Jefferson Scholarship (University of Virginia)

About this scholarship

The Jefferson Scholarship, awarded by the Jefferson Scholars Foundation at the University of Virginia, is among the most prestigious and generous undergraduate merit awards in the country. It is intended to cover the entire cost of attendance for four years at UVA, plus funding for supplemental enrichment experiences: Virginians receive over $42,000 per year (upwards of $230,000 total) and non-Virginians over $83,000 per year (upwards of $405,000 total). The companion Walentas Scholarship carries the same award but is specifically for first-generation college-bound students. Selection centres on three ideals — leadership, scholarship, and citizenship — and seeks nominees with exceptional leadership talents, a strong sense of community, and uncommon academic ability. Crucially, no one may apply directly: eligible schools nominate a senior who best exemplifies these qualities, so interested students should contact their school counselor to express interest in being nominated. Nominations are completed jointly by school officials and the student and include a scholastic report, a record of extracurricular activities, and two essays. All regions share a nomination deadline of December 1, and nominees must also apply to UVA and ultimately gain admission to receive the scholarship.

Eligibility

• Be nominated by an eligible school (you cannot apply directly)
• Exemplify leadership, scholarship, and citizenship as a high-school senior
• Apply to the University of Virginia and gain admission
• Complete the nomination materials (scholastic report, activities, two essays)
• Meet the 1 December nomination deadline