Top Hat for Students

Getting Started with Top Hat


      Single Sign-on Guide       Student Quick Start Guide

Student Accounts / Subscriptions

  • Top Hat is free for ALL VCU students. Please review the eligibility requirements in the section below.
  • VCU's software license agreement with Top Hat covers the standard and pro features listed under the "Pro" offering: https://tophat.com/pricing/.
  • The agreement DOES NOT cover add-ons and additional content such as remote proctoring, textbooks, homework packs, and other non-core standard/pro features.
  • If you are presented with a balance due for your course(s), please review with your instructor(s) to verify if they are requiring the purchase of a textbook, remote proctoring, or other add-ons and/or content first before reaching out to us. This is managed on a per-course basis by your instructor and is NOT managed, promoted, or otherwise included within courses by VCU Technology Services in any way.

Student Eligibility Requirements

  • Students must be currently enrolled in at least one credit-bearing course with an affiliation of “student” to qualify for a free subscription.
  • Students of summer programs, seminars, and other short-term offerings may not be eligible for a Top Hat subscription.
  • To verify your eligibility, please contact us at tophat@vcu.edu.

Student Resources and Assistance

  • For initial account creation and to join your courses, please review the links above.
  • If you are enrolled in a course that is requesting payment, please consult with your instructor(s) first before reaching out to us. They may be requiring the use of a textbook, homework pack, add-on(s), or other course materials not included in our agreement with Top Hat.
  • To verify your eligibility, please contact us at tophat@vcu.edu.

For all other questions contact the VCU IT Support Center. Your request will be assessed and routed to the appropriate team at VCU or Top Hat.