How to Get into the University of Virginia

The University of Virginia (UVA) is a public research university in Charlottesville, Virginia, United States. It was founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson. The university is set within the Academical Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What is the University of Virginia? 

As its first two rectors, Presidents Jefferson and Madison played key roles in UVA’s foundation, with Jefferson designing both the original courses of study and the university’s architecture. Located within its historic 1,135 acre central campus, the university is composed of eight undergraduate and three professional schools: the School of Law, the Darden School of Business, and the School of Medicine.   

Testing Scores for Admission

According to the college, the average SAT score ranges from 1400 to 1540, while the average ACT score is between 32 and 35. The average unweighted GPA of acceptance is around 3.9 and 86% of students placed in the top decile of their graduating class. As such, GPA is just as important as the main two standardized tests. 

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Acceptance & Graduation Rate

To get into UVA, a student’s standardized test scores and high school GPA have to be great. This is reflected in the acceptance rate as it is 21%. However, this school has enrolled some bright students as the graduation rate is 95%.

How Are Applicants Rated? 

UVA rates six factors as “very important” to the admissions process: rigor of high school course load, class rank, GPA, recommendation letters, character/personal qualities, and state residency. Items that are “important” as part of the admissions process are: application essays, extracurricular activities, and talent/ability.

Tips to Get Into the University of Virginia 

  • Most “Public Ivies”, including accept the Common App so students should use that to their advantage by filling out the activities section.
  • UVA does not consider “demonstrated interest” so you will not be judged on whether or not you made a campus visit, contacted an admissions officer, etc.
  • Geographically, the greatest percentage of Class of 2026 members are Virginia residents. The acceptance rate is 15% higher if one is an in-state resident.  
  • If you have a parent (or two) that attended the university, you will get special consideration in the admissions process.

How Does UVA Compare to Other Top Universities? 

UVA’s yield rate—the percentage of accepted students who elect to enroll, divided by the total number of students who are admitted is 42%. This figure is just a shade below other powerhouse state universities like the University of Michigan, UNC-Chapel Hill, and UCLA.

Are you or will you be attending the University of Virginia?

Stock up on gear to show your pride for the Cavaliers. Grab this sweatshirt, decals for your laptop, or this University pennant.

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