Transfer Center

Strategic Enrollment Management and Student Success

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NEXT STEP VCU

Navigating Educational eXcellence Together

Virginia Commonwealth University has partnered with select Virginia community colleges to help students navigate their educational journey from community college through successful completion of an associate’s degree to graduation with a bachelor’s degree at VCU. The NEXT STEP VCU dual admission program provides eligible community college students with personalized academic advising guidance, community-building activities, and transition services that will help you graduate from VCU in a timely, cost-effective manner and plan for a career or graduate school. 

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What are the benefits of the NEXT STEP VCU program?

Cost Savings

Reduce the cost of a bachelor’s degree by completing two years at community college (approximate saving of up to $25,000 over the course of your education)

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Credit Guarantee

Course recommendations through transfer maps and personalized advising that ensure all of your community college credits will transfer to VCU and apply to bachelor’s degree requirements.

 

Coordinated advising

Proactive support from community college advisor and VCU transfer advisors to help you stay on track to finish your associate degree and transition successfully to VCU.

 

Community

Join the VCU community while still enrolled at your community college and make new friends who are on the same educational journey as you.

 

Who is eligible?

The NEXT STEP VCU program is available to students who meet the following requirements:

  • Hold a high school diploma or GED.
  • Attend one of the following community colleges: Reynolds Community College.
  • Earn a minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average on the first 12 credits attempted at your community college.
  • Plan to enroll in a VCU degree with an approved NEXT STEP transfer map
  • Have completed no more than 30 college credits at your community college.*

*The 30-credit limit does not include AP, IB, CLEP, or any other earned credit by exam. High school dual enrollment credit and credit earned at other U.S. or international colleges or universities will apply to the 30-credit limit. 

What are my next steps?

VCU will review your Declaration Form and check your eligibility by the fall deadline of October 15, 2025. 

Questions:

  • Contact the Transfer Center to learn more about the NEXT STEP VCU program

Community college partners

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