University of Virginia GPA Requirements: What You Need to Get Into UVA
The University of Virginia is one of the most prestigious public universities in the United States, founded by Thomas Jefferson and known for its rigorous academics, honor code, and beautiful campus. UVA consistently ranks among the top public universities and attracts students from around the world seeking academic excellence.
Quick Answer: University of Virginia typically admits students with an unweighted GPA of 3.9+ and a weighted GPA of 4.3+. The middle 50% have GPAs between 3.87-4.0 (unweighted).
University of Virginia GPA Requirements
Official GPA Statistics
Average Unweighted GPA
3.96
4.0 scale
Average Weighted GPA
4.35
Weighted scale
Middle 50% Range
3.87 - 4.0
Unweighted GPA
Acceptance Rate
19.3%
Highly selective
GPA Requirements by School
| School/Program | Average GPA | Minimum Competitive |
|---|---|---|
| School of Engineering | 4.42 | 4.1 |
| McIntire School of Commerce | 4.40 | 4.0 |
| College of Arts & Sciences | 4.32 | 3.9 |
| School of Architecture | 4.28 | 3.8 |
| School of Nursing | 4.25 | 3.7 |
| Batten School of Leadership | 4.38 | 3.95 |
Virginia High School Requirements
Recommended High School Curriculum:
- English: 4 units (composition & literature focus)
- Mathematics: 4 units (through Calculus recommended)
- Science: 4 units (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Social Studies: 4 units (including history)
- Foreign Language: 5+ units (same language)
- Fine Arts: 1+ units
- Advanced Placement: 8+ AP courses recommended
University of Virginia Admission Statistics
Fall 2024 Admission Data
- Applications Received: 56,457
- Students Admitted: 10,896
- Acceptance Rate: 19.3%
- Enrolled Students: 3,947
- Yield Rate: 36.2%
Academic Profile
- Average SAT: 1520
- Average ACT: 34
- Top 10% of Class: 92%
- Top 25% of Class: 98%
- Virginia Residents: 68%
Admission Rates by Residency
UVA's AccessUVA Program
Need-Blind Admission: UVA practices need-blind admission for all students, including international applicants, ensuring financial need doesn't impact admission decisions.
No-Loan Policy: AccessUVA meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans for families earning less than $80,000 annually.
GPA Analysis for University of Virginia
What GPA Do You Need?
Virginia Residents: Weighted GPA of 4.1+ competitive, 4.3+ target
Out-of-State: Weighted GPA of 4.3+ competitive, 4.5+ target
Engineering/Commerce: Weighted GPA of 4.4+ highly recommended
International Students: Equivalent of 4.4+ GPA with rigorous curriculum
GPA Distribution of Admitted Students
UVA Excellence & Traditions
Top Programs:
- Business (McIntire School of Commerce)
- Engineering & Applied Science
- Liberal Arts & Sciences
- Public Policy (Batten School)
- Architecture
- Medicine & Nursing
Research Opportunities:
- Undergraduate Research Network
- Jefferson Scholars Foundation
- Miller Center of Public Affairs
- Darden School of Business
- Biocomplexity Institute
- Weldon Cooper Center
Application Strategies for University of Virginia
Honors Programs and Special Opportunities
Competitive Programs at UVA:
- Jefferson Scholars: Full-ride merit scholarship program
- Echols Scholars: Academic distinction program with special privileges
- Rodman Scholars: Engineering honors program
- College Science Scholars: Research-focused program
- Global Studies: International perspectives program
- Undergraduate Research: Faculty-mentored research opportunities
Personal Statement Strategy
UVA Values (Honor, Leadership, Service):
University of Virginia seeks students who embody:
- Honor: Personal integrity and ethical character
- Leadership: Initiative and positive impact on community
- Service: Commitment to helping others and society
- Intellectual Curiosity: Love of learning and inquiry
- Diversity: Appreciation for different perspectives
- Excellence: Pursuit of high standards
If Your GPA is Below 4.0
- Outstanding Test Scores: SAT 1550+ or ACT 35+ to compensate
- Virginia Residency: Significant advantage for admission
- Exceptional Essays: Compelling personal story and "Why UVA"
- Unique Background: Distinctive experiences or perspectives
- Leadership Impact: Significant contributions to school/community
- Artistic Talent: Excellence in arts with portfolio submission
UVA-Specific Application Tips
- Honor Code: Demonstrate understanding and commitment to honor
- "Why UVA" Essay: Show specific knowledge of programs and culture
- Cavalier Identity: Connect with UVA's history and values
- Community Service: Long-term commitment to service
- Intellectual Engagement: Show passion for learning and inquiry
- Character References: Strong recommendations highlighting integrity
ACC Conference Comparison
| University | Average GPA | Acceptance Rate | Average SAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duke University | 4.50 | 5.8% | 1580 |
| Wake Forest University | 4.42 | 21.4% | 1540 |
| University of Virginia | 4.35 | 19.3% | 1520 |
| University of North Carolina | 4.28 | 16.8% | 1500 |
| Georgia Tech | 4.25 | 17.5% | 1510 |
GPA Calculator Tools
Use these calculators to calculate your GPA and assess your UVA chances:
Conclusion
The University of Virginia represents the pinnacle of public university excellence, combining Jeffersonian ideals with modern academic rigor. With a 19% acceptance rate and exceptional academic standards, UVA seeks students who embody honor, leadership, and service while demonstrating outstanding academic achievement.
Success at UVA requires exceptional grades (GPA 4.3+), strong test scores, and alignment with the university's core values. Focus on rigorous coursework, meaningful leadership roles, and crafting essays that showcase your character and commitment to the Cavalier principles of honor, leadership, and service to others.