Walentas Scholars Program

Scholarship Sponsored by Jefferson Scholars Foundation

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation attracts outstanding undergraduate students to the University of Virginia through two scholarship programs–the Jefferson Scholars Program and the Walentas Scholars Program.

The Scholarships

Developing leaders, scholars, and citizens for the benefit of the University and the world at-large is at the heart of what we do.

Our two scholarship programs—the Jefferson Scholars Program and the Walentas Scholars Program—cultivate outstanding undergraduate students, providing them with financial support to pursue their passions, develop their talents, and encourage their community involvement.

Both programs provide generous financial packages, enrichment opportunities, and access to the JSF network of Scholars, Fellows, alumni, and volunteers.

Walentas Scholars

Scholarship awarded to first-generation, college-bound students on the basis of demonstrated excellence and exceptional potential in the areas of leadership, scholarship, and engaged citizenship.

What are the selection criteria?

The Jefferson and Walentas Scholarship are seeking nominees who demonstrate excellence or the potential for excellence as leaders, scholars, and engaged citizens.

Walentas Scholarship nominees must also be first-generation, college-bound students.

What is the definition of "first generation"?

While a parent or guardian may have earned a certificate, credit, or an associate’s degree from a college, a student is eligible for the Walentas Scholarship if neither parent or guardian has earned a bachelor’s degree or its international equivalent.

If you have questions about a student’s eligibility for the Walentas Scholarship, please contact us.

Walentas Scholars

Scholarship awarded to first-generation, college-bound students on the basis of demonstrated excellence and exceptional potential in the areas of leadership, scholarship, and engaged citizenship.

Is this a full scholarship for four years?

Yes. The scholarship includes tuition, room, board, books, and miscellaneous expenses based on full-time enrollment for eight semesters at the University of Virginia.

What supports for first-generation students does the Walentas Scholarship provide?

Walentas Scholars enjoy the same enrichment opportunities as the Jefferson Scholars. In addition, Walentas Scholars will participate in a Scholar Summit before their first year at UVA to ease the transition to college and begin community building. Walentas Scholars, like Jefferson Scholars, have access to a dedicated program director and the Foundation staff to support their journey through UVA. Additionally, UVA offers many resources for first-generation students.