Overview
University of Virginia-Main Campus is a highly selective public four-year institution in Charlottesville, Virginia. The school accepts 18.7% of applicants and enrolls 17,315 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 18.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,470
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,400–1,540
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 17,315
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
UVA admissions officers care deeply about your connection to the university's Honor Code and self-governance traditions, so address how you'll contribute to a community where students take an oath not to lie, cheat, or steal. The school operates differently from most universities because students run the Honor System, and this student-led culture extends throughout campus life.
Your essays should reference specific UVA traditions like the Rotunda, Thomas Jefferson's educational philosophy, or the concept of being a "Wahoo." Don't write generically about wanting a "strong education" - instead, explain how Jefferson's vision of an "academical village" appeals to you or why you're drawn to the school's secret societies and traditions that date back centuries.
UVA has separate schools within the university, and you must apply directly to your intended school whether that's the College of Arts & Sciences, Engineering, McIntire School of Commerce, or others. Each school has different requirements and essay prompts, so tailor your application specifically to your chosen school's culture and programs.
Don't assume UVA is just another Southern state school. The university attracts students from across the country and internationally, and the academic environment rivals any Ivy League institution. Your essays shouldn't focus on wanting a "fun college experience" but rather on how you'll engage with UVA's particular blend of academic intensity and tradition.
The Early Decision option gives you a significant advantage, but only use it if UVA is truly your top choice. The binding nature means you're committed, and admissions officers can tell when applicants are using ED strategically versus genuinely wanting to attend.
Your recommendation letters should speak to your character and integrity, not just academic performance. UVA wants students who will uphold and strengthen their Honor Code culture, so letters that address your trustworthiness and leadership carry extra weight in the admissions process.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $22,881/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $20,986
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $58,014
- Students Receiving Aid
- 14%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 95.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $86,863/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 97.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Virginia require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
University of Virginia requires either SAT or ACT scores for first-year applicants. The school does not have a test-optional policy.
Does University of Virginia offer Early Decision or Early Action?
University of Virginia offers Early Decision, which is binding, and Early Action, which is non-binding. Early Decision and Early Action deadlines are both November 1.
What are the application deadlines for University of Virginia?
The Early Decision and Early Action deadline is November 1. The Regular Decision deadline is January 1.
Can you transfer to University of Virginia from another college?
University of Virginia accepts transfer students who have completed at least one full semester of college coursework. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and meet different requirements than first-year students.