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

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

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Getting in is the hard part. Virginia Commonwealth University admitted 92.6% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 10101270 on the SAT and 2230 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Virginia Commonwealth University actually rewards, and 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

Requirements and deadlines

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

    The essays

    Supplemental essay prompts

    The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will 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 you will actually pay

    The sticker price is about $38,954, but that is not 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.

    Campus life

    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

    Virginia Commonwealth University FAQ

    How hard is it to get into Virginia Commonwealth University?
    Very hard. Virginia Commonwealth University admits 92.6% of applicants, and 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, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $23,433.
    Is Virginia Commonwealth University worth it?
    Graduates earn a median of $58,128 ten years after enrolling, and 64% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly 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. Join the waitlist to get in early.