The University of Virginia (UVA), located in Charlottesville, Virginia, is renowned for its competitive admissions process. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), UVA reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 18.5%, reflecting a highly selective process. This rate is influenced by a growing applicant pool, with tens of thousands of students vying for limited spots each year, as well as trends toward increased applications due to test-optional policies and UVA's strong academic reputation. Fortunately, UVA maintains transparency in its admissions data, often publishing detailed statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, accessible at UVA's Institutional Research page.
Over the past decade, UVA's acceptance rate has trended downward, reflecting increasing competitiveness as application numbers surge, particularly in early action rounds where students demonstrate strong interest. The university's early action program often yields higher acceptance rates, encouraging applicants to apply early for better odds. Additionally, international student admissions remain more selective due to space constraints and visa considerations. Compared to peer institutions like the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or the University of Michigan, UVA's selectivity is on par, positioning it as a top public university with rigorous admissions standards. As application volumes continue to rise, prospective students should anticipate even greater competition in future cycles.
