Study abroad at James Madison University

Named after the fourth president of the United States, James Madison University (JMU) is a public research university based in Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA. JMU is surrounded by the mountains of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, just two hours from the nation’s capital of Washington, D.C.

The University offers 77 undergraduate, 46 graduate, and 8 doctoral degrees, as well as pathway programs for international students. These programs prepare you for mainstream degree programs at JMU.

There are more than 350 clubs and organizations available on campus, including things like astronomy, film and skiing. The University Recreation Center (UREC) and University Park provide are a range of sporting and fitness facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, climbing wall, yoga studio, and indoor and outdoor sports courts.

• Top-ranked University

  JMU is one of the South's top three best regional universities (US News & World Report, 2021)

• Student staff ratio

  The University as a student-staff ratio of 16:1 which helps students get a personalized education

• Satisfaction

  96% of JMU students are satisfied with their education

• Value for money

  The University is one of the South's best value schools (US News & World Report, 2021)

• Exceptional teaching

  JMU has the fourth-best undergraduate teaching programs amongst Regional Universities in the South (US News & World Report, 2021)

James Madison University

800 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22807

Located just two hours from Washington, D.C., the city of Harrisonburg, Virginia blossoms in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. The Friendly City provides a variety of things to see and places to eat. And it doesn’t hurt to end each day with a stunning sunset grazing across the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Many international students will require a visa to study in the US, and this is a vital step of your study abroad journey. Make sure you understand the requirements you may need to meet before applying.

Support is on hand from your first day at JMU. If you join a pathway program, you’ll study at the International Study Center which gives you the best of both worlds. You’ll get the full JMU campus experience, plus the care of a supportive community that will help you adapt and thrive as an international student.

The International Study Center has 20 support facilities including the University Health Center, the Office of Academic and Career Planning, and Learning Centers. There are also a wealth of services, courses, and excursions available that are aimed at helping international students adapt and excel at JMU.

Many international students live on campus for their first year, and there are many options of residence halls and apartments. All rooms include wireless internet, cable TV, all utilities, access to study lounges and a variety of recreational areas. After the first year, you can choose from a selection of nearby off-campus housing.