How to Get Into UVA if You Live Out of State

For the fall 2022 enrollment cycle, the out of state acceptance rate at UVA (University of Virginia) was 32%. So, what does this mean for non-Virginians aspiring to get into this prestigious university?

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If you’re a non-Virginian, a 32% out of state acceptance rate means it could be difficult to get into UVA, but definitely not impossible. Understanding the university’s admission review process and what the admission panel is looking for will give you a better idea of your chances of getting accepted.

UVA Application Stats, Enrollment Fall 2023

  • Acceptance rate: 18.7%
  • In state acceptance rate: 68%
  • Out of state acceptance rate: 32%
  • Female students accepted: 56%
  • Male students accepted: 44%
  • Middle 50% range for SAT overall scores: 1,410-1,530
    • Evidence-based reading and writing: 710-760
    • Math: 710-780
  • Middle 50% range of ACT composite scores: 32 – 35

In State vs. Out Of State Enrollment UVA

Every academic year, the University of Virginia enrolls a balance of in-state and out-of-state students. Most years, the university seeks to maintain a 2/3rd majority of Virginians in its student population. That means, of the total students accepted in an admission cycle, approximately 70% are Virginians and 30% are non-Virginians.

For the non-Virginian applicant pool there are no quotas reserved for specific regions, towns, counties, or high schools. International students make up approximately 5% to 6% of the out-of-state student cohort.

Residency status is just one of many factors that University of Virginia takes into consideration when assessing application. Overall, this school has a holistic application review process that factors in several criteria such as a student’s academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and test scores.

Aspects that are not factors in the admissions decisions are race, ethnicity, gender, or family ties to UVA. The application form does not have check boxes for any of these criteria. Students who would like to share personal information about themselves, such as being a first-generation student, can include this on their Common Application.

University Of Virginia Financial Aid Package

The University of Virginia offers generous financial aid packages for in-state and out-of-state students. The school strives to meet 100% of a student’s financial need.

The financial aid package for each student is customized based on their family’s financial circumstances.

Generally, the financial aid packages are made up of three components:

  1. Scholarships or grants that are forms of gift aid and do not have to be paid back.
  2. Work-study employment that provides eligible students with part-time job opportunities with the university.
  3. Limited need-based loans that aim to keep the student’s debt to the minimum.

Students who apply for financial aid before the March 1st deadline may receive 100% of their demonstrated financial need through a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study, and need-based loans. The school strives to limit students’ debt by limiting the amount students can borrow by way of student loans. The limit on need-based loans for in-state students is an average of $4,500 per year. The limit for out-of-state students is an average of $7,000 per year.

To be considered for all forms of need-based aid, you must submit your financial aid application no later than March 1 if you’re applying regular decision. If you’re applying Early Decision, the school recommends submitting your application by December 1. And if you’re applying Early Action, your application should be submitted by November 15.

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Application Process & Deadlines

UVA accepts applications from first year students and transfer students through the Common Application. Students are required to submit their application component online. Teachers and counselors may choose to submit their documentation online or by mail.

Early Decision:

  • Application deadline: November 1
  • Notification: December 15

Early Action:

  • Application deadline: November 1
  • Notification: February 15

Regular Decision:

  • Application deadline: January 5
  • Notification: April 1

3 Tips For Improving Your Chances Of Acceptance At UVA

With an overall acceptance rate of 18.7%, UVA is a fairly selective school. While you may have a slight advantage if you are a resident of Virginia, it doesn’t acceptance. The school sets high applicant standards whether you’re a resident of the state or not.

If you’re an out of state student, don’t let the lower acceptance rate deter you from applying to UVA if this school is a good match for you. Increase your chances of getting accepted into the University of Virginia with these tips!:

  1. Get good grades. Ranked #1 among Public Universities in the US, UVA is renowned for its rigorous academic standards. Whether you’re a resident or nonresident of the state, you will have to get good grades in high school. The admissions panel will want to see can meet the challenges of the school’s academic environment.
  2. Participate in meaningful extracurricular activities. Your choice of extracurriculars carries significant weight in the admissions process. UVA looks for students committed to contributing to the community. Demonstrate your commitment and contribution to whichever of those activities you choose.
  3. Craft a stellar personal statement. Your personal statement is a key component of your application and can make all the difference in the admission decision. Use your personal statement to demonstrate your passion for your chosen field of study emphasize why UVA is your school of choice, and how you think you will be able to contribute to the school community.

Know Your Own Acceptance Odds

Don’t let the out of state acceptance rate at UVA deter you from applying to this reputed university. If this is your school of choice, it helps to start preparing early and stay focused on your goal of becoming a proud UVA student.

Find out your acceptance odds into the University of Virginia. Enter your information into College Raptor’s college match tool and you’ll see your admission chances and potential financial aid packages for UVA and for any other college in the country!

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