The Jefferson Scholarship 2027 is a prestigious fully funded undergraduate scholarship offered by the Jefferson Scholars Foundation at the University of Virginia (UVA) in the USA. The program is designed for outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional potential in leadership, scholarship, and engaged citizenship. Along with financial support, selected scholars receive opportunities for international travel, professional development, research, networking, and leadership activities. 

What Does the Jefferson Scholarship Cover?

The Jefferson Scholarship is intended to cover the full cost of attendance at the University of Virginia for four years. The scholarship includes tuition, room, board, books, and miscellaneous expenses for eight semesters of full-time enrollment. The Foundation also provides funding for supplemental enrichment experiences. 

According to the Jefferson Scholars Foundation, Virginia residents receive more than $42,000 per year, or more than $230,000 over four years, while non-Virginia residents can receive more than $83,000 per year, or upwards of $405,000 in total. 

Beyond financial support, scholars can benefit from international travel, career development and networking, leadership programs, alumni connections, research collaborations, speaker series, and other enrichment opportunities. 

Who Can Apply?

One important point is that students cannot directly apply for the Jefferson Scholarship. Eligible schools nominate students from their graduating class. Nominees are expected to demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership ability, and meaningful engagement with their communities. 

The Walentas Scholarship follows a similar process but is specifically intended for first-generation college-bound students. Students outside the United States can be eligible for the Jefferson Scholarship, although eligibility and nomination arrangements depend on the participating region and school. 

Selection Process

The Jefferson Scholarship selection process includes nomination, regional review, and final selection. Students nominated by their schools submit information about their academic achievements, activities, awards, and essays. Regional committees then review the applications and conduct interviews before finalists move to the final selection stage. 

For the current cycle, nomination materials are due by December 1, 2026, followed by regional reviews and interviews from December through January. Final virtual interviews are scheduled for late February 2027. 

Why Choose the Jefferson Scholarship?

The Jefferson Scholarship is more than a fully funded undergraduate scholarship in the USA. It provides talented students with the financial freedom and resources to pursue their academic interests while developing as future leaders and engaged citizens. Scholars also become part of a global network of students, alumni, fellows, professors, and volunteers connected to the Jefferson Scholars Foundation.

If you are a high-achieving high school student interested in studying at the University of Virginia, speak with your school counselor about nomination opportunities and begin preparing your academic record, leadership experiences, activities, and essays well in advance.