Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Virginia Commonwealth University vs Virginia State University

Richmond, VA · Petersburg, VA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Virginia Commonwealth UniversityVirginia State University
Acceptance Rate93.1%89.1%
In-State Tuition$16,458$9,755
Out-of-State Tuition$39,042$22,006
Average Net Price$22,852$16,184
Graduation Rate65.0%41.0%

GradFax Analysis

Virginia Commonwealth University accepts 93.1% of applicants. Virginia State University accepts 89.1%. Virginia Commonwealth University's in-state tuition is $16,458. Virginia State University's is $9,755. Virginia State University is cheaper. Virginia Commonwealth University graduates 65% of students in 6 years. Virginia State University graduates 41%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $22,852/year at Virginia Commonwealth University and $16,184/year at Virginia State University. Virginia State University is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Virginia Commonwealth University profileVirginia State University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Virginia Commonwealth University or Virginia State University?

Virginia State University. It accepts 89.1% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Virginia Commonwealth University or Virginia State University more affordable?

Virginia State University, on average. After aid, students pay $16,184/year versus $22,852/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Virginia Commonwealth University: 65% of students finish in 6 years. Virginia State University is at 41%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Virginia Commonwealth University vs Virginia State University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax