Understanding VCU's Finances
How we plan, manage and report the university’s resources
VCU Finance Services works across budgeting, procurement, treasury, and compliance functions so that every dollar is managed responsibly and transparently. This page provides an easy-to-understand overview of how VCU’s finances work: where our funding comes from, how it’s allocated, how we spend and how we plan for the future—through key areas including the All Funds Budget, Capital Funds, University Cash & Investments, and Foundations.
VCU is funded by a combination of public and private sources. These include:
- State Appropriations – Annual funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia
- Tuition & Fees – Paid by students to support instruction, services and operations
- Grants & Contracts – Federal, state, and private funding for research and public service
- Auxiliary Enterprises – Revenue from housing, dining, parking, and campus services
- Gifts & Endowments – Donor contributions managed by VCU’s affiliated foundations
Each funding source comes with different rules and uses—but all are essential to delivering on the university’s mission.
Each year, the VCU Budget Office works with university leadership to create an annual operating budget. This process is guided by:
- University strategic priorities
- Enrollment trends
- State funding decisions
- Operational needs across colleges, schools, and departments
The result is a balanced “All Funds” budget that reflects the full range of resources across the institution—not just general funds.
VCU invests its resources in ways that directly support student success, faculty excellence, research, and day-to-day operations.
Procurement Services ensures that all purchases adhere to state guidelines and university policies.
Treasury Services oversees VCU’s working capital, investments and debt portfolio. Their goal is to maintain strong liquidity for daily operations while planning for long-term obligations and growth.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing day-to-day cash flow
- Investing reserve funds prudently
- Overseeing the university’s bond debt and financial obligations
- Supporting capital projects through structured financing
VCU uses capital funding, which is separate from the day-to-day operating budget, to invest in major projects like new academic buildings, classroom renovations, and infrastructure improvements.
Our commitment to transparency
As a public institution, VCU is committed to sharing clear, accurate financial information. We regularly publish budgets, reports, and audit findings to keep the community informed and engaged.
View Annual Reports & Financial Documents ›
Questions?
If you have questions about VCU’s finances or need assistance understanding specific data or reports, please contact us.