The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) has achieved a rare and remarkable distinction: a 0% federal student loan default rate, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Education. Of the higher education institutions listed in the report, which includes undergraduate and graduate schools, VCOM is the only school with a 0% default rate across all federal student loan borrowers, defined as loans more than 90 days delinquent. This milestone underscores the College’s commitment to student success, financial responsibility, and mission-driven medical education.
The Department of Education’s analysis, shared in a July 2025 announcement, introduces “nonpayment rates” to highlight the share of borrowers who are behind on loan payments. VCOM stands alone with zero borrowers in default.
This achievement reflects not only VCOM’s rigorous academic preparation and career-readiness programming, but also its comprehensive approach to financial literacy. Through personalized counseling, budgeting workshops, and loan exit planning, the College equips students with the tools they need to manage educational debt and plan for their financial futures.
In addition, VCOM graduates consistently secure competitive residency placements, with match rates that significantly exceed national averages. From primary care in rural communities to specialized practice in major health systems, VCOM alumni are launching successful medical careers that support long-term financial stability.
Tuition and fees at VCOM are among the most affordable in osteopathic medical education, and the College’s four campuses—located in Virginia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Louisiana—offer a range of financial aid options designed to reduce the burden of medical school costs.
Ultimately, VCOM’s 0% default rate is more than a statistic—it is a reflection of the College’s enduring mission to prepare globally minded, community-focused osteopathic physicians who are not only clinically competent but also well-positioned to thrive professionally and serve where they are needed most.