Virginia Commonwealth University
The Vibe Check
VCU pulses with an intense, creative energy rooted in its world-class arts programs and urban setting. It feels like a dynamic hub where students are constantly engaged in hands-on projects, street art, and a vibrant, eclectic city culture. The campus is a bustling ecosystem that encourages bold self-expression and real-world problem-solving.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠ ️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
VCU is a national powerhouse in the arts, with its School of the Arts consistently ranked among the best in the nation. The university also excels in health sciences, business, and engineering, offering robust research opportunities through its academic health center and downtown Richmond partnerships. Teaching is highly practical and project-based, emphasizing collaboration and portfolio development over traditional lectures.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Richmond
Richmond offers a vibrant, affordable urban experience with a thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and diverse food options. Students enjoy kayaking on the James River, exploring historic neighborhoods like Jackson Ward and the Fan District, and attending concerts and festivals year-round.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($58,128):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
VCU has a dedicated, visible police force and extensive security infrastructure, including well-lit paths and emergency blue-light systems throughout its urban campus. While its location in downtown Richmond requires standard city awareness, the university maintains a strong community safety network.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ World-renowned School of the Arts offering unmatched creative resources
- ✓ Prime urban location provides endless internship and networking opportunities
- ✓ High retention rate (85.6%) indicates strong student satisfaction and support
- ✓ Diverse range of top-tier programs, from visual arts to health sciences
Cons
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is high compared to national averages
- ✗ Urban campus can feel overwhelming for students seeking a traditional college town feel
- ✗ Graduation rate (64.9%) is below the national average for public universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
VCU is globally recognized for its School of the Arts (VCUarts), which is consistently ranked as one of the top public art and design programs in the nation. Beyond the arts, it is a leader in health professions, biomedical research, and business, anchored by its extensive academic medical center and strong ties to the Richmond community.
VCU has a high acceptance rate of 93.06%, making it broadly accessible. However, admission to competitive programs like the School of the Arts or specific majors within the College of Engineering requires a stronger application, including portfolios, auditions, or higher academic metrics. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1168.
Campus life is deeply integrated with the city of Richmond, offering an energetic, non-traditional college experience. Students are immersed in a creative and diverse environment with hundreds of student organizations, Division I athletics, and easy access to urban amenities like museums, cafes, and parks right outside their door.
For in-state students, VCU is a compelling value, with an average net price of $19,452 and strong post-graduation earnings of $58,128 (10-year median). For out-of-state students, the higher cost requires careful consideration of the major and career path, but the university's reputation in fields like arts and health can justify the investment for those pursuing those careers.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 22,683
- In-State Tuition $16,458
- Out-of-State $39,042
- Zip Code 23284
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, VCU provides a strong return on investment with a relatively low net price and solid post-graduation earnings. Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher, but the 10-year median earnings of $58,128 suggest the degree can be a worthwhile investment, especially in high-demand fields like health professions and business. The 29.7% Pell Grant rate indicates a commitment to accessibility for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.