We respond within 72 business hours to submissions made through our Request for Assistance Form or by email at advocacy@vcu.edu.

Yes. You don't have to be in a crisis to contact OSA. Whether you have a question, need help understanding a university process, or aren't sure where to turn, we're here to help connect you with the right resources.

Yes. If you're unsure where to start, start with OSA. Our advocates can help you understand your options and connect you with the office or resources that best fit your situation.

OSA cannot make decisions on behalf of professors, staff, or other university offices. However, we can guide you through processes, connect you with helpful resources, and refer you to the appropriate office for additional support.

We understand that you may have a preference for a particular advocate. To ensure you receive the most timely and appropriate support, we assign the advocate who is best suited to address your specific concerns.

The Student Emergency Fund is a grant available once per academic year to help students experiencing unexpected emergencies that directly affect their ability to continue their studies. Eligible students may receive up to $500 for a qualifying emergency.

The Housing Assistance Fund helps students who need additional support securing or maintaining housing so they can remain enrolled. This funding is intended to supplement your financial aid and other funding sources, not replace them.

No. OSA cannot provide direct financial assistance for tuition costs. However, our advocates can meet with you to discuss available options, including scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid.

You can begin your search by visiting our Off-Campus Housing website, where you can search for apartments, find roommates, and explore additional housing resources. If you have questions, you can also email offcampus@vcu.edu.

Please visit the Ram Pantry, where you are able to access free groceries weekly. We have shelf stable foods as well as fresh produce. Visit the Ram Pantry website to learn more.

OSA can communicate with your professors regarding circumstances such as illnesses, injuries, hospitalizations, and other significant situations. However, each professor has discretion over how they handle absences in their course. We encourage you to review your course syllabus for information about attendance policies and how absences may affect your academic standing.

You can withdraw from a class through eServices by following these steps:

•     Log in to eServices.
•     Select the Students tab.
•     Scroll to the Student Registration section.
•     Select Register for Classes.
•     Choose the appropriate term and click Continue.
•     For the class you wish to withdraw from, select Web Drop from the Action drop-down menu.
•     Click Submit.

Yes, whenever possible. Students are encouraged to communicate directly with their professors first. If you're experiencing circumstances that make that difficult or need additional support, OSA can help you navigate the conversation and available options.

Yes. We can help you understand university policies, discuss possible next steps, and connect you with the appropriate resources. While we cannot change academic decisions, we can help you navigate the process.

Yes. OSA can discuss available support, help notify your professors when appropriate, and connect you with campus resources during a difficult time.

Yes. OSA can connect you with appropriate campus resources and help coordinate support if your mental health is affecting your academic experience. If you're experiencing a mental health emergency, contact University Counseling Services, VCU Police (804-828-1234), or 911 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.

Yes. We can discuss available support, help communicate with your instructors when appropriate, and connect you with additional campus resources.