Chances of Getting Into Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia • Public University • #163 National • Founded 1838
VCU Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
VCU SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University is an urban research university in Richmond known for VCUarts (the #1 public art and design school in the nation) and a top-ranked medical school. VCU's location in Virginia's capital provides strong internship and career access.
Top Programs
What Makes VCU Unique
- VCUarts — #1 public university art and design school in the US
- VCU Medical Center — top-ranked in the state
- Urban campus in Richmond — Virginia's capital city
- Brandcenter — #1 graduate advertising program
- Strong social work and health sciences programs
VCU Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
VCU Application Deadlines
How to Get Into VCU: Admission Tips
VCU has high acceptance — most students are admitted
VCUarts is very competitive and requires a portfolio
Health sciences and nursing are selective programs within VCU
Richmond location is great for government and healthcare internships
Merit scholarships available for stronger students
The Brutal Truth About VCU Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 86% acceptance rate, VCU rejected over 2,800 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At VCU, having a 3.4 GPA and 1165 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. VCU doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if VCU genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 86%-acceptance-rate basket.
VCU Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Virginia Commonwealth University?
Virginia Commonwealth University has an acceptance rate of 86% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 20,000+ applicants, approximately 4,200 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into VCU?
The average GPA of admitted students at Virginia Commonwealth University is 3.4. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.25, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for VCU?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted VCU students is 1070-1260. The average SAT score is 1165. For ACT, the range is 22-28 with an average of 25.
Is VCU hard to get into?
Yes, Virginia Commonwealth University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 86%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does VCU cost?
Tuition at Virginia Commonwealth University is $14,758 per year, with total cost of attendance at $30,200. However, 60% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $10,000+.
What are my chances of getting into VCU?
Your chances of getting into Virginia Commonwealth University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 86% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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Popular Majors at VCU
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