University Achievement Awards

OVERVIEW

In December 2020, President Jim Ryan announced an additional investment of $30 million to support need- and merit-based scholarships at the University. In a symbol of its commitment to creating greater access, the board earmarked $10 million of this investment to provide special matching funds for two important University initiatives—the University Achievement Awards and the Blue Ridge Scholars Program. The matching program was a success and while all matching funds have been utilized, the University Achievement Awards remain a UVA priority.

University Achievement Awards were created during the administration of President John T. Casteen III to add to the diversity of the student body. Awards are given to students from Virginia who demonstrate outstanding leadership and character while overcoming personal hardship. All in-state applicants are automatically considered for this award.

The award covers all tuition and fees. The target has been 50 students per class, for a total of 200 students each year, including first-generation college students.

Your gift today will help continue to fund University Achievement Awards for outstanding Virginia students.

University Achievement Awards

Facts

Scholarship Facts & Figures

$261M

RAISED THROUGH GIFTS

67%

UVA GRADUATES HAVE $0 STUDENT DEBT

WITH YOUR HELP WE'VE RAISED

Darius Carter

(Engr ’17 ’21)

The University Achievement Award helped launch the educational career of Darius Carter, who completed his doctoral degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering and is now an assistant professor at North Carolina State. His undergraduate studies included participating in research with engineering professors Hilary Bart-Smith and Eric Loth, which led to his research position in UVA Engineering’s Smart Fluid Systems Lab. “UVA is really good at making sure that whatever you want to do, you have the opportunity to do here,” Carter said.

Supporting Students

Other Opportunities

Blue Ridge Scholars

Bringing the best students to Grounds. The Blue Ridge Scholarship fund was established in 2014 to benefit students with exceptional promise and significant financial need. UVA will double your generosity by matching your gift for a scholarship.

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Rainy Day Fund

The Rainy Day Fund helps students weather unexpected financial hardship. Gifts from parents and others provide one-time support to undergraduates who face sudden financial circumstances and keeps them on track with their educational pursuits.

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Bicentennial Scholars Fund

Outstanding students from all backgrounds have benefited from investments in the Bicentennial Scholars Fund. UVA doubled down on generous gifts for scholarships with significant matches.

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