Richmond is for Virginians: 5 Things to Know About UR
If you're from Virginia, you know that we have dozens of attractive colleges and universities. With so many to choose from, distinguishing between different schools' admission processes, financial aid, and overall benefits is tricky. The array of high-profile public universities can make it especially difficult to understand how private universities like UR fit into the mix. To help you navigate the process of applying to Richmond, here are five things to know about us.
1. At Richmond, you'll truly understand that "home away from home" feeling. The University of Richmond is proud to support 90% of our student body in housing for all four years. This means Richmond's campus is its own ecosystem within the Richmond area. So, while you're close enough to explore all of your favorite spots in the city, you will still be exposed to the conventional "college experience" within Richmond's spaces.
2. If you're looking for a school that will support you in experiential learning, look no further. The University of Richmond emphasizes academic and career opportunities anywhere you want to go. The Richmond Guarantee grants students funding for their research or internships all across the country and around the world; even when attending school in Virginia, the idea of learning at the global level is possible and encouraged.
3. Get ready to build a national and international network. While Virginia is the most represented state at Richmond (18% hail from the Old Dominion), we enroll students from all over the country and all over the world. Of our nearly 3,200 undergraduates, 47 different states, and 62 countries are represented. When you get into your first classroom (which will likely be one of the 98% that are under 30 students), you'll begin to build a network of peers and future alumni that will broaden your horizon.
4. Richmond is undeniably a great city. Whether you grew up five minutes or five hours away, you will always find new things to explore. Whether you're a budding historian, outdoor enthusiast, artist, or foodie, RVA really has it all!
5. Richmond is one of the few institutions nationwide with a commitment to be need-blind in the admission process (for domestic students) while meeting the full cost of demonstrated need. For Virginians, we take this one step further. Through Richmond's Promise to Virginia if your family’s total parental income is $75,000 or less, you qualify for a financial aid package equal to tuition, housing, and food – without loans. Richmond also meets the full demonstrated financial need of all graduates of Richmond Public Schools and public magnet schools through grant and scholarship aid. Additionally, all Virginia residents enrolling full-time in Virginia private colleges and universities are eligible for the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG). VTAG is essentially free money, not based on financial need or merit. The estimated grant is around $5,250.
In short, don’t discount the school down the road just because it feels too close to home or too familiar. If anything on this list resonates with you, keep Richmond on the list. And, if you’re ready to see for yourself I encourage you to schedule a visit!