Selection Process

Awarded solely on the basis of merit, Jefferson Scholarships are granted to candidates who have undergone a rigorous selection process. Each year the Foundation identifies finalists through two avenues: 54 regional competitions around the country, 2 international competitions, and a separate competition for all students, including international applicants to U.Va., attending schools not eligible to compete in the regional competitions.

For the 2010-2011 competition, the Foundation received nearly 1,200 nominations from secondary schools participating in the regional competitions. Regional selection committees—comprised of alumni and friends of the University—review transcripts, extracurricular activities, essays, and teacher recommendations before conducting one or more rounds of interviews.

Of these regional nominees, 102 finalists were chosen to come to Charlottesville to compete at the Jefferson Scholars Selection Weekend in March. Additionally, with the cooperation of the University’s Office of Admission, all applicants to the University who attended secondary schools outside the geographical regions, as well as applicants to the Schools of Nursing, Architecture, and Engineering were screened as potential Jefferson Scholar candidates.

In March, all 102 finalists arrived on Grounds for the four-day Jefferson Scholars Selection Weekend. Activities included participation in seminars led by University professors, a written exercise, a math/logic exam, and personal interviews. At the competition’s conclusion, the Selection Committee selected a class of 27 new Jefferson Scholars.

No one may apply for a Jefferson Scholarship directly. For the regional competitions, a prospective Jefferson Scholar must be nominated by his/her school (eligible schools may nominate one or two students per year from the senior class). Over 3,700 secondary schools were eligible to participate in the regional competitions in 2010-2011. To be considered in the at-large and international screening processes, students must have applied to the University and returned their completed application to the Office of Admission by their deadline (January 1). We strongly recommend, however that they submit everything to U.Va. by December 1 in order to receive the fullest consideration. Additionally, at-large and international candidates must request that the Educational Testing Service forward their SAT results directly to the University.