Perhaps the most noticeable provision furnished by Auxiliary Services as they support the needs for everyday life of the Corps of Cadets is a signature hallmark of the Institute: the VMI uniform.

Wearing the uniform at Virginia Military Institute is not routine — it is resolve made visible. It signals commitment to shared values, clear standards, and a common mission

The military uniform dress at VMI connects every cadet to generations who stood the same ground, shouldered the same expectations, and led with the same purpose.

Standards for Wearing the Uniform

Standards protect meaning. Precision in wear, grooming, and bearing shows discipline, pride, and respect for those who came before — and sets the pace for those who will follow.

VMI Uniform FAQs

Can I purchase black leather shoes and combat boots from somewhere other than VMI before matriculation? 

Incoming rats (VMI's term for freshmen) will receive information regarding the purchase and fitting of boots in the spring/summer prior to matriculation via the New Cadet Handbook and the Matriculation website. 

Cadets are issued one pair of black leather shoes upon matriculation, or during the Summer Transition Program prior to matriculation. Cadets will be issued a second pair of black leather shoes later in the first semester when they are fitted for winter uniforms. 

Can cadets get extra uniform items? 

No. VMI issues cadets all the items they need. VMI has accounted for laundry cycles, typical wear and tear, and storage constraints in barracks rooms. If a cadet loses uniform items or changes weight and the uniform item no longer fits, we will refit and reissue uniform items on an as-needed basis. 

Can I buy uniform pieces or cadet issue items for personal use? 

No. VMI does not sell uniform items for individual use or gifts, however, the VMI Museum has a selection of uniform items for sale in the gift shop. 

What are boot socks? 

Boot socks are any over the calf length, thick cotton socks to wear with boots. They are usually thicker than athletic or dress socks and may be purchased at any retail store that sells socks and underwear or online. We recommend the cadets wear black boot socks. 

What if a uniform does not fit properly? 

VMI measures and fits cadets at matriculation with an experienced team. During the course of the Rat Line and their cadetship, cadets may change in size. Cadets are encouraged to schedule with the tailor shop to be re-fitted for uniforms if and when their uniforms do not fit properly. VMI also periodically inspects uniforms for fit during the year. 

Laundry Services

Laundry services at VMI are included in cadet annual fees — just another part of what makes VMI not an ordinary college. It is important that cadets follow protocols and procedures to ensure their uniforms are clean and looking their best at all times.

• A VMI ID is required to pick up laundry bags and uniforms. Coatee, blouse, overcoat and duty jackets must be delivered to the appropriate bin in the breezeway outside of Uniform Pick-Up room. Wool pants may also be placed in these bins. 

• Tie laundry bags properly. If they are not tied properly they may open in the laundry bins and your items may be separated from the bag. 

• OCP's and travel suits may be included in your laundry bag. Make sure all OCP's have a laundry number in them. ROTC OCP's should have a laundry number in the tag before throwing out. Remove all name tags, belts and patches from OCP's before throwing out. 

• Uniforms are behind and under laundry numbers in bins. 
• Lost and found laundry items are delivered to the laundry office. Contact a laundry supervisor with questions Monday through Friday 6:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. There is a "Lost and Found" area in the bag room on the 300 level.