University of Virginia

Rank 24
Location Charlottesville
Established 1819
Famous For Economics, Psychology, Business

Overview

The University of Virginia (UVA), established in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, occupies a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Academical Village. UVA offers a diverse range of subjects through its eight undergraduate and three professional schools, including Law, Business, and Medicine. It boasts a "Public Ivy" status, providing an education akin to Ivy League institutions.

UVA's impactful scholars have contributed significantly to disciplines such as economics, law, literature, visual arts, and sciences. The university's selective admissions process is rooted in its student-run honor code and secret societies, reflecting its historic foundation. As part of the Association of American Universities for over a century, UVA is lauded for groundbreaking research and breakthroughs. The Cavaliers, UVA's athletic teams, dominate the ACC in NCAA Championships.

Noteworthy alumni include U.S. presidents, Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and entrepreneurs (see below). The university's vibrant community, picturesque setting, and distinguished academic offerings make UVA an attractive choice for international students seeking a world-class education in a historic and dynamic environment.

Services for International Students

The University of Virginia prioritizes the success and integration of international students through a range of dedicated support services. The International Studies Office (ISO) offers comprehensive assistance, including immigration guidance, cultural adjustment resources, and workshops. The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program aids language proficiency enhancement.

UVA boasts an array of student societies promoting cross-cultural interaction. The Global Student Council fosters a global community, while organizations like the Indian Student Association and Chinese Student and Scholars Association celebrate cultural diversity. The International Residential College offers an immersive living experience, and the Lorna Sundberg International Center provides a space for international students to connect.

The Global Greeters program pairs new students with experienced peers for guidance. UVA's commitment to holistic student development and inclusivity ensures that international students receive robust support and vibrant opportunities for cultural exchange and personal growth.

Ranking

  • 260th in QS World University Rankings 2024
  • 26th in U.S. News Best Value Schools Ranking 2024
  • 24th in U.S. News National Universities Ranking 2024
  • 166th in THE World University Rankings 2024
  • 55th in THE US College Rankings 2022
  • 176-200th THE World Reputation Rankings 2023

Accommodation

The University of Virginia offers a variety of student accommodation options to cater to different preferences and needs:

  • Alderman Road Hall-Style: Includes Balz-Dobie, Cauthen, Gibbons, Kellogg, Lile-Maupin, Shannon, Tuttle-Dunnington, Watson-Webb, and Woody. Approximately 1600 residents live in hallway-style double rooms with shared common areas. Each floor has two upperclass Resident Advisors.
  • Brown Residential College: Comprising 12 interconnected buildings, including Davis, Gildersleeve, Harrison, Holmes, Long, Mallet, McGuffey, Peters, Rogers, Smith, Tucker, and Venable. Each living unit consists of two single-occupancy bedrooms with an adjoining shared bathroom.
  • Gooch/Dillard Suite-Style: Nine buildings with newly renovated two-story, air-conditioned suites accommodating around 610 first-year students. Suites house six to ten students with furnished living areas and bath facilities.
  • International Residential College (IRC): A diverse community for over 300 undergraduate students. Munford, Gwathmey, Yen, and Hoxton Houses provide various room configurations and shared amenities.
  • McCormick Road Hall-Style: Historic houses like Bonnycastle, Dabney, Echols, Emmet, Hancock, Humphreys, Kent, Lefevre, Metcalf, and Page host around 1300 students. Double-bedroom accommodations feature newly renovated halls and common bathrooms.

Virginia student accommodations come equipped with essential furniture, wireless connectivity, air conditioning, and other amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enriching residential experience for University of Virginia students.

About Location

The University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville, a picturesque city nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its historical significance, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene.

The surrounding area offers plenty of activities for students. The vibrant downtown area, known as the Downtown Mall, features a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, and cultural venues. History enthusiasts can visit Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, or explore the historic sites around the city. The nearby Shenandoah National Park provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and nature exploration. Local wineries and breweries offer a taste of Virginia's wine and craft beer scene.

Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO) is the nearest commercial airport to UVA, located about 10 miles (16 km) from the campus. The drive from the airport to UVA takes approximately 20-25 minutes, making travel to and from the university quite convenient for students and visitors.

Alumni

  • Woodrow Wilson: The 28th President of the United States and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, known for his contributions to international diplomacy and his leadership during World War I.
  • Robert F. Kennedy: A prominent American politician and attorney, he served as U.S. Attorney General and as a U.S. Senator, advocating for civil rights and social justice.
  • Edgar Allan Poe: A renowned poet and author, known for his macabre and Gothic tales, he briefly attended UVA before pursuing his literary career.
  • Tina Fey: A celebrated comedian, actress, and writer, best known for her work on "Saturday Night Live" and the sitcom "30 Rock."
  • Georgia O'Keeffe: A pioneering American artist known for her distinct modernist paintings of enlarged flowers, New York skyscrapers, and New Mexico landscapes.
  • Wally Lamb: An accomplished author recognized for novels such as "She's Come Undone" and "I Know This Much Is True."
  • Kazuo Ishiguro: A Nobel Prize-winning British author renowned for his thought-provoking novels, including "Never Let Me Go" and "The Remains of the Day."

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