Selection Process
Ph.D., M.B.A, and J.D. candidates must first apply for admission to the University of Virginia. Jefferson Fellowship candidates are submitted to the Jefferson Scholars Foundation by the heads of each respective department or by a scholarship review committee at the University of Virginia. Based on their university application, students are then nominated to a national selection competition hosted by the Foundation.
College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
Selection Criteria: Competitive nominees will exhibit exceptional ability and potential in the following areas: scholarship and leadership. Candidates must do more than demonstrate interest in their field; they must also possess an eagerness and capacity to share their talents with a broad audience.
Terms of the Fellowship:
- A living stipend of $30,000-$35,000 renewable for five years
- Research funds up to $7,500
- Full tuition remittance
- Health insurance
Darden Graduate School of Business
Selection Criteria: Competitive nominees will exhibit exceptional ability and potential in the following areas: ethical leadership, diplomatic decisiveness, and a track record of putting ideas into action, together with a superb record of academic achievement.
Terms of the Fellowship:
- A living stipend of approximately $20,000 renewable for two years
- Research and travel funds up to $3,000
- Full tuition remittance
- Health insurance
School of Law
Selection Criteria: Competitive nominees will possess integrity, exceptional academic ability, and clear potential for leadership and public service. Eligibility for the Jefferson Law Fellowship is limited to Virginia residents or graduates of the University of Virginia.
Terms of the Fellowship:
- A living stipend of $20,000 renewable for three years
- Full tuition remittance
- Health insurance
Engineering School
Selection Criteria: The selection of Engineering and Applied Science Jefferson Fellows will be based on the candidates’ exceptional abilities and potential in the areas of scholarship, citizenship, and leadership. Competitive nominees will have the potential to become extraordinary leaders in cutting-edge technology development in the nation and around the world. They will possess superior intelligence and a history of academic excellence while also demonstrating creativity, integrity, and honor. Successful candidates will be exceptional scholars with a passion for innovation.
Terms of the Fellowship:
- A living stipend of $30,000 renewable for five years
- Research funds up to $2,500
- Full tuition remittance
- Health insurance
