The University of Virginia is a prestigious public research university founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, located in Charlottesville. Its McIntire School of Commerce, strong liberal arts tradition, and historic honor system distinguish it as one of the finest public universities in the country.
Mascot: Cavalier
Notable Alumni
Tina Fey (comedian and actress)•Katie Couric (journalist and news anchor)•Edgar Allan Poe (iconic poet and author)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
UVA has a significant Greek component with about a quarter of undergrads participating, and the Rugby Road fraternity houses are a visible part of weekend life. But tailgates, The Corner, and Charlottesville's broader social offerings mean Greek life is one pillar among several. The Southern 'work hard, play hard' culture is pervasive, and the Lawn traditions create a sense of history and belonging.
Thomas Jefferson's Academical Village and the Rotunda form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Lawn, colonnaded pavilions, and serpentine walls make it one of the most architecturally significant campuses in the world.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
UVA Police Division patrols Grounds 24/7 with blue-light emergency phones and a robust alert system. Alcohol and drug violations are the most common incidents.
Charlottesville is a small city with a violent crime rate well below the national average. The area immediately around Grounds and the Corner is generally safe.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Multiple times weekly during academic year (group tours on Wednesdays in Spring 2026)
Duration: 75-90 minutes
Opens with a brief welcome from a dean, then a student-led tour covering history, academics, extracurriculars, athletics, dining, and traditions. Tour size is limited for safety — each student may bring two guests, space limited to registered guests only, no waitlist.
Book a TourUVA welcomes visitors to explore Grounds at any time independently using their self-guided tour resources.
Tour ResourcesVisit late March through May when the Lawn is green, dogwoods are blooming, and student life is in full swing. October is also excellent for fall foliage against the red brick. Game days (especially vs. Virginia Tech) bring huge energy. Avoid January-February (cold and gray) and the week between Thanksgiving and New Year's when campus is quiet.
Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO) is 8 miles away (~20 min drive), with non-stop flights to Charlotte, Philadelphia, NYC-LaGuardia, Dulles, Detroit, and Atlanta. The Central Grounds Garage (400 Emmet St S, under the University Bookstore) is the main visitor parking location. Hourly visitor parking also available via ParkMobile at various Grounds locations.
Location
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