Virginia Commonwealth University
About
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a vibrant urban public research institution in Richmond, renowned for seamlessly blending top-tier medical research with one of the nation’s highest-ranked public fine arts programs. Academically, VCU shines through its elite School of the Arts—world-famous for sculpture and graphic design—alongside prestigious health sciences programs in nursing, medicine, pharmacy, and social work. Student life is creative, diverse, and deeply integrated into the city’s historic neighborhoods and thriving arts scene, with Richmond itself serving as an extended campus. VCU stands apart for its unique dual-campus layout—split between the bustling Monroe Park Campus and the medical-focused MCV Campus—offering students a rare synergy between cutting-edge clinical innovation and bold artistic expression.
Wikipedia:Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public research university in Richmond, Virginia, United States. VCU was founded in 1838 as the medical department of Hampden–Sydney College, becoming the Medical College of Virginia (MCV) in 1854. In 1968, the Virginia General Assembly merged MCV with the Richmond Professional Institute, founded in 1917, to create Virginia Commonwealth University. In 2025, more than 29,280 students were enrolled in more than 200 academic programs, and 23 VCU programs were ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s top 50 best college programs.
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Essay Requirements
Virginia Commonwealth University accepts the Common Application. All Common App schools require the personal statement essay. Some schools also require supplemental essays — check the school's page on Common App for current prompts and word limits.
See the current Common App essay prompts for the personal statement options.
Outcomes
Student Body
Programs & Earnings
Institutional
Wondering if Virginia Commonwealth University is the right fit for you?
Scout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.