The University of Virginia (UVA) is not only one of the most historically significant and academically revered institutions in the United States—it is also home to one of the nation’s most prestigious merit-based scholarships: the Jefferson Scholars Program. Named after Thomas Jefferson, the founder of UVA, this program seeks to recognize and reward students who exemplify the highest standards of leadership, scholarship, and citizenship.
While the Jefferson Scholars Foundation primarily relies on a rigorous nomination and selection process based in the U.S., international students are not excluded from this opportunity. In fact, with increasing global engagement and a commitment to attracting talent from all corners of the world, UVA and the Foundation are making strides in ensuring that international students have a pathway into this life-changing program.
This comprehensive guide aims to help international applicants understand what the Jefferson Scholars Program is, what it offers, how the application process works, and what it takes to be competitive as a global candidate. If you’re an exceptional international student dreaming of studying in the U.S. with full financial support, keep reading—you might find this to be your path forward.
What Is the Jefferson Scholars Program?
The Jefferson Scholars Program is the premier merit-based scholarship offered at UVA. Funded by the Jefferson Scholars Foundation, it is awarded to a small number of incoming undergraduate students who have demonstrated excellence in three core areas:
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Scholarship – Academic performance, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for learning.
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Leadership – A track record of leading by example, inspiring others, and taking initiative.
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Citizenship – Commitment to community service, ethical behavior, and contributing positively to society.
The scholarship is not only about rewarding past achievements but also about investing in future leaders. Those selected as Jefferson Scholars receive more than just financial aid—they become part of a powerful network of scholars, alumni, and mentors, and they participate in exclusive enrichment programs designed to stretch their intellectual, professional, and personal capacities.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Jefferson Scholars Program is one of the most generous merit-based undergraduate scholarships in the U.S. It typically includes:
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Full tuition for four years at the University of Virginia
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Room and board
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Books and supplies
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Personal expenses
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A stipend for extracurricular and leadership development experiences
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Access to summer enrichment programs (such as internships, research, or study abroad)
When all these components are combined, the total value of the award can exceed $300,000 for out-of-state or international students. For an international applicant, this scholarship removes one of the largest barriers to a U.S. education—financial strain—and replaces it with unparalleled opportunity.
Who Is Eligible?
One of the most important things to understand is that you cannot apply to the Jefferson Scholars Program on your own. Instead, students must be nominated. Here’s how the eligibility and nomination process generally works:
Domestic vs. International Nomination
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Domestic (U.S.) applicants are nominated by their high schools. Each eligible high school may nominate one student per year.
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International applicants typically must come from schools that have been invited by the Jefferson Scholars Foundation to nominate candidates. In some cases, these are elite secondary schools around the world.
However, UVA understands the need to increase accessibility for high-achieving students across the globe. In certain cases, if your school is not part of the nominating network, your counselor may request an invitation to nominate a student by contacting the Foundation directly.
So, while the road to nomination is narrower for international students, it is not closed. The key is for the student and school counselor to be proactive.
Key Traits of a Jefferson Scholar Candidate
Because the competition is fierce and the criteria are broad, understanding what the Jefferson Scholars Foundation looks for in a nominee is vital.
1. Academic Excellence
Jefferson Scholars are typically among the top of their class. They have a consistent record of academic achievement across multiple disciplines. Many have excelled in advanced coursework such as A-Levels, IB, APs, or national exams.
But it’s not just about grades. The Foundation values students who love learning for its own sake—those who are intellectually curious and excited to explore beyond the classroom.
2. Leadership
This scholarship isn’t just for academic superstars. It’s for student leaders. Successful applicants often serve as heads of student organizations, lead community projects, or initiate change in their schools.
Leadership can look different in various cultures, but what’s important is showing how you’ve made a meaningful difference in your environment.
3. Citizenship and Character
Jefferson Scholars are expected to embody integrity, compassion, and a strong sense of community responsibility. Demonstrated commitment to volunteerism, social justice, or mentoring others goes a long way.
The Nomination and Selection Process: Step-by-Step for International Applicants
The selection process for Jefferson Scholars is intensive and spans several months. Here’s how international applicants can expect it to unfold.
Step 1: Securing Nomination from Your School
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Only students who are nominated by their schools can apply.
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Your counselor or school official must complete a nomination form if your school is invited.
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If your school is not in the nominating network, your counselor can request an invitation. Be sure to do this early—ideally several months before the UVA application deadline.
Step 2: Application to the Jefferson Scholars Foundation
Once nominated, you’ll be invited to complete a separate application to the Jefferson Scholars Program. This is not the same as your UVA application, although you must complete that as well.
The application will typically ask for:
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Academic transcripts
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Standardized test scores (if applicable)
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Essays
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Letters of recommendation
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Description of extracurricular activities
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Evidence of leadership and service
This is your chance to shine beyond your grades. Your essays should reflect your voice, your values, and your potential as a leader and global citizen.
Step 3: Semifinalist Selection
Based on your application materials, a group of semifinalists will be selected. These candidates may be interviewed via video or phone by Foundation staff or regional committee members.
Step 4: Finalist Weekend (Selection Weekend)
If you become a finalist, you’ll be invited—expenses paid—to participate in the Jefferson Scholars Selection Weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia. This is one of the most exciting parts of the process.
During this weekend, you will:
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Attend academic seminars
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Participate in leadership and ethics discussions
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Take part in interviews with selection committee members
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Engage with current Jefferson Scholars
It’s a chance for the Foundation to get to know you better—and for you to see what life at UVA could be like.
Step 5: Notification and Award
Final decisions are usually made in early spring. Students who are selected as Jefferson Scholars receive their award notification shortly after UVA’s regular admission decisions are released.
Additional Tips for International Students
Here are some tailored strategies to help international applicants stand out during the Jefferson Scholars selection process.
1. Start Early
Because nomination is required, you’ll need to coordinate with your school counselor well ahead of application deadlines. Don’t wait until the fall of your final school year to get started.
2. Tell Your Story Authentically
Your background as an international student is an asset. Use your essays to explain how your culture, experiences, and goals shape your aspirations. The Foundation values diverse perspectives.
3. Show Initiative
Have you led a campaign in your community? Started a tutoring program? Built something unique? These kinds of stories matter more than titles.
4. Maintain Excellence in English
Since the Selection Weekend and much of the evaluation process are conducted in English, demonstrating fluency is important—not just technically, but expressively. Your ability to articulate ideas, respond to questions, and connect with others will be key.
5. Stay Connected with UVA
While the Jefferson Scholars Program is separate from the main admissions office, they work closely. Make sure you complete your UVA application by the appropriate deadline. Strong communication with both the university and the Foundation can reflect your genuine interest.
Life as a Jefferson Scholar at UVA
Winning the Jefferson Scholarship is just the beginning. Scholars are part of a vibrant community on Grounds (UVA’s term for campus). They benefit from:
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Individual faculty mentors
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Access to exclusive seminars
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Opportunities to travel and research abroad
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A dedicated cohort of like-minded students
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Leadership development retreats
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Funding for summer internships
This level of support allows scholars to explore their full potential, whether they choose to major in biology, economics, international relations, or any other field.
A Launchpad for Global Leaders
Over the years, Jefferson Scholars have gone on to win Rhodes, Marshall, and Fulbright Scholarships. Others have started businesses, led NGOs, or joined global companies in leadership roles. The network you build as a Jefferson Scholar is vast, influential, and supportive.
For international students especially, this program is a gateway to more than just an education—it’s a lifelong platform for global impact.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the Jefferson Scholars Program as an international applicant may seem challenging, but it is far from impossible. With early planning, a compelling personal story, and strong academic and leadership credentials, you can position yourself as a competitive candidate.
If you believe in the power of education to transform lives, and if you’re ready to lead with purpose, the Jefferson Scholars Program at the University of Virginia just might be your next step.