for the overnight in Barracks?
Sleeping bag, pillow, change of clothes, and toiletries. Your basic necessity items for an overnight stay. Pack light! There is no physical activity planned for the students attending.
- Will parents attend the Open House with their student?
Yes. The VMI Open House is designed for both students and their parent(s)/guardian(s). On Friday, families stay together for most sessions, separating only for the ROTC presentation. Following the parade on Friday afternoon, parents and students attend activities independently. Parents return on Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m. in Marshall Hall to reunite with their student and remain together for the rest of the program.
- Where do parents/guests stay in Lexington?
Parents/guardians and guests will need to find their own accommodations for the night. There are several options. Lodging and other local restaurants and activities can be found at lexingtonvirginia.com.
- Can I request to room with a current VMI cadet I know?
Yes. Send your request to room with a specific cadet during your Open House stay via email to openhouse@vmi.edu. We will make every effort to pair you with the requested host.
- May I attend Open House as a high school sophomore?
We love your enthusiasm, but the VMI Open House programs are created for high school juniors, seniors, and college transfer students. We look forward to welcoming you next year!
- Can I attend without a parent/guardian?
Yes. While the event is designed with parent/guardian participation in mind, students are welcome to attend on their own. For safety, an emergency contact and their information must be provided at registration.
- Where can I find answers to additional questions?
Review the Open House FAQs page at VMI.edu and if you still need more info, please contact us at openhouse@vmi.edu. We look forward to seeing you on post!
