PublicUrbanVirginia Commonwealth University
VCU
Richmond, Virginia 23284-2512
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — major research university
Virginia Commonwealth University is a public institution in Richmond with particular strength in business and psychology. With an average SAT of 1168, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A large campus of 20.8K undergraduates with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
65% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $58,128 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $19,452.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •In 1844, it moved into its first permanent home, the Egyptian Building.
- •In 1854, the Medical Department of Hampden–Sydney College received an independent charter from the Virginia General Assembly and became the Medical College of Virginia (MCV).
- •A few years later in 1860, MCV conveyed all its property to the Commonwealth of Virginia and becomes a state institution in exchange for $30,000.
- •Grant captured Petersburg and Richmond in early April 1865.
- •In 1912, McGuire Hall opened as the new home of the University College of Medicine.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1168
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
58.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
3.0%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$17,021
Programs (213)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
86%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
159
Peer Average
240
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
24/7 campus police department, blue-light phone network, emergency mass notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from VA state average + city premium