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UVA Jefferson Scholarship

The Jefferson Scholarship at UVA is a full merit award for students nominated through a region-based process. It is one of the classic “public ivy full ride” searches every admissions season.

University of Virginia · United States (Charlottesville, VA) · Undergraduate · Full-ride merit scholarship

What it is

Jefferson Scholarship is a highly selective undergraduate scholarship tied to University of Virginia. It is a true merit full-ride style award for a small cohort — not the same as general need-based aid.

Who it is for

Candidates nominated by their secondary school (or eligible nominating entity) in a Jefferson region, who also seek admission to UVA. Merit, leadership, and citizenship are evaluated.

What funding usually covers

Tuition and fees, books, supplies, room and board, and enrichment funding as published by the Jefferson Scholars Foundation for the cohort.

How to apply

  • Confirm your school can nominate in your Jefferson region.
  • Work with your counsellor on the nomination package early.
  • Apply to UVA for undergraduate admission.
  • Complete interviews and any foundation requests if selected as a finalist.

Documents people commonly need

  • Nomination materials
  • Essays / activities
  • Recommendations
  • UVA application
  • Transcript

Typical timeline

Nomination deadlines are often in late autumn / early winter depending on region. Finalist events follow. Check jeffersonscholars.org.

Practical tips

  • No nomination, no scholarship — institutional process matters as much as your résumé.
  • UVA admission is still required.
  • Regional competition quality is high; generic leadership lists fail.

Common questions

Can I self-nominate?

Jefferson Scholarships are nomination-based through participating schools/regions. Follow the foundation’s rules for your area.

Is Jefferson the only UVA aid?

No. UVA also administers need-based aid. Jefferson is a separate merit programme.

Official source

Aid rules and deadlines change. Read the current information on the school’s official page before you apply.

Open official aid page

Last reviewed for this guide: 2026-08-09.

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