VCU Admission - What do they really look at?

So, I've got VCU on my radar for applications. Do they focus more on GPA or extracurricular involvement? Also, what's the general admission criteria?

VCU, like many universities, employs a holistic approach in their application review, meaning they take multiple aspects of your application into account. Two crucial components are your academic performance (reflected in your GPA, coursework, and standardized test scores) and your extracurricular involvements.

However, academic performance is typically given a bit more weight. VCU looks closely at your high school curriculum and your grades. They're particularly interested in how you have performed in core academic subjects. They seek students who have rigorously challenged themselves with their course selections throughout high school, particularly if those courses align with your intended major at VCU.

Your extracurricular involvements also play a significant role in VCU's review process. VCU values students who demonstrate dedication to their community, leadership attributes, and a commitment to activities outside of classroom instruction. Rather than solely focusing on the number of activities, VCU is more interested in the depth of your involvement and the impact you've had.

VCU does consider standardized test scores in their admissions process. However, they have a test-optional policy, meaning you can choose whether to submit your SAT or ACT scores. If you feel these scores accurately reflect your academic ability, feel free to include them. If not, you can opt not to, without any penalty.

Moreover, VCU requires an essay and recommendations from a counselor and teacher. These components give admissions officials insight into your character, your work ethic, and other personal attributes that grades and scores might not fully capture. Be sure to put careful thought into your essay and select recommenders who know you well and can speak positively about you both as a student and a person.

Lastly, VCU also considers your family's financial circumstances. They aim to create a socioeconomically diverse student body, so they utilize an "access model" that serves low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented students. If you fall into these categories, they might take your financial circumstances into account.

To summarize, while GPA and extracurriculars are essential, they're a part of a multi-dimensional review process that takes the wider picture of your accomplishments, character, and circumstances into account. Good luck with your application!