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The University of Virginia is one of the best universities in the world for students who want to pursue graduation and post-graduation courses in different fields. Studying abroad can be very expensive and challenging for students, and to help the students with their financial needs, this university offers different types of scholarships that are granted based on their financial needs and with a proper selection process. In this blog, we have detailed descriptions of the University of Virginia scholarships based on the candidate’s eligibility and the application process for these scholarships.
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University of Virginia Scholarships 2026: Quick Highlights
Following the discussion of the University of Virginia’s commitment to providing accessible education, it is important to highlight that most institutional and federal financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships, is portable for study abroad programs. Such portability allows students to continue receiving support while participating in Exchange, Outside, or Partner programs. To use their aid abroad, students must meet eligibility requirements, including submitting all necessary documentation, maintaining full-time enrollment, and meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress standards.
Graduate students must ensure that coursework abroad counts toward their degree, and summer students must satisfy minimum credit requirements. Depending on the program, additional forms such as the Education Abroad Expense Form and Consortium Agreement may be required. Financial aid awards are reviewed and adjusted according to program budgets, and disbursement occurs based on the term schedule, with options like Direct Deposit or Pre-Travel Advance available for early access to funds.
The following sections provide a detailed overview of the scholarship requirements, documentation, review process, and disbursement schedules, helping students understand the steps needed to secure financial aid for their studies.
| Categories of Requirements for Scholarships at Virginia University | Details of Scholarship Requirements |
| Financial Aid Overview | UVA provides institutional and federal financial aid in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Most awards are portable for study abroad programs. Students should consult the Planning and Budgeting guide and the Financial Aid Availability chart. |
| Requirements of Scholarships | – Submit all required documentation. – Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress standards. – Maintain full-time enrollment. – Graduate students: coursework abroad must count towards degree. – Summer students: full-time = 6 credits (undergrad), 3 credits (grad), can combine abroad and on-Grounds credits. – Transfer credit programs: credits must transfer back to UVA. |
| Required Documentation | – FAFSA on file with Student Financial Services (SFS). – Complete To -Do list and resolve any SIS holds. – Answer Yes to the Financial Aid for Education Abroad questionnaire in UVA Education Abroad Application (for Exchange, Outside, Partner programs). – Summer students: ensure FAFSA filing for appropriate academic year (Undergrad: preceding year; Grad: upcoming year). |
| Additional Documentation for Exchange/Outside Programs | – Education Abroad Expense Form (required for aid review). – Consortium Agreement (required for aid disbursement if not already on file). |
| Review Process | – SFS adjusts cost of attendance based on program budget. – Enrollment in non-credit placeholder course required for aid review. – Holds on SIS account must be resolved.- Aid review limited to one program at a time; changes in program/credits may adjust aid. |
| Award Notification | – Revised awards viewable in SIS. – Email notification sent once review is complete. – Students ideally receive award notification before program commitment deadline; commitment may be required even if award notification is pending. |
| Additional Funding Options | – Apply for education abroad scholarships. – Outside program scholarships from program providers. – Parent PLUS or private student loans. |
| Disbursement Schedule | – Semester/Year: funds disbursed no earlier than 10 days before program or UVA term start. – Summer: disbursement depends on program start date (see Summer Study Abroad Financial Aid). – January Term: one disbursement in early January (see January Term Financial Aid). – Direct Deposit recommended for receiving funds. |
| Special Considerations | – Outside programs: confirm if program requires advance documentation of aid. – Submit Consortium Agreement if required – Pre-Travel Advance available for early access to funds (flights, visas, immunisations, initial expenses). |
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University of Virginia Scholarships
Building on the overview of financial aid portability and eligibility, it is also important to consider scholarships and other funding sources that can supplement existing financial resources at the University of Virginia. Students should note that scholarship application deadlines do not always align with program application deadlines and are often due earlier, so early research and planning are essential.
While scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of studying abroad, they typically do not cover the full cost of participation. Therefore, students are encouraged to explore multiple funding opportunities, including leveraging existing financial aid.
Additionally, students who receive scholarships and plan to transfer credit from their time abroad must apply for approval through the Education Abroad Workshop. Those receiving scholarships but not earning credit, or not transferring credit, must still register their travel if they are using University funding, securing outside scholarships, or if their travel falls under the University Policy on Student International Travel.
1. Walker Global Experiences Scholarship (Summer 2026)
The Walker Global Experiences Scholarship at the University of Virginia is designed to empower undergraduates by providing financial support to participate in credit-bearing education abroad programs with an applied learning focus during Summer 2026. Established through a generous $2 million gift, this scholarship helps reduce financial barriers and encourages students to gain practical, global experiences. Priority is given to students who have not previously participated in a UVA education abroad program.
The specific financial value, eligibility requirements, and important details concerning the Walker Global Experiences Scholarship are summarised below:
| About Walker Global Experiences Scholarship | Details of Walker Global Experiences Scholarship |
| Scholarship Purpose | To provide financial support for UVA undergraduates enrolling in Summer 2026 credit-bearing education abroad programs with applied learning components. |
| Funding Source | Supported by a $2 million gift from the Walker initiative. |
| Award Amount | Up to USD 5,000 per student. The amount may be adjusted if total program costs are at or near USD 5,000 and the student is also receiving federal grant aid. |
| Eligible Expenses | Program tuition and fees, room and board, transportation, and incidental costs. |
| Application & Review | Student Financial Services (SFS) reviews scholarship eligibility based on financial aid status and completion of program application requirements. Holds on SIS accounts must be resolved before the application deadline. |
| Eligibility Criteria | – Undergraduate enrolled in Fall 2026. – Receiving need-based financial aid through AccessUVA (2025-2026). – Applying to and accepted in a Summer 2026 Walker-eligible program. – Maximum of one award per student, even if participating in multiple eligible programs. |
| Priority Considerations | Students who have not previously participated in a UVA education abroad program receive priority. Past scholarship recipients are ineligible. |
| Recipient Expectations | Submit a thoughtful reflection and a photo from the abroad experience upon program completion. |
2. ISO-Administered Scholarships
Following the Walker Global Experiences Scholarship, another important funding opportunity for UVA students comes from ISO-Administered Scholarships. The International Studies Office (ISO) manages over a dozen different education abroad awards, many of which can be applied for through the common app Education Abroad Scholarship Application. By submitting a single application, students are considered for all participating awards for which they are eligible, streamlining the process and increasing access to multiple funding opportunities.
These scholarships are primarily intended for students with demonstrated financial need, though additional factors such as first-generation status or lack of prior participation in UVA study abroad programs may influence award decisions. For the 2024–2025 academic year, the ISO distributed more than USD 350,000 in scholarships, with an average award of just under USD 2,000.
The specific financial value, eligibility requirements, and important details concerning ISO-Administered Scholarships are summarised below:
| About ISO-Administered Scholarships | Details of ISO-Administered Scholarships |
| Scholarship Purpose | Provide funding for UVA students participating in education abroad programs; administered by the International Studies Office (ISO). |
| Application Process | Apply via the common app Education Abroad Scholarship Application; one application considered for multiple participating awards. |
| Application Deadlines | – Summer, Fall, Academic Year: March 1 – Spring Semester: October 15 – Not available for January term |
| Eligibility | – Demonstrated financial need (required or prioritised) – Additional considerations: first -generation status, no prior UVA study abroad participation- Specific eligibility outlined for each individual award |
| Award Amount | Average award for 2024–2025: just under USD 2,000; total funding awarded over USD 350,000 |
| Priority Considerations | Preference given to students who have not previously participated in a UVA education abroad program. |
3. University and Department-Administered Scholarships
In addition to ISO-administered awards, many schools, departments, and units within the University of Virginia offer their own scholarships to support students pursuing education abroad. These scholarships are often tailored to specific academic interests, majors, or types of programs, allowing students to align funding opportunities with their educational and professional goals.
The specific financial value, eligibility requirements, and important details concerning University and Department-Administered Scholarships are summarised below:
| University and Department-Administered Scholarships | Purpose of the Scholarships | Amount of the Scholarship | Eligibility of University and Department-Administered Scholarships |
| Aigrain Global Scholarship | Support undergraduate experiences in developing countries/emerging markets | Up to USD 4,000 to at least two students | Undergraduate students interested in one of three types of global experiences |
| Batten Scholarship for Education Abroad Programs | Offset costs for education abroad | Amount varies | Priority for Batten students participating in Batten programs |
| CGHE University Scholar Award | Support global health research | Amount varies | Students engaging in multidisciplinary global health research with faculty |
| Deborah J. Kane Scholarship | Humanities or social sciences study abroad | Amount varies | Students travelling overseas; preference for untraveled students studying in Mexico, Central or South America; minimum GPA 3.400 |
| Francis Lazenby Travelling Fellowship | Travel support for Classics majors | USD 3,000–4,000 | Classics majors traveling to classical lands |
| Gilbert J. Sullivan Award | Summer internship support | Amount varies | Priority for students with demonstrated financial need |
| Hannah Graham Memorial Award | Year-long placement promoting health/development or reducing violence against women/girls | Amount varies | Placement at least 8 weeks; preferably French-speaking developing country |
| Harrison Undergraduate Research Award | Undergraduate research funding | Up to 40 awards/year | Outstanding undergraduate research projects |
| Kapadia Family Global Studies Travel Award | Support global research or internships | Up to USD 5,000 | One or two undergraduate students |
| Larry Simpson Internship Scholarship | Encourage summer internships | Amount varies | Rising 4th-year students in College of Arts & Sciences |
| Leslie Anne Baltz Fellowship | Support art students | Amount varies | Students in Department of Art |
| Monaghan Scholarship | Travel to East Asia for language study | Amount varies | Students studying East Asian language; thank-you letter required |
| Murphy Fund for International Study | Research or conference travel | Amount varies | Minimum GPA 3.400; outstanding academic achievement |
| Student Affairs Internship Grants | Support unpaid public service internships | Amount varies | Awarded in spring; Parents Fund & Sustainability Internship Grants |
| Prentiss Global Scholarship | Support study abroad | Amount varies | Students receiving need-based aid; outstanding academic achievement; study abroad in upcoming year only |
| Royster-Lawton Fellowship | Fund summer internships | Amount varies | Internship with organisation emphasising purpose; for-profit or non-profit |
| School of Architecture Study Abroad Financial Aid Award | Need-based aid for architecture students abroad | Amount varies | Students majoring in Architecture, Architectural History, Landscape Architecture, or Urban + Environmental Planning |
| School of Nursing International Scholarship | Defray international program costs | Amount varies | Students in School of Nursing; supported by Annual Fund and Endowment for International Initiatives |
4. Alumni Association Awards
The University of Virginia Alumni Association administers over 250 scholarships ranging from modest stipends to full tuition, room, and board. These awards operate independently of the University’s financial aid process and collectively provide over USD 3 million in aid to more than 450 students annually.
Applications must be submitted through AwardSpring by the listed deadlines and students must be enrolled full-time during the semester(s) in which the award is applied. Most scholarships are divided over two semesters, except for those explicitly stated otherwise.
The specific financial value, eligibility requirements, and important details concerning Alumni Association Awards are summarised below:
| Alumni Association Awards | Eligible Year(s) | Award Amount | Application Deadline | Term of the Scholarships |
| Ann O’Brien Leone Scholarship | 3rd, 4th | USD 1,500 | 9/17/2025 | Fall |
| Dr. Everett W. Butler OD Memorial Scholarship | 3rd, 4th | USD 4,500 | 9/17/2025 | Fall |
| Elizabeth Rose Coggins Scholarship | 3rd, 4th | USD 11,000 | 9/17/2025 | Fall |
| McIntire Leadership Scholarship | 2nd | USD 1,000 | 9/17/2025 | Fall |
| Ravenell Ricky Keller III Study Abroad Scholarship (Spring Term) | 2nd, 3rd | Up to USD 5,000 | 9/17/2025 | Spring |
| Candice M. Ruff Memorial Scholarship | 2nd, 3rd | USD 14,000 | Spring | Spring |
| Sky Alland Scholarship | 3rd | Full tuition and fees | Spring | Spring |
| Robert Adams Bradford Scholarship | 1st, 2nd, 3rd | USD 10,000 | Spring | Spring |
| Ravenell Ricky Keller III Study Abroad Scholarship (Summer Term) | 2nd, 3rd | Up to USD 5,000 | Summer | Summer |
| Richard H. Aulebach Scholarship | Incoming | USD 7,500 per year | Summer | Summer |
| Gray-Carrington Memorial Scholarship | 3rd | Tuition, fees, and rent | Fall | Fall |
| Ravenell Ricky Keller III Study Abroad Scholarship (Fall Term) | 2nd, 3rd | Up to USD 5,000 | Fall | Fall |
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5. Program-Administered Scholarships
In addition to the University of Virginia Alumni Association many outside program providers offer funding or financial support to students participating in their education abroad programs. This support can take various forms, including scholarships, public university grants, Pell grant matching, up-front flight funding, and other program-specific financial assistance.
The specific types of support, eligibility requirements, and award details are determined by each program provider. Students should consult the provider’s website or linked resources for complete information and application instructions.
The specific financial value, eligibility requirements, and important details concerning Program-Administered Scholarships are summarised below:
| List of Program-Administered Scholarships | Type of Program-Administered Scholarships |
| American University in Cairo | Scholarships, grants, and program-specific funding |
| Arcadia | Financial aid, scholarships, and matching funds |
| CET Academic Programs | Scholarships, Pell grant matching, and other assistance |
| CIEE | Program-based scholarships and grants |
| College Year in Athens (CYA) | Scholarships and financial awards for study abroad |
| DIS | Scholarships, flight funding, and program-specific support |
| FIE (Foundation for International Education) | Need-based and merit-based awards |
| IES Abroad | Scholarships, grants, and financial assistance |
| IFSA | Funding opportunities and program-based awards |
| Middlebury | Scholarships and tuition reduction options |
| Seamester | Need-based and merit scholarships |
| Semester at Sea | Scholarships and grants for global voyage programs |
| SFS (School for Field Studies) | Program-specific scholarships and financial support |
| SIT (School for International Training) including IHP programs | Scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities |
| Spanish Studies Abroad | Scholarships and grants for participating students |
| TEAN (The Education Abroad Network) | Program-specific scholarships and travel funding |
| University of St Andrews | Scholarships and funding support for study abroad |
| USAC | Scholarships, grants, and financial assistance for participating students |
6. National and International Scholarships
Beyond funding available through UVA or program providers, students can access a wide range of national and international scholarships to support their education abroad. These awards often target specific locations, fields of study, or student backgrounds, and some are tied to financial need or government service commitments. Early research and careful planning are essential, as eligibility requirements and deadlines vary by scholarship.
The specific financial value, eligibility requirements, and important details concerning National and International Scholarships are summarised below:
| List of National and International Scholarships | Purpose of Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility of the Scholarship | Deadline of the Scholarship |
| Boren Awards (Scholarship & Fellowship) | Study of less commonly taught languages in regions critical to US interests | Up to USD 24,000 (up to USD 30,000 with supplementary domestic study) | Commitment to work for federal government ≥1 year after graduation | January |
| The Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) | Access to dozens of different scholarships for study abroad programs | Varies by award | Apply once for multiple scholarships; Access Partner awards for partner programs | January & September |
| Gilman International Scholarship | Support for Pell Grant-eligible U.S. undergraduates studying abroad | Up to USD 5,000 + up to USD 3,000 for critical need languages | Must participate in credit-bearing programs abroad or virtual international programs | March & October |
| Gilman-McCain Scholarship | Support for child dependents of active duty service members | USD 5,000 | Requires Title IV federal financial aid; credit-bearing study or internship abroad | March |
| Killam Fellowships Program (Fulbright Canada) | Semester or academic year study in Canada for US citizens | USD 12,000 (USD 6,000 per semester) + health benefit plan + mobility grant up to USD 800 | US citizens; plan ahead for UVA and fellowship applications | Application opens September, due early January |
Other University of Virginia National & International Scholarships include the following:
- 1040 Abroad International Studies Scholarship
- American Australian Association Scholarships
- Bridging Scholarship: Study Abroad in Japan
- BUTEX Scholarship
- China-U.S. Scholars Program (CUSP)
- Critical Languages Scholarships
- DAAD
- Education New Zealand
- Freeman-ASIA
- Fulbright Student Award
- Go Overseas
- Project GO
- Rotary International
- The Going Abroad Scholarship
- United Negro College Fund Special Programs Corporation
7. January Term Funding
Following the discussion of National and International Scholarships, it is important to note that funding options for January Term study abroad are more limited compared to other terms. While fewer scholarships are available, students can still access need-based grants and federal loans to support participation. Careful planning is essential, as January Term funding operates differently from the fall, spring, or summer terms, and eligibility depends on completion of the FAFSA, enrollment in required courses, and maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
Students are encouraged to review the Student Financial Services (SFS) website for full guidance, and to coordinate with their advisors to ensure timely application and compliance with all requirements.
The specific eligibility requirements, types of funding, and important details concerning January Term financial aid are summarized below:
| January Term Funding of University of Virginia | Details of January Term Funding |
| Eligibility Requirements | – Completed 2025–2026 FAFSA on file – All items on SIS To-Do List completed – Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards – Enrolled in 3 credit hours for January Term and at least 3 credit hours for Spring 2026 |
| Cost of Attendance | Tuition, program fees, airfare, books, personal expenses, local transportation, and meals (program-specific budget available on UVA Study Abroad Budget Sheet) |
| Grants | – Need-based grant funding prioritised for students who have not previously participated in UVA study abroad – Funding will not exceed billable program costs for returning study abroad students – Grant availability is limited and not guaranteed |
| Direct Loan Eligibility | Remaining annual Direct Loan funds for 2025–2026 may be applied to January Term: Annual Direct Loan Limits: First Year: Dependent USD 5,500 / Independent USD 9,500Second Year: Dependent USD 6,500 / Independent USD 10,500 Third Year and above: Dependent USD 7,500 / Independent USD 12,500 Compare awarded loans in SIS to determine remaining eligibility. |
| Other Loan Options | – Direct Parent PLUS Loan (for dependent undergraduate students) – Private student loans (loan term: January 2 –11, 2026, to certify for January Term only) |
8. Graduate Student Funding
Building on the previous discussion of January Term and undergraduate funding, graduate students pursuing study or research abroad have access to a range of targeted funding opportunities. These resources can support tuition, research, travel, and living expenses while participating in programs abroad. Graduate students are encouraged to explore school-specific, department-specific, and national funding sources, as well as awards administered by UVA offices such as the ISO or the Office of Citizen Scholar Development.
The specific eligibility requirements, funding types, and notable awards for graduate students are summarised below:
| Graduate Student Funding at University of Virginia | Details of Graduate Student Funding |
| School/Department Funding | Contact your school or department for program-specific funding opportunities and internal scholarships. |
| Student Financial Services (SFS) | Consult SFS for guidance on eligible federal and institutional aid applicable to graduate study abroad. |
| Citizen Scholar Awards Database | Explore awards listed in the Office of Citizen Scholar Development’s database for graduate-specific opportunities. |
| University/Department & National/International Awards | Many awards detailed in prior sections, including University-administered, Alumni Association, and national/international scholarships, may also be available to graduate students. |
| ISO-Administered Awards (Region-Specific) | For travel to East or Southeast Asia:- Ellen Bayard Weedon Travel Grant- Founders Travel Grant- Nelson Scholarship Program |
| Location-Specific Fellowships | For research or study in Iceland: Leifur Eiríksson Foundation Fellowship |
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The University of Virginia offers a comprehensive range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities designed to support both undergraduate and graduate students in pursuing study and research abroad. From need-based grants and merit-based scholarships to ISO-administered, department-specific, and national or international awards, students have access to diverse funding sources to make their global experiences more affordable and accessible.
While each award has its own eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and funding limits, careful planning and early research can help students maximise their financial support. Additionally, options such as Direct Loans, Parent PLUS Loans, Pre-Travel Advances, and program-specific funding ensure that students can cover both expected and incidental expenses while abroad.
By exploring these opportunities, understanding eligibility criteria, and coordinating with offices such as Student Financial Services and the International Studies Office, UVA students can confidently plan and fund their education abroad experiences, gaining valuable academic, cultural, and professional growth.
FAQs
Ans. Yes, most institutional and federal financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships, is portable for study abroad programs. Students must meet eligibility requirements such as maintaining full-time enrollment, meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards, and submitting all required documentation. Graduate and summer students have additional credit and course requirements.
Ans. Yes, UVA offers scholarships like the Walker Global Experiences Scholarship for Summer 2026. For January Term, funding options are limited but may include need-based grants, Direct Loans, and some awards such as the Gilman Scholarship. Eligibility depends on enrollment, FAFSA completion, and SAP standards.
Ans. Graduate students can explore funding through their school or department, Student Financial Services, ISO-administered awards (like the Ellen Bayard Weedon Travel Grant), and national or international fellowships such as the Leifur Eiríksson Foundation Fellowship. Some undergraduate awards may also extend to graduate students depending on the program.
Ans. UVA students submit a single application through the Education Abroad Scholarship Application (common app). One application allows consideration for multiple ISO-administered awards for which the student is eligible. Deadlines are typically March 1 for Summer, Fall, and Academic Year programs, and October 15 for Spring Semester programs.
Ans. Yes, students can supplement their UVA aid with program-administered scholarships, national and international awards (like Boren, Gilman, or Fulbright programs), and private funding sources. Researching early and applying to multiple funding opportunities increases the chances of covering program costs and incidental expenses.
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