The Jefferson Scholarship 2027 at the University of Virginia is a prestigious fully funded undergraduate scholarship for high-achieving international and domestic students. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, books, and provides opportunities for research, leadership development, and internships. Valued at up to $405,000 over four years, it seeks students with exceptional academic performance, leadership, and community engagement.
The Jefferson Scholars Foundation, based at the University of Virginia, administers this award. UVA, founded by Thomas Jefferson, is a top public research university in the USA, known for its academic rigor and strong alumni network. The foundation selects scholars through a nomination-based process, evaluating candidates on scholarship, leadership, and citizenship.
Jefferson Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition and university fees for up to eight semesters
- On-campus accommodation support
- Meals and living expenses
- Books and academic supplies
- Miscellaneous personal expenses
- International travel and global educational experiences
- Undergraduate research support
- Leadership development program
- Internships and professional development activities
- Career and alumni networking opportunities
Jefferson Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Completing final year of secondary school
- Outstanding academic performance
- Meaningful leadership experience and community involvement
- Must be nominated by an eligible secondary school (cannot self-nominate)
- Must apply and gain admission to the University of Virginia separately
- No minimum GPA requirement, but strong academics expected
- SAT/ACT scores not considered for scholarship (check UVA admission requirements)
- No IELTS requirement for scholarship, but international students must meet UVA’s English language requirements
How to Apply for Jefferson Scholarship
- Students cannot apply directly; must be nominated by their secondary school.
- Contact your school counsellor, principal, or guidance office to confirm participation.
- Ask to be considered for the school’s Jefferson Scholarship nomination (schools may have internal deadlines).
- Prepare your profile: academics, leadership, extracurriculars, community service, awards.
- If nominated, complete the required scholarship materials provided by the Foundation.
- Separately apply for undergraduate admission to the University of Virginia (nomination ≠ admission).
- Submit all scholarship materials by the official deadline: December 1, 2026.
- If selected, participate in regional and final interviews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Jefferson Scholarship 2027 at the University of Virginia. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Jefferson Scholarship?
The Jefferson Scholarship is a fully funded undergraduate award at the University of Virginia for academically outstanding students with strong leadership and community engagement. It covers full tuition, fees, accommodation, meals, books, and provides up to $405,000 over four years for non-Virginia and international students.
Who is eligible for the Jefferson Scholarship?
Both international and domestic students in their final year of secondary school who demonstrate exceptional academics, leadership, and citizenship are eligible. Applicants must be nominated by an eligible secondary school and also apply separately for admission to UVA. There is no minimum GPA or standardized test requirement for the scholarship itself.
How much is the Jefferson Scholarship worth?
The scholarship provides a comprehensive financial package valued at approximately $405,000 over four years for non-Virginia and international students. It covers tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, supplies, personal expenses, and also funds research, study abroad, internships, and leadership development.
Can international students apply for the Jefferson Scholarship?
Yes, international students are eligible. They must be nominated by their school, complete the scholarship application, and separately gain admission to the University of Virginia. There is no citizenship requirement for the scholarship.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for both schools to nominate and students to submit all scholarship materials is December 1, 2026. Students should also meet UVA’s admission deadlines. Because schools may set earlier internal nomination deadlines, applicants should contact their school well in advance.
How do I apply for the Jefferson Scholarship?
You cannot apply directly. First, ask your secondary school if it participates. The school nominates one student per year. The nominee then submits application materials through the Jefferson Scholars Foundation’s system. Separately, you must apply to UVA for undergraduate admission.
Is the SAT or ACT required for the Jefferson Scholarship?
No, SAT and ACT scores are not considered in the Jefferson Scholarship selection process. However, UVA’s undergraduate admission may have its own testing policy, so applicants should check the university’s current requirements for their chosen admission cycle.
What does the selection process focus on?
The selection emphasizes three areas: scholarship (intellectual ability and academic achievement), leadership (initiating and leading projects that create impact), and engaged citizenship (meaningful contribution to community and public good). High grades alone are insufficient; demonstrated impact matters.
Is there an IELTS requirement for international students?
The Jefferson Scholarship does not set a specific IELTS score. However, international applicants must meet the University of Virginia’s English language proficiency requirements, which may include TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or Cambridge English scores. Check UVA’s admissions page for details.
How competitive is the Jefferson Scholarship?
Extremely competitive. Thousands of schools nominate students, and only a small number are selected. Successful candidates combine top academic performance with exceptional leadership, sustained community involvement, and a clear record of measurable social impact.
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