It can be difficult to maintain cultural norms while living in a new country, where you are surrounded by cultural differences. However, with students from more than 110 countries, Virginia Commonwealth University does its best to help international students acclimate to a Western culture. Whether it is religion, food, exercise or entertainment, we will help you practice your cultural norms. Student and Scholar Services can assist you with all you may need, and please use this site for further assistance.
While you are here
- Once you arrive, we will educate you on most everything you need to know about being a VCU student, starting with our orientation sessions during the first week you're here. At the sessions, you will meet OIE staff members who will become some of your closest friends while you’re at VCU.
- Is this your first time to the United States? Have you been here but never visited Washington, D.C., New York, the beach or the mountains? Now is your chance. Student and Scholar Services offers trips for international students so they can experience more of the country than just Richmond during their stay.
- So you are here on campus – what now? Learn more about student life, including housing, transportation, dining, campus activities and sports.
- VCU has nearly 200 student organizations, from fraternities and sororities to religious and cultural organizations. These organizations are a great way to meet people and attend multicultural events. You can join an organization or start your own.