How to Get Into UVA: Acceptance Rate, Decision Dates, Deadlines & More
The University of Virginia (UVA) is a prestigious public university with a rich history and a buzzing academic scene. UVA values both academic excellence and personal growth, seeking students who are both intellectually curious and driven to make a positive impact. Its stellar ranking of 24th in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 edition is a testament to its unwavering commitment to providing top-notch education and fostering a vibrant academic environment.
If you’re dreaming of joining the UVA community, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the admissions process and boost your chances of acceptance. If you have questions, book a free consultation with Yocket.
What Is the Acceptance Rate at UVA?
According to the latest data published by the College Board, acceptance rate at UVA is 20.7% for every 100 applicants, 21 are admitted. This means that for every 100 applicants, 19 were admitted. The acceptance rate has been steadily declining over the past few years, from 25% in 2019 to 19% in 2023. This trend is likely due to the increasing popularity of UVA and the increasing number of applications the university receives each year.
| UVA does not have GPA or testing cut-offs or targets. |
The acceptance rate at UVA is quite competitive. However, it is important to note that the acceptance rate is not the only factor that is considered in the admissions process. UVA also considers factors such as your GPA, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal statement.
UVA Admission: Decision Dates and Application Deadlines
The University of Virginia welcomes applications from first-year students through the Common Application. You can apply online at your own pace; your counselors and teachers can submit their pieces electronically or by mail.
First-year students have three options for submitting their applications: Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision. The admission rates fluctuate every year, but there’s no benefit to applying under one plan over the other. You’ll receive the same financial aid package regardless of your chosen plan.
Early Decision
If you know for sure that UVA is your top choice and you’re confident in your application without your senior grades, then the Early Decision plan is for you. UVA early decision will be released by December 15th and if you’re accepted, you’ll have to withdraw your applications from other schools and commit to attending UVA. By the way, about 10% of all offers of admission are made during Early Decision.
Early Action
If you’re ready to apply to college and you’re confident in your application, then Early Action might be the perfect option for you. It’s a stress-free way to get an early decision on your admission without being tied down to a specific school. UVA early action decision will be released by February 15th, if you’ve been accepted, denied, or waitlisted. And if you do get accepted, you’ll have until May 1st to decide if you want to join their incoming class.
Regular Decision
The Regular Decision plan is a flexible option for you if you want more time to work on your applications and have your first-semester senior year grades considered. Regular decisions will be sent out by April 1st, and admitted students will have until May 1st to accept their offer and secure their spot in the incoming class.
Take a look at this table for a quick overview of the three admission plans.
| Application Type | UVA Application Deadline | Teacher/Counselor Deadline | Notification |
| Early Decision | November 1 | November 8 | By December 15 |
| Early Action | November 1 | November 8 | By February 15 |
| Regular Decision | January 5 | January 10 | By April 1 |
| Spring Transfer | October 1 | n/a | By November 30 |
| Fall Transfer | March 1 | n/a | By May 1 |
Standardized Tests for UVA Admission
For Fall 2024 and Fall 2025 admissions, it’s up to you whether or not to share your standardized test scores. UVA will carefully review your application regardless of your decision, and you won’t be penalized for your choice.
Submitting Standardized Scores
If you want your SAT, ACT, AP, or IB scores to be considered in your application, simply submit them and self-report them on the application form. You can also submit updated scores through your portal after the deadline. If you’re admitted and decide to attend UVA, you’ll need to request official score reports for verification. The ACT Writing sections are not considered in UVA’s review.
What is the SAT & ACT Score requirements for the UVA?
Most students who got into UVA had an SAT score between 1400 and 1540 or an ACT score between 32 and 34.
Super-Scoring
For applicants who submit test scores, UVA will consider your best combination of section scores without any recalculations. Just report your scores as they appear on your official score report (section scores for the SAT or composite and subscores for the ACT), and their system will take care of the rest.
School Reports and LORs for UVA
UVA needs a report from your high school and an evaluation from one of your academic teachers to review your application.
Your counselor can fill out the high school report online. They can also provide a recommendation letter along with the report. Your academic teacher’s recommendation should also be submitted online. In addition to the high school report, your counselor should also submit your school profile and transcript(s) online.
If your counselor can’t write you a recommendation letter, please ask them to complete and submit the high school report online. If your counselor can’t provide a written recommendation, you may submit one from another school administrator or academic teacher if possible. Just know that in this situation, a counselor recommendation is not required for your application to be reviewed.
If your school can’t submit these documents electronically, they can mail them.
From the Desk of Yocket
Getting into the University of Virginia (UVA) is a pretty big deal since it’s a super-selective school with a rich history and a stellar reputation. While the admissions process is tough, it’s not impossible to crack.
First, focus on your grades. Maintain a high GPA and challenge yourself with rigorous coursework. Next, show UVA that you’re not just a bookworm. Get involved in extracurriculars that align with your passions and demonstrate your ability to collaborate and manage your time.
To impress the admissions committee, show them that you’re genuinely interested in UVA. Attend events, connect with current students, and write a personal statement that showcases your unique personality.
With hard work and a compelling application, you can make UVA your new academic home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What GPA do I need to get into UVA?
There is no specified or minimum GPA requirement for UVA.
2. What SAT or ACT scores do I need to get into UVA?
UVA is test-optional for the Fall 2024 and Fall 2025 cycles. This means that you are not required to submit your SAT or ACT scores. However, if you choose to submit your scores, they will be considered in the admissions process. The average SAT score of admitted students is between 1400 and 1540, and the average ACT score is between 32 and 34.
3. What extracurricular activities should I focus on?
UVA is looking for students who are well-rounded and passionate about their extracurricular activities. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, but it is important to choose activities that you are genuinely interested in and that you can commit to for a significant period of time.
4. How hard is it to get into UVA?
The acceptance rate at the University of Virginia (UVA) for the Fall 2023 admissions cycle was 19%. This means that for every 100 applicants, only 19 were admitted making it somewhat hard to get into. The acceptance rate has been steadily declining over the past few years, from 25% in 2019 to 19% in 2023.
5. Does UVA Require SAT in 2024?
Taking either the SAT or the ACT is not required for getting into UVA.
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