RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Beginning this fall, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) students will pay at least $600 more in tuition and fees under the school's new budget plan. The VCU Board of Visitors on Friday approved a 3.9% increase in tuition and fees for in-state undergraduate students, add ing $723 for the 2026-27 school year. Students enrolled in 15 credits per semester will now pay $17,963 in tuition and mandatory fees after the change. The school said the increase seeks to offset inflation and mandated cost increases -- including military tuition waivers, salary rises and other service contracts -- while supporting investments in student success. Those investments include funding for student internships, graduate stipends and high-demand academic programs. PREVIOUS: VCU students could see tuition and fee increase during 2026-2027 fiscal year Under the budget plan, fees will rise by $168 for the university fee, $20 for the student activity fee and $8 for the technology fee. The school's standard double-occupancy room rate will also increase by $441, and the number of swipes per semester for student meal plans will rise by $320. Full-time master's students will see a $739 increase, while doctoral students will pay $643 more. See the school's budget plan here. ...read more read less