Virginia Commonwealth University campus
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Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond, VA · Public · 20,753 students

More than 5,800 students live on campus, with 21 dining venues across campus.

Acceptance rate

92.6%

SAT (mid 50%)

1010–1270

Avg net price

$23,433

after aid

Testing

Optional

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Virginia Commonwealth University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Virginia Commonwealth University admitted 92.6% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1010–1270 on the SAT and 22–30 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Virginia Commonwealth University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Uncommon Academics, Research Driven

At VCU, undergraduates don't just study discovery, they drive it.

VCU offers a wide array of over 200 degrees and certificates, encompassing undergraduate, master's, doctoral, and first-professional programs.

  • Degrees & Certificates200+ options, undergraduate to professional
  • Research & Creative InquiryMentored investigation, artistic contribution

Verified from vcu.edu and admissions.vcu.edu and admissions.vcu.edu and admissions.vcu.edu and vcu.edu and vcu.edu and academics.provost.vcu.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional

Verified from https://www.vcu.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • How will membership in the VCU Honors College assist you in pursuing your academic and career goals while also helping you become an active citizen in the community?

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.vcu.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $38,954. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $23,433.

VCU aims to make education affordable for all qualified applicants through scholarships, grants, Federal Work-Study, and other financial aid options that do not need to be repaid.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $58,128.

Verified from https://www.vcu.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Psychology, General10% of degrees
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas7% of degrees
  • Biology, General7% of degrees
  • Design and Applied Arts7% of degrees
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections5% of degrees
  • Business/Commerce, General4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Grab a local kale salad from Market 810, then head to a research lab to drive discovery, before exploring Richmond's hidden culinary gems.”

The aroma of fresh coffee from Starbucks or a meal from Panda Express fills the air, while students gather in cozy lounges or play roundnet outside residence halls.

UrbanFoodieResearch-focused

Quick answers

What do people ask about Virginia Commonwealth University?

Is Virginia Commonwealth University test-optional?
For the current cycle, standardized testing at Virginia Commonwealth University is optional.
How hard is it to get into Virginia Commonwealth University?
Very hard. Virginia Commonwealth University admits 92.6% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1010 to 1270 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does Virginia Commonwealth University cost?
The list price is about $38,954. After aid, families pay $23,433 on average.
Is Virginia Commonwealth University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $58,128 ten years after enrolling. 64% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about Virginia Commonwealth University.

Spike answers from Virginia Commonwealth University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.