University of Richmond logo

University of Richmond

Richmond, VA Private ยท Urban Est. 1830 www.richmond.edu
Accept Rate
23.31%
Grad Rate
87.9%
Enrollment
3,002
Avg SAT
1474
Tuition
$62,600
Median Salary
$76,178
Overall Grade
B-
A+
Academics
C
Value
A-
Admissions
B+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

The University of Richmond offers a close-knit, collaborative atmosphere set on a beautiful 350-acre campus featuring Collegiate Gothic architecture and a serene lake. Students often describe it as a 'bubble' of supportive community where professors know your name and classmates become lifelong friends. It feels like a liberal arts college with the resources of a larger university.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

23.31%
Very Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 147475th Pctl
14101530
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctl75th Pctl
3234
1122436

Admissions Tips

Emphasize your interest in the 'Richmond Promise' and how you will contribute to the close-knit community, as they value demonstrated interest and fit. Highlight leadership experiences and intellectual curiosity in your essays, as the admissions committee looks for students who will engage actively in campus life. Since the acceptance rate is competitive at 23%, ensure your academic stats are at or above the average SAT of 1474.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1474
40080012001600
School range: 1410โ€“1530

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

UR is renowned for its signature core curriculum and strong programs in business, leadership, and law, with a student-faculty ratio of 9:1 ensuring personalized attention. Research opportunities are abundant and accessible, with the University of Richmond's Robins School of Business and Jepson School of Leadership Studies being nationally ranked. Teaching quality is exceptionally high, emphasizing critical thinking and mentorship over large lecture halls.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
43.9%
Social Sciences
10.8%
Biology & Biomedical
8.2%
Multidisciplinary Studies
7.4%
Psychology
4.6%
English & Literature
3.9%
Health Professions
3.3%
Computer Science
3.2%
Physical Sciences
2.7%
Legal Studies
2.5%
Visual & Performing Arts
1.8%
Mathematics & Statistics
1.8%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

87.9%
Graduation Rate
93.2%
Retention Rate
3,002
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$62,600
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$33,417
After financial aid
Total Cost
$77,290
Cost of attendance/year
17.5%
Receive Pell Grants
33.4%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Richmond

Richmond offers a vibrant mix of history, arts, and outdoor activities, with the James River Park System providing trails and tubing right near campus. Students frequent the Carytown district for eclectic shopping and dining, and enjoy the city's thriving food scene and craft breweries. The city also hosts numerous music festivals and cultural events throughout the year.

Local Rent Check

$1,365 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Richmond
Explore Richmond

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$250,400
$0Est. 4 Years: $250,400

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($76,178):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus itself is very safe with 24/7 security and is located in a quiet, residential area of the city. While Richmond has typical city crime, the university area is generally considered secure and well-patrolled.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Exceptional student-faculty ratio of 9:1 for personalized learning
  • โœ“ Beautiful 350-acre campus with a lake and Collegiate Gothic architecture
  • โœ“ High retention rate of 93.2% indicating strong student satisfaction
  • โœ“ Strong alumni network and career outcomes in business and law

Cons

  • โœ— High tuition cost of $62,600 regardless of residency
  • โœ— Selective admissions with a 23.31% acceptance rate
  • โœ— Urban setting may feel isolating for those seeking a large college town atmosphere

Notable Alumni

John O. Wynne
Founder of Wynne, a major electronics retailer, and significant philanthropist.
Paul M. Rady
CEO and Chairman of Antero Resources, a major energy company.
Elizabeth D. (Betsy) Foster
Senior Vice President of Paramount Pictures and a leader in the entertainment industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

The University of Richmond is known for its signature core curriculum, the Jepson School of Leadership Studies, and the Robins School of Business. It is also recognized for its beautiful campus, high-quality teaching, and strong emphasis on undergraduate research and community engagement.

Yes, it is highly selective with an acceptance rate of 23.31%. The average SAT score is 1474, and successful applicants typically have strong academic records, leadership activities, and a demonstrated fit with the university's collaborative culture.

Campus life is characterized by a tight-knit community where students are highly engaged in academics, clubs, and Division I athletics. The residential campus fosters close friendships, and students enjoy a balance of rigorous study and social activities in a supportive environment.

For many students, yes. The 10-year median earnings of $76,178 and the 87.9% graduation rate indicate a solid return on investment. The personalized education and strong alumni network help justify the cost, especially for those pursuing high-earning fields like business.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Capital One Altria Wells Fargo McKinsey & Company Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond
Smart Start Score
88

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded 1830
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 3,603
  • In-State Tuition $62,600
  • Zip Code 23173

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 46% โ™€ 54%

The Money Talk

With a sticker price of $62,600, the net price averages $33,417 after aid, making it a significant investment. However, the 10-year median earnings of $76,178 and high graduation rate of 87.9% suggest a strong return on investment, particularly for graduates entering business and leadership fields. The value lies in the robust alumni network and the personalized education that often leads to successful career placement.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $62,600
Housing (12 mo) $16,380
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $86,180
With avg financial aid:
$33,417/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.