Virginia Commonwealth University
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Virginia Commonwealth University : Fees, Rankings, Courses, Reviews

Shiksha popularity ranking
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#424 in World

#99 in USA

Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 20 Jan '26

VCU
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Virginia Commonwealth University application deadline for international students is closed, for Fall 2026

About Virginia Commonwealth University

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Year of establishment
1838
Also known as
VCU
University website
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Student website
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Total foreign students
1260
Campus size
173 acres
No. of campus
2
Endowment value
USD 1 billion
Scholarships granted
15675
Scholarship amount granted
USD 184 million
Application fees
USD 70
English proficiency test
Required
Accepted exams
SAT/ACT accepted
Optional
Total faculty
2469
Faculty/Student ratio
16
Male/Female ratio
1.49
Total criminal offences
224
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Commonly asked questions
On Highlights
Q:   Is it hard to get into Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

Virginia Commonwealth University is a slightly competitive university to get into, as its acceptance rate stands at 91%. This figure tells us that almost 91 out of every 100 applicants manage to get enrolled in VCU Richmond, which is more than half of all the applicants. Therefore, once an applicant fulfills Virginia Commonwealth University admission requirements i.e.; competitive grades, standardized test scores, English language requirements as well as relevant documents, they are most likely to secure an admission in the university. However, students must not take this lightly and apply to the VCU University Richmond within the deadlines in order to get enrolled as a student.

Q:   What are some useful tips for students starting their first semester in the Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

Virginia Commonwealth hUniversity is one of the best universities in USA and students across the world desire to study here. Given below are some helpful tips for students starting their first semester in VCU University Richmond:

  • Academic Routine: Build a practical routine for studies and make use of the academic resources offered by VCU University Richmond.
  • Connect with Faculty: Students must build a healthy relationship with professors and is helpful with studies as well as job opportunities.
  • Co-curricular Activities: Participate in events, clubs, trips, community organization, volunteering and more.
  • Gym & Fitness: Fitness freaks can make use of the equipment at VCU University Richmond in order to build a healthy routine for themselves.
  • Planning Finances: Since studying abroad is expensive, students must plan their budget and invest/spend their money mindfully while studying in VCU University Richmond.
Q:   How to get into Virginia Commonwealth University from India?
A: 

In order to secure an admission, all the international students must fulfill the Virgina Commonwealth University admission requirements listed below:

1) Undergraduate Requirements:

  • Official high school transcripts  (English translation);
  • Proof of English language proficiency; and
  • SAT/ACT scores.

2) Graduate Requirements:

  • Official college/university transcripts (English translation);
  • Letters of recommendation  (LOR);
  • Statement of purpose (SOP);
  • Proof of English language proficiency;
  • Resume/CV;
  • GMAT/GRE score; and
  • Other course-specific requirements.
Q:   How is the Virginia Commonwealth University campus life?
A: 

VCU is home away from home for international students. Attending VCU Richmond University has its own perks when it comes to campus life. While studying in the university, students get to enjoy the perfect blend of urban living with the close community feel of a small town. Mentioned below are the facilities which make Virginia Commonwealth University an ideal study abroad option:

FacilitiesDetails

Accommodation & Dining

- Provides a vast variety of residencies to choose from

- All the residencies are equipped with various facilities and amenities

- 22 on-campus on dining locations

Clubs & Organizations

- More than 400 student organizations

Health & Wellness- Offers fitness facilities and mental health services
Sports & Athletics- Intramural sports, various games for both men and women to participate in

Virginia Commonwealth University Ranking 2025

#424

World level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
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#99

Country level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
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Commonly asked questions
On Rankings
Q:   What are the rankings of Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

According to the US News Global Rankings 2023, Virginia Commonwealth University has a ranking of #439 and in 2022, it had a ranking of #417. Comparatively, West Virginia University has a ranking of #537 according to the US News Global Rankings 2023. 

To check more rankings, click here

Q:   How is the Virginia Commonwealth University ranked?
A: 

According to the Shiksha grading, the overall ranking of Virginia Commonwealth University is B+. A few majors, namely Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering have obtained the C+ subject rankings. Mechanical Engineering has secured the grade C+. Whereas, Business Economics, Computer Science, and Physics rank in the C category.

Given below are the ranks attained by VCU University Richmond:

Particulars

Shiksha Ranking 2024

Overall University Ranking

B+

Biomedical Engineering

C+

Chemical Engineering

C+

Electrical Engineering

C+

Mechanical Engineering

C+

Business Economics

C

Computer Science

C

Physics

C

Virginia Commonwealth University Admission 2026

  • Application fees :USD 70
  • Type of deadline :Regular
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNot required
LORNeeded for few courses
EssaysNot required
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   How long does it take to get an offer letter from Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

Virginia Commonwealth University accepts international applications either through the Common Application or the Official Application Portal for UG courses and Graduate Application portal for PG courses. Once a candidate has applied to the university and submitted all the required documents, it takes the university about 8 - 10 weeks to evaluate applications and send out the admission offers. Students must note that they need to fulfill all the Virginia Commonwealth Univ entry requirements in order to get admitted in the university.

Q:   What is the acceptance rate of the Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

As per the ratio of admissions to applications, the Virginia Commonwealth University acceptance rate stands at 91%. Since, the stats are on the higher end, we can conclude that VCU University Richmond is a not a very competitive university to get in, as it admits more than half of the applicants. Once an applicant fulfills the Virginia Commonwealth University admission requirements, i.e.; competitive grades, standardized test scores, English language requirements, as well as relevant documents, they are most likely to secure admission in the university. However, students must not take this lightly and apply to the university within the deadlines to get enrolled as student.

Note: The data has been derived from the unofficial sources and is subjected to changes.

Q:   Can an average Indian student join Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

Yes, an average Indian student can join Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). VCU has a student organisation called the Indian Student Association that promotes and spreads Indian cultural practices throughout the university and the surrounding community through events of social and charitable value. VCU also joined an education trade mission to India in 2022, hoping to increase the number of Indian students in both the graduate and undergraduate population, and is home to more than 1,200 international students from 101 countries.

Q:   Is there an application fee for Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

Yes, VCU application fee of USD 70 -INR 5.8 K for admissions. VCU University Richmond application fee is non refundable and applicants do not receive any refund even if they withdraw the application. Students must submit the application fee online using a credit card, as the applications may not be processed if submitted without a fee.

Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.46

VCU
Virginia Commonwealth University Scholarships 2024

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Commonly asked questions
On Scholarships
Q:   Does the Virginia Commonwealth University offer scholarships for international students?
A: 

With the help of external agencies, Virginia Commonwealth University offers various scholarships and International Student Awards for their overseas applicants. These awards are offered both on the undergraduate as well as graduate level. Given below are the details of the Virginia Commonwealth University scholarships for international students:

Scholarship Name

Details

AAUW International Women

Disbursement Amount:

Master’s/first professional degree: USD 20,000

Doctoral: USD 25,000

Postdoctoral: USD 50,000

Mellon/ACLS Dissertation Innovation Fellowship

Rewards:

USD 40,000 stipend for the fellowship year

Up to USD 8,000 for project-related research, training, development, and travel costs

USD 2,000 stipend for external mentorship

PEO International Peace Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:
An applicant must have a full year of coursework remaining, be enrolled and in residence for the entire school year

Quad Fellowship

Sponsors 100 exceptional American, Japanese, Australian, and Indian Master’s and Doctoral students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to study in the United States

Schwarzman Scholarship

Rewards:

Coverage of tuition fees

Room and board at a state-of-the-art facility

Travel to and from Beijing

An in-country study tour

Required course books and supplies

Lenovo laptop and smartphone

Health insurance

A personal stipend of USD 3500

Q:   What scores do I need to have to get a scholarship at Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

To be considered for a university-level scholarship as a first-year student at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), the following criteria are used:
Minimum GPA: Students with at least a 3.0 high school GPA qualify for a four-year scholarship of a minimum of $10,000. Those with a minimum 3.3 high school GPA qualify for at least a $12,000 scholarship.
National Merit Scholarship Program: Finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program who apply to VCU by November 1 and notify the National Merit Scholarship Corp. by May 31 that VCU is their first choice are eligible for a VCU Presidential Scholarship.

VCU Popular Courses

MS
MBA/PGDM
B.E. / B.Tech
M.Arch
More

₹15.7 LGet Fee Details

₹15.7 LGet Fee Details

₹29.28 LGet Fee Details

₹23.42 LGet Fee Details

₹25.53 LGet Fee Details

View AllMS Courses

VCU
Students Ratings & Reviews

4/5
Verified Icon2 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 50% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Academically oriented
Fun loving
Liberal
Internships3.5
Part time work4
Post study jobs4
Quality of faculty4
Student Life4
Value for money4.5
Public transportation4
Safety4.5
Indian Food3.5
Permanent Immigration4
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2026
3.8
It is a very friendly and encouraging environment.
Tips: I have gained a lot of exposure and expertise in my field as well. The environment and people are very helpful and considerate so you don't have much to worry about. Take your time and don't feel the pressure to commit to things you initially thought you'd want long term.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3450
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Master of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2026
4.2
Unique, valuable with lots of college activities and events.
Tips: If you are not from an international board then you will need to understand certain significant aspects of academics such as how to write academic reports, avoid plagiarism, and how citations work. These would take a minute to grasp. Other than that, dedicate your first year to campus clubs and activities and explore different events.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 7450
Prepping time for classes33 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2024Read more
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Virginia Commonwealth University Placements

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Commonly asked questions
On Placements
Q:   How much do graduates of Virginia Commonwealth University earn?
A: 

At Virginia Commonwealth University USA, the average annual salary for undergraduates is around USD 55,689 (INR 46.4 L). Whereas, for graduates, it is USD 88,388 (INR 73.7 L). Given below are some details of the Virginia Commonwealth University placements:

ParticularsDetails
Average Salary

Bachelor's Degree Graduates: USD 55,689 (INR 46.4 L)

Master's Degree Graduates: USD 88,388 (INR 73.7 L)

Top Recruiting CompaniesVCU Health, Capital One, Dominian Energy, HCA Healthcare, Sentara, etc.
Top IndustriesHealthcare Services, Business Development, Education, Operations, Arts & Design, etc.

Conversion Used: 1 USD = INR 83.46

Virginia Commonwealth University Fees

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Courses1st Year Tuition FeesDuration & Eligibility
MS(42 courses)
INR 6 L - 35 LGet Fee Details
Duration12 months-3 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, PTE: 65 & Above, Duolingo: 110 - 120, TOEFL: 80 - 100, GRE: 300 & Above, GMAT
MBA/PGDM(8 courses)
INR 16 L - 29 LGet Fee Details
Duration12 months-3 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 - 7, PTE: 65 - 68, Duolingo: 120 & Above, TOEFL: 100 & Above, GMAT, GRE
B.E. / B.Tech(10 courses)
INR 32 L - 36 LGet Fee Details
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 - 6.5, PTE, Duolingo, TOEFL: 80 & Above
M.Arch(1 course)
Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE, Duolingo
MDS(1 course)
Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedTOEFL: 100 & Above, PTE, Duolingo
B.Sc.(14 courses)
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, PTE, Duolingo
BFA(1 course)
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6 & Above, PTE, Duolingo
M.A.(7 courses)
INR 29 L - 31 LGet Fee Details
Duration18 months-2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE, Duolingo
MFA(4 courses)
INR 24 L - 29 LGet Fee Details
Duration18 months-3 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE: 65 & Above, Duolingo: 110 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above
MPH(1 course)
Duration18-24 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 7 & Above, PTE, Duolingo
Read more
View Course Wise Fees ->
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Commonly asked questions
On Fees and Eligibility
Q:   What is the cost of living in the Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

Virginia Commonhealth University cost of living for international students in inclusive of housing, meals, books, travel, personal expenses, and more. For Indian students, the total amount sums upto be around INR 18.7 L.

Particulars

Cost of Living

Cost in INR

Housing

USD 9,333 

INR 7.7 L

Food

USD 6,786

INR 5.6 L

Books and supplies

USD 1,240

INR 1 L

Personal and miscellaneous

USD 3,730

INR 3.1 L

Transportation

USD 1,420

INR 1.1 L

Loan fees

USD 70

INR 5.8 K

TOTAL

USD 22,579

INR 18.7 L

Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.14

Q:   Is a score of 85 in TOEFL good for Virginia Commonwealth University?
A: 

The university minimum TOEFL score requirement for graduate programs is 80 on the Internet-based test, with some programs possibly requiring a higher score. For undergraduate programs, the minimum TOEFL score requirement is 70 on the Internet-based test, except for the College of Engineering, which requires a score of 80 or higher. VCU accepts a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 as evidence of English proficiency for graduate programs and a minimum PTE score of 65 for graduate programs.

Q:   How much does Virginia Commonwealth University cost for Indian students?
A: 

Studying in the Virginia Commonwealth University can be considered expensive for Indian students as the cost sums up to be around INR 20 L on an average. Students can refer to the table for course-specific fees requirements:

Courses1st Year Tuition Fees
MS (8 courses)
INR 15 L - 24 L
MBA/PGDM (2 courses)
INR 15 L - 22 L
MIM (1 course)
INR 15 L
Q:   Does Virginia Commonwealth University require IELTS?
A: 

Yes, meeting the English language requirements is one of the major Virginia Commonwealth University eligibility criteria for international students. Students can refer to the table below for minimum score requirements:

English Proficiency Exam

UG Minimum Score Requirements

PG Minimum Score Requirements

IELTS iBT

Overall score of 70 or higher

Overall score of 80 or higher

IELTS Academic

Overall score of 6.0 or higher

Overall score of 6.5 or higher

PTE Academic

Overall score of 53 or higher

Overall score of 65 or higher

Duolingo English Test

Overall score of 105 or higher

Overall score of 110 or higher

SAT (Reading Test)

22 or higher

-

ACT (English Section)

16 or higher

-

Note: For Engineering programs, the ELP requirements for undergraduates vary. Hence, students are advised to go through the official website for the course-specific requirements.







VCU
Student profile

Quick university statsInsights on student demographics, enrolment, and academic success
UG Race

Others

53%

Black

20%

Asian

14%

Hispanic

11%

UG Student residence

In state

92%

Out of state

6%

Foreign

1%

UG Age distribution

24 and under

90%

25 and over

9%

UG Applicant Icon

UG Number of Applicant

18242
grad RateIcon

Overall Graduation Rate

65
UG Enroll Icon

UG Enrollment

20958
PG Enroll Icon

PG Enrollment

7124

Virginia Commonwealth University Notable Alumni

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Virginia Commonwealth Vs Virginia Vs Colorado Denver: Which is better?

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Compare VCU with other similar colleges

MS
MBA/PGDM
B.E. / B.Tech
M.Arch
MDS
B.Sc.
BFA
M.A.
MFA
MPH
College1st Year Tuition FeesRanking
INR 6.19 L - 35.28 L#139 US News, 2026
INR 0 - 9.75 L#535 QS, 2026
INR 12.65 L -/-
INR 10.9 L - 11.38 L#1501 THE, 2026
INR 13.95 L - 39.48 L#42 US News, 2026
INR 17.98 L - 51.01 L#110 US News, 2026
The values are of the latest years available with Shiksha. For more details, check detailed comparison
View comparisonsRight Arrow Icon
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Commonly asked questions
On Comparisons
Q:   Which is better among Virginia Commonwealth University and University of Virginia?
A: 

Virginia Commonwealth University and University of Virginia are some of the best universities for pursuing higher education in the USA.  According to Shiksha Grading Virginia Commonwealth University has an overall ranking of 397 in world and University of Virginia has an overall ranking of 217 in world. The average salary of VCU graduates is INR 81.23 LPA. Whereas, the average salary of Virginia University graduate is INR 44.27 LPA. In terms of average graduate salary, Virginia Commonwealth University stands taller as compared to University of Virginia. Furthermore, check the comparison table listed below of these two universities:

Parameters

Virginia Commonwealth University

University of Virginia

Establishment

1838

1819

Location

Richmond, Virginia, USA

Charlottesville, Virginia, USA

Shiksha Popularity Rankings

#397 in World

#217 in World

University Type

Public

Public

Acceptance Rate

93%

19%

Placement Rate

78%

94%

Average Salary

INR 81.23 LPA

INR 45.27 LPA

UG Annual Fee

INR 30.51 L - 34.29 L

INR 45.18 L - 55.26 L

PG Annual Fee

INR 5.86 L - 33.44 L

INR 22.09 L - 73.5 L

Popular Streams

Business | Psychology | Education

Biology | Chemical Engineering | Computer Engineering

VCU
Studying in USA

Key Facts About USA

Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Education in USA
school Key Fact Icon
963+
backpack Key Fact Icon
3.38L
cashRegister Key Fact Icon
20 hours per week
cashRegister Key Fact Icon
12 months
Country stats
mapPin Key Fact Icon
Washington D.C.
keyUsers Key Fact Icon
347.28M (2025)
chartMixed Key Fact Icon
2%
letterA Key Fact Icon
English
Weather
January
CF
Popular LocationsMinMax
Boston-53
New York-34
Chicago-60
Los Angeles1020
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Virginia Commonwealth University Campus Life

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VCU

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 2 years ago

VCU offers several financial aid services to students to help them manage their higher education expenses through scholarships loans and work study employment. In 2018-19 an average amount of USD 17153 was awarded to fulltime students as financial aid. Here are some financial aid options open for in

...Read more

53480381
Rashmi Gupta

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 years ago

The eligibility requirements for international applicants are:

Undergraduate Admissions

Students should have graduated from a secondary school or equivalent (lyceum, senior middle school, university preparatory school, completion of GCSE exams, Standard 12 graduation, etc.), which typically consists o

...Read more

53480381
Rashmi Gupta

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 years ago

Oncampus housing is available at Virginia Commonwealth University. Aspirants who live on campus at VCU are more likely to interact with faculty members outside of the classroom seek employment on campus attend cultural events and participate in clubs and organizations. The different halls available

...Read more

53480381
Rashmi Gupta

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

author image
Loveleen Sharma

Study Abroad Expert

Loveleen is a seasoned content writer with 4+ years of experience, currently writing for Shiksha. When he is not writing and helping students, he can be found at the movies, reading fiction, and learning a new language.
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VCU
Location

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University CityRichmond, Virginia, USA
Size of cityMedium
Population of City2,27,032

VCU
Campuses

Departments Icon2   Campuses
Monroe Park CampusUp Arrow Icon
Address

N Linden St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States

Visit official site External Link Icon

VCU
Contact Information

Address

821 W Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23284, United States
Richmond ( Virginia)

Go to College Website ->