UVA Acceptance Rate 2026: 16.81% - Admissions Stats

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UVA Acceptance Rate 2026

Quick Answer

The University of Virginia’s acceptance rate for the 2026 admission cycle stands at 16.81%, making it one of the most selective public universities in the United States. In-state tuition is $21,803 annually, while out-of-state tuition reaches $59,512. Graduates earn a median of $86,863 ten years after enrollment, reflecting strong career outcomes across disciplines.

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Acceptance Snapshot

The University of Virginia admitted approximately 16.81% of applicants for the 2026 academic year, maintaining its position as a highly competitive institution. With an enrollment of 17,597 students across all undergraduate and graduate programs, UVA continues to attract tens of thousands of applications from qualified candidates worldwide.

This highly selective acceptance rate reflects UVA’s reputation as a flagship public research university and its rigorous admissions standards. The institution evaluates applicants holistically, considering academic credentials, extracurricular involvement, essays, and personal qualities alongside standardized test scores.

Data Source: As of April 2026, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

SAT & ACT Scores

While specific SAT and ACT score ranges for the 2026 cycle were not available in the current data snapshot, prospective students should expect that admitted students typically demonstrate strong performance on standardized tests. Candidates are encouraged to consult UVA’s official admissions website for the most current middle 50% score ranges for SAT and ACT, as these metrics are updated annually and serve as important benchmarks for self-assessment.

For detailed information about test score expectations and test-optional policies, visit the University of Virginia’s Office of Admission directly.

Tuition & Costs

In-State Tuition and Fees

For Virginia residents, annual tuition and fees total $21,803, making UVA significantly more affordable than many peer institutions for in-state students.

Out-of-State Tuition and Fees

Out-of-state students pay $59,512 annually in tuition and fees, a substantial difference that reflects the university’s public mission to serve Virginia residents at a lower cost.

Total Cost of Attendance

When factoring in room, board, and other expenses, students should budget accordingly. The average net price across all income levels is $21,565, indicating that financial aid substantially reduces the sticker price for many students.

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Financial Aid Overview

UVA is committed to making education affordable through robust financial aid programs. The average net price of $21,565 demonstrates the university’s investment in making attendance feasible across socioeconomic backgrounds. This figure represents what students pay after accounting for grants and scholarships, and it applies across all income brackets on average.

Students should note that financial need does not affect admission decisions at UVA, and the university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Prospective students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA and contact UVA’s financial aid office for personalized aid packages and information about merit-based scholarships.

Graduation Rates

The University of Virginia maintains an exceptional 95.45% completion rate, significantly exceeding the national average for four-year institutions. This high graduation rate reflects strong student support systems, academic rigor matched with accessible resources, and a vibrant campus community that fosters persistence and success.

The high completion rate underscores UVA’s effectiveness in supporting students from enrollment through degree completion, a critical factor for students and families evaluating institutional quality and return on investment.

Post-Graduation Earnings

Graduates of the University of Virginia earn a median of $86,863 ten years after initial enrollment, positioning UVA among institutions with strong career outcomes. This figure reflects earnings across all majors and demonstrates the broad economic value of a UVA degree in the job market.

These earnings data, sourced from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, represent outcomes for students who attended UVA and subsequently entered the workforce. Actual earnings vary significantly by field of study, with engineering, business, and computer science graduates typically earning above the median, while graduates in other disciplines may earn less.

The University of Virginia offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering and Applied Science, McIntire School of Commerce, and specialized schools. While specific degree counts by major were not available in the current data snapshot, prospective students should explore UVA’s academic programs through the university’s official website to identify majors aligned with their interests and career goals.

Demographics

With 17,597 students enrolled, the University of Virginia represents a diverse student body. Detailed demographic breakdowns by race, ethnicity, and gender for the current cycle were not included in the available data snapshot. For comprehensive demographic information, including enrollment statistics by background and gender distribution, prospective students should consult UVA’s institutional research office or official enrollment reports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the University of Virginia’s acceptance rate for 2026?

The acceptance rate for the 2026 admission cycle is 16.81%, making UVA one of the most selective public universities in the nation. This highly competitive rate reflects the university’s academic standards and the substantial number of qualified applicants.

How much does it cost to attend UVA?

In-state tuition is $21,803 annually, while out-of-state tuition is $59,512 per year. However, the average net price students actually pay is $21,565 after accounting for financial aid, demonstrating significant institutional investment in affordability.

What is the graduation rate at UVA?

UVA’s completion rate is 95.45%, well above the national average. This high rate reflects the university’s strong academic support systems and student success initiatives.

How much do UVA graduates earn after college?

The median earnings for UVA graduates ten years after enrollment is $86,863. Earnings vary by major, with engineering and business graduates typically earning above this median.

Does UVA consider financial need in admissions?

Financial need does not affect admission decisions at UVA. The university is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, making it accessible regardless of family income.

How selective is UVA compared to other public universities?

With a 16.81% acceptance rate, UVA is among the most selective public universities in the United States, comparable to flagship institutions like UC Berkeley and Michigan. Admitted students typically demonstrate strong academic credentials and well-rounded profiles.

Should I submit SAT or ACT scores?

Prospective students should check UVA’s current testing policy on the Office of Admission website, as policies regarding test submission evolve. When submitting scores, ensure they reflect your strongest performance.

Data Sources

This article incorporates data from the following authoritative sources:

  • National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS): Admission rates, tuition, enrollment, and completion rates (data fetched April 11, 2026)
  • U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard: Post-graduation earnings and net price data

Readers should verify all current figures directly with the University of Virginia’s official website and admissions office, as institutional data is updated regularly and policies may change.