How to apply for aid

The financial aid application process begins every year on October 1 for the federal award year, which begins the following August. Most students are eligible for financial aid at Virginia Commonwealth University, regardless of financial circumstances.

Since financial aid is a limited resource and distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis, we encourage students to complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid as soon as possible.

Keep reading for our step-by-step checklist on how to apply for aid and then review and receive awards.

Need help?

Get in touch with a financial counselor:

The Virtual Student Services Center also can help you find answers to a number of questions about tuition and fees, bills and payments, financial aid and more. It features a live chat option and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Visit the Virtual Student Services Center

Financial aid checklist

Below are detailed instructions you can refer to as you complete the financial aid process. If you are new to VCU, apply for financial aid after submitting your application for a degree or certificate program. An admission decision is not needed before applying for financial aid.

Need to apply for summer aid?

Students who receive financial aid during the regular school year and anticipate enrolling for a summer session should plan their budget ahead of time. To be considered for summer aid, students must have completed the FAFSA for the prior academic year.

Learn more about summer aid