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UNITED STATES · CHARLOTTESVILLE

University of Virginia

public · Founded 1819 · Languages: en

In short

The University of Virginia is a highly-ranked public institution in Charlottesville, Virginia, known for its academic excellence and value. It offers a wide range of programs and emphasizes a diverse, collaborative learning environment for its students.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1819
Students: 21,000
International students: 3,500
Acceptance rate: 20%
Tuition (intl): €34–39k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Charlottesville, United States

The University of Virginia (UVA) is a publicly funded institution in the United States, consistently recognized for its academic excellence and value. Founded in 1819, UVA is dedicated to advancing knowledge and preparing students to become engaged citizen leaders with a strong sense of empathy, integrity, and truth. The university offers a rich academic experience across its 12 schools, providing a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, majors, minors, degrees, and certificates. UVA emphasizes a collaborative learning environment where students are encouraged to explore their interests and pursue their passions. The university prides itself on fostering a vibrant intellectual community that benefits from diverse perspectives, including a significant international student population. With a commitment to accessibility, UVA aims to make world-class education achievable for qualified students. The institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring adherence to high standards of educational quality and institutional effectiveness. Beyond academics, UVA focuses on student growth and community engagement, preparing graduates for successful careers and impactful contributions to society.

Why study here

Access to a world-class education at a comparatively reasonable cost, consistently ranked for value.
Comprehensive financial aid for eligible undergraduate students, meeting 100% of demonstrated need.
A diverse and inclusive community that values global perspectives and encourages interdisciplinary study.
Strong career prospects and high average starting salaries for graduates, supported by a vast alumni network.
Opportunities to engage with world-class faculty and contribute to impactful research.
A commitment to social responsibility, ethical leadership, and environmental sustainability, as exemplified by initiatives within schools like Darden.

Student life

Life at the University of Virginia is described as a fulfilling experience, blending academic rigor with a rich community atmosphere. Students are encouraged to engage in work and play, learning and growing, forming lasting relationships. UVA offers opportunities to join an uncommon community and participate in the evolving story of an iconic institution. Student organizations, social activities, and cultural events contribute to a dynamic and engaging environment. The Darden School of Business, for instance, highlights various student clubs focusing on energy, net impact, and social responsibility, emphasizing a balanced approach to academic and personal development.

Fees

InternationalThe University of Virginia does not have dedicated scholarships or loans for international students (foreign nationals), with the exception of those attending United World College schools. Prospective international students are advised to ensure they can finance their education.

HomeFor in-state undergraduates, UVA covers tuition, fees, room, and board for families with incomes under $50,000. Tuition and fees are covered for in-state undergraduates with family incomes under $100,000. Virginia families with incomes under $150,000 receive tuition grants of $2,000.

LivingHousing and dining options on Grounds are available separately from tuition and required fees. Further details are available via Housing and Residence Life and Dining Services websites.

Tuition and fee rates are subject to change by the Board of Visitors. The provided Post Bacc Pre-Med Program cost includes a comprehensive fee. Mandatory comprehensive fees are assessed for facilities and services, and Off-Grounds Fees ($12 per credit hour for credit courses, $12 per course for non-credit) apply to students in programs outside Charlottesville or in online courses.

Admissions

Undergraduate ApplicationSubmitted via Common App; no separate application for international students.

Graduate ApplicationSubmitted through the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences online application system (deadlines vary by program, e.g., December 15 for Economics PhD, January 15 for Mathematics and Sociology PhD).

Financial GuaranteeRequired for admitted international students (foreign nationals) to accept the offer of admission.

Letters of RecommendationTypically 2-3 for graduate programs.

Statement of PurposeRequired for most graduate applications.

TranscriptsUnofficial transcripts generally accepted for initial application.

Application Fee$85 for graduate programs ($80 for Architecture), with waivers available for U.S. citizens in certain circumstances and automatically for citizens of some countries. SCPS has waived application fees for certificate and degree programs through Fall 2026.

TOEFLMinimum 90 for Economics PhD (institutional code 5820 for GRE, B875 for TOEFL/IELTS).

IELTSMinimum average 7.0 for Economics PhD.

Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 ProficiencyAccepted

Duolingo English Test (DET)Accepted

InitialView or Vericant evaluationStrongly encouraged for all non-native English speakers.

Rankings

U.S. News & World Report#2 Best Value Public University (2026)

Money Magazine4.5★ Rating (2024)

Princeton Review#4 Best Public University for Financial Aid (2025)

Bloomberg Businessweek#1 Best Public Business School (2024–25 for Darden School)

Time Magazine#3 for Producing Future Leaders, among Public Schools (2024)

Princeton Review#4 Best Career Placement, among Public Schools (2023)

University scholarships

United World College Students Need-Based ScholarshipNeed-based scholarship support

Economics PhD Funding Package$30,600 per year ($24,480 academic year, $6,120 summer)

Computational Biology PhD Funding100% funding (tuition, stipend, research expenses)

Mathematics PhD Funding—

Statistics PhD Funding Package$36,000 annually

Sociology PhD Funding Package$28,800 (10-month stipend/salary) + $7,200 (summer stipend)

Accreditation

The University of Virginia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master's, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees.

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Statistics at the University of Virginia provides students with a comprehensive understanding of statistical theory and its practical applications. In today's data-driven world, a strong grasp of data analysis and statistical methods is crucial across numerous fields. This program equips graduates with the skills to design studies, manage and analyze data, adapt statistical methods based on theoretical knowledge, and effectively communicate findings to diverse audiences. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in various industries or for further study in graduate programs such as Master's or Ph.D. degrees in Statistics.

Bachelor's

Level

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What academic programs are available at the University of Virginia?

The University of Virginia offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across its 12 schools, including majors, minors, degrees, and certificates. The university is dedicated to advancing knowledge and preparing students for engaged leadership.

Does the University of Virginia offer financial aid or scholarships for international students?

The University of Virginia does not have dedicated scholarships or loans for international students, with the exception of those attending United World College schools. Prospective international students are advised to ensure they can finance their education.

What are the admission requirements for international students?

The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students, using the Common App for undergraduates. English language assessment is strongly encouraged for all applicants whose first language is not English.

Where is the University of Virginia located?

The University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville, Virginia, a city set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a blend of historic charm and natural beauty.

What makes the University of Virginia a good choice for students?

UVA is recognized for its academic excellence and value, with a commitment to accessibility and fostering a diverse, collaborative learning environment. It offers strong career prospects and opportunities for community engagement.

Last updated 30 June 2026