University of Richmond

University of Richmond, VA · Private · 2,980 undergrads

Admit rate: 22.2% (15,121 applicants)
SAT middle 50%: 1410–1530 (ACT 33–35)
Undergraduates: 2,980 (10.7% international)
Average net price: $31,309 (per year after aid)
Graduation rate: 85% (within 6 years)

Deadlines

Early Decision: Nov. 1, 2026
Early Action: Nov. 1, 2026
Early Decision II: Jan. 1, 2027
Regular Decision: Jan. 1, 2027

Essays

Richmond Question, option 1 (choose one of three) (350-650 words)

Richmond is a community that strives to be relentlessly welcoming. Tell us about a time you made a space better for other people by helping them feel welcome, heard, included, or supported.

Richmond Question, option 2 (choose one of three) (350-650 words)

Richmond students turn ideas into actions. Tell us about a time you learned by doing, making, building, testing, helping, or leading and what that experience taught you about yourself, the world, or the kind of impact you want to have.

Richmond Question, option 3 (choose one of three) (350-650 words)

Richmond’s mascot is the Spider. Just as you are unique, this singular mascot represents over 52,680 unique species of spiders. Tell us about the communities, experiences, or ambitions that have shaped you into the unique person you are and how you will make your mark as part of a Spider community.

Editor's notes

Richmond fills most of its class early. In the Class of 2030, 48% enrolled through early decision and 23% through early action; regular decision filled 22%. If Richmond is a top choice, apply by Nov. 1, even EA, and you're in the bigger pools.
Dec. 1 is the date that matters for money. Any application on file by then is considered for Richmond Scholars (full tuition, housing and food, up to 25 students), whatever your plan. ED II and RD applicants who wait until Jan. 1 give that up.
The Richmond essay is 350 to 650 words, so it's a second full essay, not a short supplement. Choose a prompt that shows a side of you the personal statement doesn't, and plan to land well above the minimum.
Richmond calls test-optional a temporary change for students entering in fall 2027. If you have strong scores, sending them is fine; if you don't, the CDS rates rigor and GPA very important, so your transcript carries more of the load.