About

About Virginia State University

hbcupublic institutionsmall class sizesbusiness and education focusaccessible admissions

Virginia State University is a public university in Petersburg, VA, known for its HBCU designation, public institution, and small class sizes. With an acceptance rate of 90%, VSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 1,382 students each year. VSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 830–1030, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. VSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $9,509 per year; the sticker price of $35,428 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Virginia State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

90%
Overall Accept Rate
930
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 830 – 1030 (test optional)

Build your free list to see where your scores land →

Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Virginia State University

Application Strategy
Virginia State University is an HBCU with a strong commitment to student success and community uplift, so highlight in your application any involvement in community service, mentorship, or programs that reflect those values.
Application Strategy
VSU has a 1890 land-grant mission with standout programs in agriculture and STEM, so if you are applying to those areas, mention any hands-on experience, 4-H involvement, or science competitions that connect directly to that focus.

Financial Aid & Cost

What Virginia State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$35k/yr$13.2k
30k-48k~$35k/yr$14.8k
48k-75k~$35k/yr$19.5k
75k-110k~$35k/yr$22.2k
110k+~$35k/yr$25.5k

Not sure what Virginia State University would cost your family? Build your free SpearMatch list. We show estimated net cost for every college on your list based on your income bracket.

Unlock real pricing for Virginia State University and matching colleges →

Personalize this page

Compare your profile to Virginia State University's admitted class

SpearMatch builds a tiered college list from your actual grades, scores, and preferences — and shows where you stand at every college. Free, no account, 4 minutes.

Build My Free List →

✓ Free forever  ·  ✓ No account  ·  ✓ 1,300+ four-year US colleges

Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

41%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$34k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
12:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
3,651
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

83%Black / African American
6%Hispanic
5%Two or More Races
2%Unknown / Unreported
2%White
1%International
0%Asian
0%American Indian / AK Native
Gender41% Men · 59% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status99% Citizens and Immigrants · 1% International
VSU, Petersburg Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch