UVA vs VCU

[witheredmorningstars]

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Hello, I'm having a difficult time making a decision between these two great in-state schools, and your perspective would be incredibly helpful. I am anxious because I got a few apartment offers asking me to decide asap. I haven't heard back from financial aid, which is a big part of my decision-making, but I would like some advice on other factors, too. Thank you!

UVA

Pros:
• Went to undergrad here, knows the area well, and has friends living there.
• Flexible exam scheduling that's P/F.
• A potential clerkship at Inova that would really help with cost if I live with family, but I won't know if that's possible until April.

Cons:
• May need a car, public transportation is not reliable based on experience.
• A lot more expensive, 55k tuition+fee last year. That's already above the current annual federal loan limit, though I don't know if they included more items in tuition than VCU.
• Haven't gone to the second look day, don't know enough details about medical school in particular.

VCU

Pros:
• Done the school tour and really liked it, everyone's super nice with good vibes.
• Seems to be supportive, offers a pre‑matriculation program.
• Got programs like I2CRP for the underserved that are not restricted to primary care.
• 41k tuition+fee for the year before last year.

Cons:
• In-house exams.
• Didn't really like how empty the downtown area is, not familiar with Richmond.

 

[riv_jordan]

Honestly, I think you just have to wait to hear back from financial aid. I'm sure you know that most would consider UVA the superior school and if you went to undergrad there and you enjoyed living in the area, you'll likely also enjoy the med school. That said, VCU is definitely a great medical school. It sounds like you're interested in staying in or around virginia for residency, so either school will help with that. Assuming no financial aid from either, the cost difference you listed doesn't seem huge. I'd see if one school can offer a significant scholarship and if so, I'd follow the money.