- RIGOROUS ACADEMICS: VCU is home to 200+ academic programs, and is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States. The university's strengths include the arts, sciences, and health sciences.
- DIVERSITY: VCU is a diverse and inclusive campus, with students from all over the world. Its success in creating a welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their background is what makes it stand out.
- RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES: VCU is a major research university, and students have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects. The university's research strengths include neuroscience, cancer, substance abuse and addiction, the human microbiome, nanoscience, nanomedicine, and nanotechnology.
- ARTS AND CULTURE: VCU is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, housing a world-renowned art museum, a performing arts centre, and many cultural institutions. Students have the opportunity to participate in varied arts and cultural activities, both on and off campus.
- PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: VCU offers several opportunities for professional development, including internships, externships, and fellowships, helping students gain valuable experience and make connections in their field.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Top 450
Virginia, United States
About
Courses
Cost
Admissions
Rankings
Students
Counselling
Discussions
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About
Public
University Type
761-770
QS Global Rank
$55,280
Average Living Expenses
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public research university located in Richmond, Virginia. Founded in 1838, VCU is the 13th largest public university in the United States, offering 250 programs through its 12 colleges and schools. The university has a total enrollment of 28,000+ students, with an acceptance rate of 93%, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1.
VCU is a diverse university, with 999 international students representing 140 countries. The university's student body is 40% minority, and VCU is ranked among the top 100 minority-serving institutions in the nation. The average tuition fee for international undergraduates is approximately $38,817 and $13,374 per credit, for international graduates.
The VCUarts schools offer several programs in the visual and performing arts, including architecture, design, dance, film and video, music, theatre, and visual arts. In 2023, U.S. News & World Report ranked Virginia Commonwealth University #50 among public universities and #126 overall. VCU is also ranked among the top 30 most innovative universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Top Reasons to Study in the Virginia Commonwealth University
Courses
MS in Computer Science
College of Engineering
Will you get in? 
Application deadline
Fall, 01/06/2024
Degree
Masters
Duration
18 Months
Tuition fee
$35,100/yr
MS in Information Systems
School of Business
Will you get in?
Application deadline
Rolling
Degree
Masters
Duration
18 Months
Tuition fee
$15,744/yr
MS in Computer And Information Systems
College of Engineering
Will you get in?
Application deadline
Rolling
Degree
Masters
Duration
18 Months
Tuition fee
$29,720/yr
Cost of Studying at Virginia Commonwealth University
Average tuition fee
Reasonable
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5000+ Students
Availed education loan
3000+ Cr
Loan amount sanctioned
100% Free
Assistance for loan process
Living expenses
Average living expenses (Bachelors)
$62,396
Average living expenses (Masters)
$55,280
Average on-campus living expenses
$12,870
Average off-campus living expenses
$23,398
Admissions at The Virginia Commonwealth University
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
92%
Application Fee
$70
How to Apply at Virginia Commonwealth University
UNDERGRADUATE
Here are the steps on how to apply to Virginia Commonwealth University for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:
- Visit the VCU Admissions website and click on the "Apply" tab.
- Select "Undergraduate" and "International" to view the application requirements for international undergraduate applicants.
- Create an account and complete the online application form.
- Submit your official transcripts from your secondary school or equivalent institution, translated into English.
- Submit your TOEFL or IELTS scores.
- Write an essay about yourself and your reasons for wanting to attend VCU.
- Submit two letters of recommendation from teachers or other academic references.
- Submit proof of financial support: This can be done by submitting a bank statement or letter of financial support from a sponsor.
- Pay the application fee of $70.
POSTGRADUATE
Here are the steps on how to apply to Virginia Commonwealth University for postgraduate studies as an international applicant:
- Visit the VCU International Graduate Admissions website and select the program you are interested in.
- Review the program's admission requirements, which can be found on the program's website.
- Create an account in the VCU Graduate Admissions Portal.
Submit your application, which includes the following:
- Application form.
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions, translated into English.
- Statement of purpose.
- Letters of recommendation.
- English language proficiency scores.
- Financial certification.
- Copy of passport.
- Pay the application fee of $70.
- Submit your application by the deadline.
MASTER'S AND PhD
Here are the steps on how to apply to Virginia Commonwealth University for a master's or PhD as an international applicant:
- Check the Graduate Bulletin: For the deadlines and requirements of the specific program you are interested in.
- Complete the online application: The application is available on the VCU Admissions website. Provide your personal information, academic transcripts translated into English, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.
- Submit your application fee: The application fee for international applicants is $70.
- Provide proof of English proficiency: This can be done by submitting your TOEFL or IELTS scores.
- Submit proof of financial support: This can be done by submitting a bank statement or letter of financial support from a sponsor.
- Submit a copy of your passport.
- Wait for a decision.
Documents Required to Apply to Virginia Commonwealth University
UNDERGRADUATE
Here are the documents you need to apply to Virginia Commonwealth University for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:
- Common Application.
- Official transcripts.
- English proficiency test scores.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement.
- Financial documentation.
POSTGRADUATE
Here are the documents you need to apply to Virginia Commonwealth University for postgraduate studies as an international applicant:
- Common Application.
- Official transcripts.
- English proficiency test scores.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement.
- Financial documentation.
- Resume or CV.
MASTER'S AND PhD
Here are the documents you need to apply to Virginia Commonwealth University for a master's and PhD as an international applicant:
- Common Application.
- Official transcripts.
- English proficiency test scores.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement.
- Financial documentation.
- Resume or CV.
Exams Accepted By Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) accepts the minimum scores in the following English language proficiency exams for international applicants:
- TOEFL: 80 (undergraduate) and 90 (graduate.)
- IELTS: 6.5 (undergraduate) and 7.0 (graduate.)
- PTE: 65 (undergraduate) and 70 (graduate.)
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Rankings for The Virginia Commonwealth University
#142
US World and News Report
#401-500
The World University Rankings
#761-770
QS World University Rankings
More rankings for this university
Here are some of Virginia Commonwealth University's global rankings in major ranking systems:
- QS World University Rankings: 761-770 (2023)
- Times Higher Education World University Rankings: 801-1000 (2023)
- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking): 601-800 (2022)
- CWUR (Center for World University Rankings): 206 (2022)
Students Virginia Commonwealth University
Premium Yocketer profiles
Deepak Karunakaran
ShortlistedPharmaceutical Sciences
Fall 2023
Chittapragada Chandrasekhar
ShortlistedInformation Systems
Spring 2024
Haveela Vinukonda
ShortlistedForensic Science
Fall 2022
Shweta Gaikwad
ShortlistedInformation Systems
Fall 2024
International Students
% of international students in the university
10.2
Total International Students in the university
999
Alumni at Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) has a distinguished alumni body of 200,000, that includes many notable figures in many fields. Some of the most well-known VCU alumni include:
- Erin Brockovich, environmental activist and legal clerk.
- Stefan Lessard, bassist for Dave Matthews Band.
- Mia Hamm, Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women's World Cup champion.
- Sally Yates, former acting attorney general of the United States.
- David Baldacci, best-selling author and speaker.
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Campus life
Transportation in the city
The main modes of transportation in Richmond, Virginia are:
- Public transportation is the most affordable way to get around Richmond. The Greater Richmond Transit Authority (GRTC) operates a bus system that covers most of the city and surrounding areas. There is also a bus rapid transit line called the GRTC Pulse that runs along Broad and Main Streets, offering paratransit services for people with disabilities.
- Taxis and ride-hailing services are available in Richmond, but they can be more expensive than public transportation. Taxis can be hailed on the street or by calling a cab company. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft can be requested through a mobile app.
- Bicycles are a great way to get around Richmond, especially in the warmer months. There are bike lanes throughout the city, and the GRTC Pulse has bike racks on board. You can also rent bicycles from several shops in the city.
Services offered by the university
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
- Academic support: VCU offers several academic support services, such as tutoring, writing centres, and math labs, available to all students, regardless of their academic level.
- Financial aid: VCU offers financial aid options to help students pay for their education, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.
- Health services: VCU offers a variety of health services to students, faculty, and staff. These services include a student health centre, a dental clinic, and a pharmacy.
- Housing and dining: VCU offers some housing options for students, including on-campus residence halls and off-campus apartments. It also offers dining options, including a campus dining hall, varied retail food outlets, and a food pantry, providing food for those in need.
- Recreation and Wellness: VCU offers many recreation and wellness programs and facilities for students, including intramural sports, fitness classes, and a recreation centre.
Student life at Virginia Commonwealth University
- Student Organizations: Whether you are interested in arts and culture, athletics, Greek life, social justice or something else entirely, with VCU offering 500+ student clubs, you are sure to find one that interests you.
- Athletics: VCU's athletic teams compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic 10 Conference. The Rams are known for their passionate fans and their exciting brand of basketball. There are always exciting sporting events to attend, so participate or cheer, your call.
- Explore Richmond: Richmond is a great city with several great museums, theatres, and restaurants for students to explore. The city is also home to many professional sports teams, so students can always catch a game.
- Student Media: VCU has eight student-run media outlets, from their award-winning student newspaper and radio stations, there are several ways for students to make their voices heard.
On campus accomodation at Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers several on-campus housing options for undergraduate and graduate students, including:
- Traditional residence halls: These halls offer many room types, including singles, doubles, triples, and quads. They also have common areas, such as lounges, study rooms, and laundry facilities.
- Apartments: VCU offers apartments for upperclassmen and graduate students. These apartments have fully equipped kitchens, private bathrooms, and living areas.
- Themed housing: VCU also offers themed housing options, such as the Honors College, the Residential College, and the Global Village. These housing options provide students with the opportunity to live with other students who share their interests.
- Specialized housing: VCU also offers specialized housing options for students with disabilities and international students. students with families, and students who are involved in Greek life.
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