Institute for Democratic Empowerment and Pluralism

Department of Political Science

Announcing the 2025 Fall Virginia Government Simulation

November 12–14, 2025 | VCU & Virginia State Capitol, Richmond, VA

A group of students sitting in the chamber of the Virginia State Capitol

The Institute for Democratic Empowerment and Pluralism at Virginia Commonwealth University is thrilled to welcome undergraduate students from across the Commonwealth to the 2025 Fall Virginia Government Simulation (VGS)—a three-day immersive experience designed to bring the legislative process to life.

 

 

Legislation Pre-filing Form

Submit VGS Legislation

We recommend that each delegation submit one piece of legislation for every two delegates in your group. Please note that this form should be submitted by your Chief Patron.

What Is VGS?

Modeled on real-world governance, VGS allows students to:

  • Draft and introduce legislation

  • Elect party leadership

  • Debate, amend, and vote on bills in committee and on the floor

Through hands-on, role-based participation, students develop critical skills in research, public speaking, negotiation, and evidence-based decision-making—skills vital not just for public service, but for leadership in any career path.

Who Can Participate?

Undergraduate students from Virginia universities, colleges, and community colleges are welcome to participate—no prior experience is required. VGS is a uniquely inclusive space for developing legislative literacy and civic leadership, regardless of academic major or political affiliation.

Event OverviewVoting Display Board

📍 Location: Virginia State Capitol, Richmond, VA

🗓️ Dates: November 12-14, 2025

🕐 Format: 

  • Morning committe session

  • Afternoon floor debates

  • Evenings reserved for social and civic programming (walking tours, networking, ect.)

This year's simulation builds on lessons from 2024, with expanded committe time, streamlined procedures, and more opportunities for student leadership.

2025 VGS Schedule at a Glance

Wednesday, November 12th - Arrival & Opening at VCU

  • Optional tour of the Captiol: Time TBD
  • 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Registration - 2nd Floor Lobby Area 
  • 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Welcome Remarks & Initial Instructions 
  • 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Party Caucuses
  • 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Working Dinner (Provided)
  • 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM: Leadership Meeting

Thursday, November 13th - Legislative Simulation at VA State Capitol 

  • 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Breakfast (On your own)
  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Morning Session: Committee Hearings
  • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch (Provided)
  • 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Afternoon Session: Full Floor Debate
  • 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Optional Activity (Provided)
  • 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner (On your own)

Friday, November 14th - Full Legislative Session & Closing at VA State Capitol + VCU

  • 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Breakfast (On your own)
  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Morning Session: Committee Hearings
  • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch (Provided)
  • 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Afternoon Session: Full Floor Debate
  • 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Free Time
  • 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Closing Reception - Room 216
  • After 7:30 PM: Delegation Departure

Important Dates and Deadlines

VGS intent to register a delegation deadline………………………………………..September 22, 2025

VGS seat allocation determined & publicized………………………………………September 24, 2025

VGS registration deadline……………………………………………………………….........October 10, 2025

Legislation pre-filing begins……………………………………………………………........October 13, 2025

Legislation pre-file deadline……………………………………………………………........October 24, 2025

VGS convenes………………………………………………………………………….................November 12, 2025

VGS adjourns sine die………………………………………………………………..............November 14, 2025