Academic Common Market

The Academic Common Market (ACM) is a tuition-savings initiative administered by the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) and its 15 member states. This program allows eligible students to pursue select programs at out-of-state public colleges and universities and pay in-state tuition rates, if those programs are not available in the students’ home state. In other words, the ACM helps you save money on college if you’re from one state but want to study something special that’s only offered in another state. Instead of paying more because you’re from out of state, you pay the same rate as students from that state.

Important Notices

Because of the volume of ACM applications, the processing time is typically 4 to 6 weeks. The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) processes applications in the order in which they are received. If your application is incomplete or requires further documentation, processing may take longer. West Virginia University (WVU) no longer accepts undergraduate ACM certifications. For inquiries regarding WVU's ACM participation at the undergraduate level, please contact WVU directly. Applications for approved WVU graduate programs will continue to be processed.

About the Academic Common Market

Participating States:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Mississippi
• Oklahoma
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia
• West Virginia

States, colleges and universities can opt to change their participation status or limit access to specific programs.

Application Process: There are many undergraduate and graduate programs available for Virginia students. Virginia residents interested in the ACM should consult the How to Apply section of SCHEV’s website.

Further Information: The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) offers additional details on the ACM, including an updated list of programs available to Virginia residents. Be aware that participating states and institutions can add or remove programs without prior notification.

Disclaimer: The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) has the authority to change the ACM participation of Virginia colleges and universities and to determine what programs are available to Virginians. Prospective students are advised to contact SCHEV for the most recent program status and to avoid interruptions in their education.

Virginia residents have access to numerous undergraduate and graduate programs through the ACM.

Ready to apply for the ACM? Click the button below to learn more about the application process.

How to apply for ACM