Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia
USD 1200
USD 30500
91
Overview
About
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a prominent public research university located in Richmond, Virginia, USA. Established in 1838 as the Medical College of Virginia (MCV), it has a rich history and a strong commitment to academic excellence, research, and community engagement.
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History: VCU's history traces back to the Medical College of Virginia, which was founded in 1838. In 1968, it merged with the Richmond Professional Institute to form Virginia Commonwealth University.
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Academic Excellence: VCU is known for its commitment to academic excellence across a wide range of disciplines. It offers a diverse array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs.
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Research: VCU is classified as a "Research University with Very High Research Activity" by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. It is renowned for its cutting-edge research in various fields, including health sciences, engineering, the arts, and social sciences.
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Campuses: VCU operates multiple campuses in Richmond, including the Monroe Park Campus, MCV Campus (Medical Campus), and additional facilities dedicated to research and healthcare. These campuses contribute to a vibrant and dynamic learning environment.
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Community Engagement: The university places a strong emphasis on community engagement and service. VCU students and faculty are actively involved in various community outreach programs, contributing to the betterment of Richmond and beyond.
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Notable Programs: VCU is particularly known for its programs in health sciences, including the VCU Medical Center, which is one of the top academic medical centers in the United States. Additionally, it offers renowned programs in the arts, business, engineering, and more.
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Diverse Student Body: VCU prides itself on its diverse student body, with students from various backgrounds and countries contributing to a rich and inclusive academic environment.
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Accreditation: Virginia Commonwealth University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring that it meets high academic and institutional standards.
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Notable Alumni: VCU boasts a wide range of accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. These include artists, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, and more.
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Global Reach: VCU has a global presence through international partnerships and research collaborations, providing students with opportunities for a global perspective on their education and research.
Official Website: www.vcu.edu
Year of Establishment: VCU was established in 1838 as the Medical College of Virginia (MCV). In 1968, it merged with Richmond Professional Institute to form Virginia Commonwealth University.
University Address:
- The main campus of VCU is situated in the heart of Richmond, Virginia. The address for the Monroe Park Campus is:
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- 901 West Main Street
- Richmond, Virginia 23284
- The VCU Medical Center, including the MCV Campus, is located nearby at:
- Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center
- 1250 East Marshall Street
- Richmond, Virginia 23298
Country Rank: 91 in Webometrics United States of America National Ranking. VCU is considered a respected research university in the United States and is well-regarded for various programs and research initiatives.
University Type: VCU is a public research university, which means it is funded by the state of Virginia and places a strong emphasis on research, scholarship, and academic excellence.
Accreditation: Virginia Commonwealth University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), a regional accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that VCU meets high academic and institutional quality standards.
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Facilities
Facilities for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
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International Student Office: VCU has a dedicated International Student and Scholar Programs (ISSP) office to assist international students with various immigration, visa, and cultural adjustment matters. They provide guidance on visa regulations, employment options, and cultural integration.
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Orientation Programs: VCU offers comprehensive orientation programs for incoming international students. These programs cover essential information about academic life, immigration regulations, and campus resources. They also include cultural activities and events to help students adjust to their new environment.
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Academic Support Services: VCU provides a range of academic support services, including tutoring, writing centers, and academic advising, to help international students excel in their studies. These resources are available to all students, regardless of their nationality.
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English Language Support: For non-native English speakers, VCU offers English as a Second Language (ESL) programs and language labs to improve language proficiency. These programs assist students in enhancing their communication skills, which are crucial for academic success.
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Cultural and Social Activities: VCU organizes various cultural and social activities throughout the year to promote interaction and understanding among students from different backgrounds. These events include international festivals, workshops, and international student clubs.
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Health Services: The university provides comprehensive health services to all students, including international students. Health centers on campus offer medical care, counseling, and wellness programs to ensure students' physical and mental well-being.
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Housing Options: VCU offers a variety of on-campus housing options for international students. These include residence halls and apartment-style accommodations. Living on campus provides convenience and fosters a sense of community.
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Dining Facilities: The university has dining facilities that cater to diverse dietary preferences, including international cuisines. Students can choose from a range of meal plans and dining locations across the campus.
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Career Services: VCU's career services help international students explore career options, find internships, and connect with potential employers. They offer workshops, resume-building assistance, and job search resources.
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Safety and Security: VCU prioritizes the safety of its students. The campus is equipped with safety measures, including campus police, emergency response systems, and escort services, to ensure a secure environment.
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Libraries and Research Centers: VCU libraries provide extensive resources, both physical and digital, to support research and coursework. Additionally, international students have access to specialized research centers and labs within their respective academic departments.
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Transportation: The university offers transportation options, including shuttles and public transit, to facilitate students' movement within and around the campus and the city of Richmond.
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Student Organizations: VCU has a wide range of student organizations and clubs, including international student associations. Joining these groups allows international students to connect with peers who share similar interests and backgrounds.
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Childcare Services: For international students with families, VCU provides childcare services and resources to help balance academic pursuits with family responsibilities.
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Financial Aid and Scholarships: VCU offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students, helping to make education more affordable.
Notable Alumni
An indie rock musician and songwriter, Lucy Dacus gained recognition for her albums, including No Burden and Historian. Her music has received critical acclaim for its introspective and emotional lyrics.
A professional bodybuilder and artist, Kai Greene is known for his impressive physique and numerous bodybuilding titles. He has also ventured into art, including painting and sculpting.
A renowned architect, Steven Holl is recognized for his innovative architectural designs. His notable projects include the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art in Helsinki and the Linked Hybrid complex in Beijing.
Ranking
- 91 in Webometrics United States of America National Ranking
- 194 in Webometrics World Ranking
Available Courses
B.S. in Biology
B.S. in Computer Engineering
Masters of Public Administration
M.S. in Physiology and Biophysics
Master of Teaching
M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences - Pharmacoeconomics and Health Outcomes
Scholarship
Scholarships for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
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Global Excellence Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding incoming international undergraduate students. It provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of study at VCU. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and their potential to contribute to the VCU community.
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International Student Scholarships: VCU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships vary in award amounts and eligibility criteria. They are typically based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments.
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VCU Presidential International Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students pursuing graduate studies at VCU. The awards cover partial tuition costs and are granted based on academic excellence. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and meet specific GPA requirements.
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VCU School of Business Scholarships: The School of Business at VCU offers scholarships for international graduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships aim to support students who have demonstrated exceptional academic and leadership qualities.
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VCU Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College at VCU provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.
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VCUarts Scholarships: For international students interested in pursuing degrees in the arts, VCUarts offers scholarships that are specific to their programs. These scholarships may include awards for outstanding portfolios or auditions.
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VCU School of Engineering Scholarships: International students studying engineering at VCU may be eligible for scholarships offered by the School of Engineering. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and career aspirations in engineering fields.
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Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at VCU may offer scholarships to international students within their specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by department.
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External Scholarships: VCU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The university's scholarship office provides guidance on finding and applying for external scholarships.
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Graduate Assistantships: While not traditional scholarships, graduate assistantships at VCU provide international graduate students with opportunities for financial support. These positions may include teaching, research, or administrative roles and often come with stipends and tuition waivers.
It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and application procedures for each scholarship they are interested in. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is typically a requirement to retain scholarship awards.
Finances
Finances at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
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Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for international students at VCU. However, students may have the option to waive this coverage if they have alternative insurance that meets university requirements.
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Additional Fees: Students should budget for additional fees, such as student activity fees, technology fees, and others, which can amount to several hundred dollars per year.
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Scholarships and Financial Aid: VCU offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to both domestic and international students. International students are encouraged to explore scholarship options offered by the university, including merit-based scholarships, departmental scholarships, and external scholarship opportunities. Financial aid options for international students may be limited, so it's essential to plan finances accordingly.
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Part-Time Employment: International students on F-1 visas are generally allowed to work part-time on campus during the academic year and full-time during designated breaks. Part-time employment can help offset living expenses.
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Assistantships: Graduate students may have the opportunity to secure graduate assistantships, which can provide a stipend and, in some cases, tuition remission. Availability and stipend amounts vary by department.
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Financial Planning: Creating a budget and financial plan is crucial for international students. It's advisable to research and apply for scholarships early, explore cost-effective housing options, and manage expenses diligently.
Accommodation
Accommodation at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
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On-Campus Housing: VCU offers a variety of on-campus housing options for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These options include residence halls, apartment-style housing, and living-learning communities. Key features of on-campus housing include:
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Residence Halls: VCU's residence halls provide traditional dormitory-style living with shared rooms and communal facilities. They offer a vibrant community atmosphere and are often preferred by first-year students.
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Apartment-Style Housing: VCU also provides apartment-style housing options that include single and double bedrooms, private bathrooms, and fully-equipped kitchens. These apartments offer more independence and privacy.
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Living-Learning Communities: These are themed housing options that allow students with similar academic or personal interests to live together. Examples include honors housing and wellness communities.
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Amenities: On-campus housing at VCU typically includes amenities such as high-speed internet, laundry facilities, common areas, and 24/7 security. Meal plans are available for students who live in residence halls.
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Application Process: To secure on-campus housing, international students must complete the housing application provided by VCU's Residential Life and Housing. The application usually opens well in advance of the academic year, so students are encouraged to apply early to increase their chances of securing their preferred housing option.
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Off-Campus Housing: Some international students may choose to live off-campus in privately-owned apartments or houses. Richmond, Virginia, where VCU is located, offers various housing options within close proximity to the university. Students can explore websites, local listings, and real estate agencies to find suitable off-campus housing.
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Cost of Housing: The cost of on-campus housing at VCU varies depending on the type of accommodation and meal plan chosen. Prices for on-campus housing in the 2021-2022 academic year ranged from approximately $7,000 to $13,000 per year, including a meal plan. Off-campus housing costs can vary widely based on location and amenities.
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Temporary Accommodation: For international students arriving at VCU before securing permanent housing, temporary accommodation options may be available, such as nearby hotels or temporary housing provided by the university.
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Housing Resources: VCU's Residential Life and Housing office provides information, resources, and guidance to assist international students in finding suitable housing. They can help students navigate the application process and provide advice on off-campus housing options.
It's important for international students to plan their accommodation well in advance of their arrival at VCU, as on-campus housing can be in high demand, and off-campus options may require time to secure.
Cost Of Living
Living costs for international students in the United States can vary depending on the location and individual preferences.
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Off-campus Accommodation: The cost of off-campus accommodation, such as renting an apartment or sharing a house, can range from $500 to $1,500 per month, depending on the location, size, and amenities.
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On-Campus Accommodation: On-campus accommodation options, including dormitories or student housing, typically range from $500 to $1,200 per month, depending on the university and the type of room.
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Transportation Cost per month: Monthly transportation expenses can vary based on the city and transportation choices. On average, public transportation costs can range from $50 to $100 per month, while owning a car can incur additional costs such as insurance, fuel, and parking.
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Food Cost per month: The average monthly food expenses for an international student can range from $200 to $500, depending on dining preferences, cooking at home, or eating out. Students can save money by preparing their meals and taking advantage of student meal plans if available.
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Utility Cost per month: Utilities such as electricity, water, heating, and internet can cost around $100 to $200 per month, depending on the location, season, and usage.
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Entertainment Cost per month: Entertainment expenses, including social activities, movies, concerts, and other recreational pursuits, can vary based on personal preferences. On average, students can allocate around $100 to $200 per month for entertainment.
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Groceries Cost per month: The monthly cost for groceries can range from $150 to $300, depending on dietary preferences, cooking habits, and location.
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Clothes: The cost of clothing can vary based on individual preferences and needs. A rough estimate for clothing expenses can be around $50 to $100 per month.
Total cost per month: Considering the above estimates, the average total monthly living cost for an international student in the United States can range from approximately $1,500 to $2,000.
NOTE : It's important that these figures are approximate and can vary based on individual lifestyle choices, city location, and personal spending habits. It's advisable for students to create a budget based on their specific circumstances to better manage their living expenses while studying in the USA.
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Virginia Commonwealth University Entry Requirements
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: US$ 80
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.5.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 70 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 53 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 105 is required.
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: US$ 70
Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 80% or above.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 100 is often required.
- PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 65 is often required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 120 is required.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to the Virginia Commonwealth University. Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review of the applicant's academic qualifications, English proficiency, supporting documents (such as transcripts and recommendation letters), and other relevant factors.
Virginia Commonwealth University Fees
Tuition Fees for International Postgraduate Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
- Tuition fees for international postgraduate students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) can vary depending on the specific program and the number of credit hours taken. The tuition fees for international graduate students generally range from $30,500 to $32,000 per year.
It's important to note that tuition fees may increase annually, and there might be additional fees for certain programs, courses, or services.
Virginia Commonwealth University Placement
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is known for its strong commitment to providing students with valuable career development and job placement support. VCU has a robust Career Services department that offers a wide range of resources and services to help students prepare for their careers and find job opportunities upon graduation.
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Career Services: VCU's Career Services is dedicated to assisting students at all stages of their career development journey. They provide services such as resume building, interview preparation, career counseling, and job search strategies.
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Internships: VCU encourages students to gain practical experience through internships. Many academic programs, especially in fields like business, engineering, and healthcare, have internship requirements or opportunities built into the curriculum. Internships provide students with hands-on experience and often lead to job offers after graduation.
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Co-op Programs: Some programs at VCU, particularly in engineering and technology, offer co-op programs where students work with companies in paid positions while still in school. Co-op experiences can enhance employability and build industry connections.
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Networking Events: VCU hosts various networking events, career fairs, and employer information sessions throughout the year. These events provide students with opportunities to meet with potential employers and learn about job openings.
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Alumni Connections: VCU has a vast network of alumni who are often willing to mentor and assist current students in their career pursuits. The university facilitates alumni-student connections through events and online platforms.
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Online Job Portal: VCU offers an online job portal where students and alumni can access job listings, internships, and co-op opportunities posted by employers specifically looking to hire VCU graduates.
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Job Placement Rates: VCU takes pride in its high job placement rates for graduates. The university's career services team tracks and reports on the employment outcomes of alumni, demonstrating VCU's success in helping students transition into the workforce.
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Career Advising: VCU's academic advisors and career counselors work closely with students to align their academic goals with career aspirations. They assist in selecting courses, majors, and minors that align with a student's desired career path.
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Professional Development: VCU offers workshops and seminars on professional development topics, including resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies. These resources help students stand out in the competitive job market.
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Employer Partnerships: The university collaborates with local, national, and international employers to create opportunities for students. Employers often seek VCU graduates due to the university's reputation for producing well-prepared professionals.
It's important to note that job placement success often depends on a student's field of study, individual effort, and market conditions. Students are encouraged to actively engage with career services, seek internships and co-op experiences, and network with professionals in their chosen industries to enhance their job prospects.
FAQ'S of Virginia Commonwealth University
VCU is located in Richmond, Virginia, USA, with multiple campuses throughout the city.
VCU is comprised of various schools and colleges, including the School of Medicine, School of Business, College of Engineering, School of the Arts, College of Humanities and Sciences, and many more. VCU offers a wide range of academic programs across these units.
VCU had an enrollment of approximately 32,000 students, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.
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