![](https://www.virginia.edu/sites/default/files/styles/refresh_storytelling_hero_desktop/public/refresh-about_the_university.jpg?itok=3UPJZsfU×tamp=1549917173)
In 1819, Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia and inaugurated a bold experiment – a public university designed to advance human knowledge, educate leaders and cultivate an informed citizenry.
More than two centuries later, this vision is thriving. Across Grounds - and throughout the world - UVA students, faculty, staff and alumni challenge convention, break barriers and pursue the greater good.
A Leader in Public Higher Education
The University is an iconic public institution of higher education, boasting nationally ranked schools and programs, diverse and distinguished faculty, a major academic medical center and proud history as a renowned research university. The community and culture of the University are enriched by active student self-governance, sustained commitment to the arts and a robust NCAA Division I Athletics program.
Rankings
In its third century, the University of Virginia offers an affordable, world-class education that is consistently ranked among the nation’s best.
#1
Top College in Virginia, Forbes, 2023
#1
Best Public College for Financial Aid, Princeton Review, 2024
#5
Best Public National University, U.S. News & World Report, 2024
Leadership and Stewardship
As one of the nation’s leading public institutions, UVA pushes the boundaries of what’s possible – always in the name of the greater good. One of the things that makes this possible is an unswerving commitment to initiatives that grow, strengthen and shape our institution for the future.
![Office of the President](https://www.virginia.edu/sites/default/files/jr-3.jpg)
![Financial Stewardship](https://www.virginia.edu/sites/default/files/201904-3up-about-financial.jpg)
![Leadership](https://www.virginia.edu/sites/default/files/201904-3up-about-leadership.jpg)
Serving the Greater Good
![Affordability and Access](https://www.virginia.edu/sites/default/files/key-afford.png)
Affordability and Access
UVA provides a world-class education to talented students who meet our rigorous standards. Through our financial aid model, we accept students solely on academic merit; cover 100% of financial need; and limit debt. One of two public universities using this approach, we offer robust student scholarship support while protecting against excessive student debt – because we believe a world-class education should be affordable to all.
![Economic Impact](https://www.virginia.edu/sites/default/files/key-economic-600.png)
Economic Impact
UVA serves as a powerful engine for the Commonwealth, either directly or indirectly supporting one in every 76 jobs in the state and generating nearly $6 billion in annual economic impact. The University generates hundreds of millions in tax revenue for local governments, and its faculty, staff and students contribute thousands of volunteer hours to local charities.
![Engine for Research and Innovation](https://www.virginia.edu/sites/default/files/keyresearch.jpg)
Engine for Research and Innovation
UVA researchers focus on intellectual and societal challenges that impact the greater good, creating new knowledge that moves the world forward. As part of this effort, the University invests in several cross-disciplinary initiatives, including the Data Science Institute, Biocomplexity Institute and Initiative, in addition to many other significant resources. In FY24 alone, the University generated $549 million in sponsored research awards.
![Commitment to Diversity](https://www.virginia.edu/sites/default/files/201905-commitment-ss.jpg)
Commitment to Diversity
Diversity stands with ethics, integrity, and academic excellence, as a cornerstone of University culture. The University promotes an inclusive and welcoming environment that embraces the full spectrum of human attributes, perspectives, and disciplines. When people of different backgrounds come together, they exchange ideas, question assumptions (including their own), and broaden the horizons for us all. A University of Virginia community rich in diversity affords every member equal respect and provides a forum for understanding our differences as well as our commonalities.