The Jefferson Scholarship is one of the most prestigious merit awards in the country. It covers the entire cost of attendance for four years at UVA. For out-of-state and international students, that adds up to more than $365,000 in total value.
UVA ranks #26 among National Universities according to U.S. News & World Report 2026. It also holds the #4 spot among Top Public Schools in the United States.
But here’s the catch. You cannot apply for this scholarship on your own. Your high school must nominate you first. So let’s walk through everything you need to know.
What Is the Jefferson Scholarship?
The Jefferson Scholars Foundation runs this merit-based program independently from UVA’s admissions office. It seeks students with outstanding potential in three areas: leadership, scholarship, and citizenship.
Here’s what makes this award so powerful:
- It covers tuition, fees, room, board, books, supplies, and personal expenses for four years.
- It includes funding for enrichment experiences like international travel and career development.
- It is worth approximately $72,000 per year for out-of-state and international students.
- Recipients join an elite network of scholars, fellows, alumni, and volunteers.
In short, the Jefferson Scholarship is not just financial support. It is a transformational program that shapes future leaders.
Can International Students Win This Scholarship?
Yes, they absolutely can. The Jefferson Scholars Foundation confirms that scholars do not need to be U.S. citizens. The foundation has selected students from all over the globe.
However, you must also gain admission to UVA through the university’s separate admissions process. The scholarship selection and admissions decision are handled independently. Furthermore, the foundation does not consider financial need when choosing scholars. Selection is based purely on merit, so international students compete on a level playing field.
How Much Does UVA Cost Without the Scholarship?
To understand the true value of this scholarship, consider UVA’s costs for international students.
| Expense | Annual Estimate (2025–2026) |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | ~$62,923 |
| Room and Board | ~$15,000–$18,000 |
| Books and Supplies | ~$1,500 |
| Personal Expenses | ~$2,500–$3,500 |
| Total | ~$80,000–$85,000 |
Over four years, that’s roughly $320,000 to $340,000. The Jefferson Scholarship eliminates this entire burden, allowing you to focus fully on your studies.
What Benefits Come With the Jefferson Scholarship?
The Jefferson Scholarship goes far beyond covering tuition. Recipients gain access to a comprehensive enrichment program.
Institute for Leadership and Citizenship — All scholars attend a two-week seminar after their first year. This program includes workshops and discussions designed to build leadership skills.
International Travel Experience — Between their second and third year, scholars participate in a foreign study program through UVA’s International Studies Office. Each scholar can also pursue independent research abroad.
Semester at Oxford — Scholars can apply for a semester at St. Anne’s College at the University of Oxford for an immersive tutorial-style experience.
Internship and Career Funding — The foundation provides up to $4,000 for internships, conferences, and career exploration.
Exploratory Fund — This provides seed funding for scholars who want to launch commercial or philanthropic projects.
How Does the Nomination and Selection Process Work?
Unlike most scholarships, you cannot submit a direct application. Instead, your high school must nominate you. Each eligible school can typically nominate one student per year.
Here’s how the selection process works.
Step 1: Talk to Your School Counselor. Express your interest as early as possible, ideally by September of your senior year.
Step 2: Get Nominated. If selected, both you and your counselor will complete nomination materials. These include a scholastic report, extracurricular activities, teacher recommendations, and two essays.
Step 3: Submit Materials by the Deadline. International students fall under the International At-Large region with a deadline of November 15. Most other regions have a December 1 deadline.
Step 4: Regional Interviews. Selection committees review all materials and invite top candidates for interviews from mid-December through January.
Step 5: Final Selection. Finalists participate in a final virtual interview in late February. Recipients are notified shortly after.
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Nomination Portal Opens | August |
| International At-Large Deadline | November 15 |
| Other Regional Deadlines | December 1 |
| Regional Interviews | Mid-December – January |
| Final Virtual Interviews | Late February |
Also note that the Jefferson Scholars Foundation does not have access to your Common Application. You must complete all nomination materials separately.
Who Is Eligible?
To be considered for the Jefferson Scholarship as an international student, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a current high school senior who has not yet received a diploma.
- Your school must nominate you for the scholarship. You cannot self-nominate.
- You must not have been previously nominated for a Jefferson or Walentas Scholarship.
- You must apply to and gain admission to UVA through the regular admissions process.
- You must demonstrate exceptional potential in leadership, scholarship, and citizenship.
Importantly, SAT, ACT, AP, and IB scores are not considered in the current selection process. UVA also remains test-optional for admissions. As a result, your essays, activities, and interviews carry the greatest weight.
Tips to Strengthen Your Chances
Start the conversation early. Talk to your school counselor well before the fall of your senior year. Since only one student per school gets nominated, early communication is critical.
Show leadership with impact. The foundation values students who make a meaningful difference. Highlight clubs you led, projects you started, or community initiatives you drove.
Be authentic in your essays. Share genuine stories that reveal your character, values, and vision for the future.
Prepare for interviews thoughtfully. Review your nomination materials carefully. The committee wants to know you as a leader, scholar, and engaged citizen.
Apply to UVA separately. The scholarship process is independent from admissions. Submit your UVA application through the Common Application to remain eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the Jefferson Scholarship without being nominated?
No, you cannot. Your high school must nominate you for this award. Therefore, talk to your counselor about your interest as early as possible.
How many students are selected each year?
The foundation typically selects around 35 to 40 Jefferson Scholars each year from over 2,000 nominees. That makes the acceptance rate less than 2%.
Does the Jefferson Scholarship guarantee admission to UVA?
Not automatically. The scholarship and admissions processes are separate. However, if selected as a Jefferson Scholar, admission is expected.
Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes, it covers all four years of undergraduate study at UVA. Scholars must maintain academic standing and participate in foundation activities.
Does the Walentas Scholarship also accept international students?
Yes. The Walentas Scholarship is a similar full-ride award for first-generation college students. International students who meet the first-generation requirement may also be eligible.
Final Thoughts
The Jefferson Scholarship is one of the most valuable awards available to international undergraduates in the United States. It eliminates the full cost of a UVA education while providing life-changing enrichment opportunities. From international travel to Oxford semesters and career funding, this scholarship invests deeply in its recipients.
If you have the academic talent, leadership experience, and drive to make a difference, start by talking to your school counsellor today.
Ready to learn more? Visit the Jefferson Scholars Foundation website and explore the full details.