You’re ready for an advanced degree, so let’s get started
Whether you’re pursuing a certificate, master’s or doctoral degree, we’re ready for you.
We believe in holistic admissions, where we review items such as your academic and professional background, references a statement of intent and, for select programs, interviews.
At first glance, the application process might seem a bit intimidating. We’re here to help break down the pieces and offer tips and suggestions, so you can put together your best application.
The online graduate application is your main portal to submit all required application documents. The system is designed to help you submit the unique materials based on your selected program of study.
Please review your individual program page for the number of references required. Many of our programs require three (3) yet some require fewer for the admissions process. Reference letters should be from individuals who can speak to your academic or professional abilities: professors/instructors, supervisors or co-workers. Ask references to connect your unique strengths to your future program and offer direction on what you’d like them to highlight.
If many years have passed since your last academic program, identify a colleague, mentor or supervisor who has observed how you might have taken a new concept and applied or presented it creatively. Contact us if you have questions about this academic requirement.
Note: We do not accept references from family, friends or clergy, unless you are employed by a religious organization.
The terms “statement of intent” and “personal statement” are used interchangeably for the same application requirement. Your statement should describe your motivations for pursuing a graduate degree at VCU’s School of Education, and how our specific program aligns with your future career goals.
If applying to a doctoral program, you should also describe your research interests and identify VCU or School of Education faculty members who align with those.
Certain programs require specific prompts and guidance, which is detailed on the online application. Review the application before developing your statement of intent.
Contact your previous colleges or universities to request that they submit your official undergraduate and graduate transcripts directly to VCU’s admissions office. If you have sealed envelopes of your transcripts, we can accept them as long as the seal has not been broken.
Sealed envelopes can be sent to:
VCU Graduate Admissions Office
Box 843051
408 W. Franklin Street, Richmond, VA 23284-3051
Official electronic transcripts can be sent directly from your former institution to: gradmail@vcu.edu
You can submit test scores, including the GRE, but we do not require them for admission. If you opt to submit test scores, they will become part of your application and may be used in our admission decision.
However, your program of interest might have specific application criteria that includes testing.
If you’re an international student, you have additional requirements. Learn more.
If needed, our school code for admissions testing is 5570.
Many of our graduate programs include an interview into our decision. You’ll be contacted directly by your program team near the application deadline to schedule an interview if required. Make sure we have your most updated email and phone number.
Once we receive all your application materials, your application will be sent for review. If the application deadline is extended for a program, the timeline will be from the final deadline posted. If you have any questions on your application status, contact soeinfo@vcu.edu.
The online application requests additional forms to provide evidence of your residency status, which will be stated on your letter of acceptance, if admitted. See the Graduate Bulletin for residency requirements.