The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for creating a virtual machine as well as a cloud server. A method for creating a virtual machine comprises: in response to a request from a user for creating a virtual machine, loading an operating system for said virtual machine based on a choice made by said user; assembling at least one application for said virtual machine based on a choice made by said user regarding said at least one application, including: based on pre-stored and application-related information, copying files involved in said application to a predetermined location on said virtual machine and changing public resource configuration managed by said operating system. The present invention enables users to flexibly install desirable software at the time of applying for creating a virtual machine without spending too much time.