University of Virginia

Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University of Virginia (UVA) is a public research university in Charlottesville, Virginia. UVA is the flagship university of Virginia and home to the Academical Village, a historic green space surrounded by a series of brick buildings. This space, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents Jefferson’s “vision of a holistic learning environment carried beyond the classroom.” Its programs in business and nursing are particularly well known. Notable alumni include The New York Times Company president and CEO Meredith Kopit Levien, actress and screenwriter Tina Fey, and journalist Katie Couric.

Ranked 27 in the nation, UVA is a selective school. Its acceptance rate is 23%, and its graduation rate is 95%. In-state tuition is $18,960 and out-of-state tuition is $52,843. Over 18,000 undergraduates and more than 9,000 postgraduates are enrolled. UVA follows a semester-based academic program.

UVA is known for its commitment to excellent public education, all in the name of serving the public good. As part of its ethos, UVA accepts students based on academic merit and meets 100% of financial need while limiting student debt. Plus, 80% of students volunteer through a variety of community service programs, giving 100,000 hours of their time every year. UVA’s well respected research initiatives include the Data Science Institute, the Biocomplexity Institute and Initiative and more. When students aren’t engaged in research and discovery, they enjoy UVA’s picturesque setting. Situated near the Blue Ridge Mountains, UVA gives students easy access to trails and outdoor activities. Charlottesville itself provides historical landmarks, arts and entertainment, and numerous celebrated restaurants. On campus, over 800 student clubs and organizations are available, including 63 fraternities and sororities.