Washington University in St Louis (WashU) vs University of Virginia-Main Campus (UVA)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) and the University of Virginia (UVA)?

  WashU is a private research university known for its strong pre-med, engineering, and business programs, offering a more intimate campus environment. UVA, a public institution, is renowned for its history, architecture (designed by Thomas Jefferson), and strong liberal arts, law, and business schools, with a larger student body and a more pronounced emphasis on its public mission. Location is also a key difference: WashU is in St. Louis, Missouri, a major Midwestern city, while UVA is in Charlottesville, Virginia, a smaller city with a strong college-town feel.

• Which school is more selective: WashU or UVA?

  Both WashU and UVA are highly selective, but WashU generally has a slightly lower acceptance rate, making it marginally more competitive to get into. However, the strength of your application should be tailored to each school's specific priorities and values.

• How do the academic strengths of WashU and UVA compare?

  WashU excels in medicine, engineering, business, and social sciences, with a strong emphasis on research opportunities for undergraduates. UVA is highly regarded for its liberal arts, law, business, and public policy programs, benefiting from its historical legacy and strong faculty. Both universities offer a wide range of excellent programs, so consider which school's strengths align best with your academic interests.

• What is the campus environment like at WashU versus UVA?

  WashU has a more compact and self-contained campus, fostering a close-knit community. UVA's campus, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is larger and more spread out, with a strong sense of tradition and history. UVA also has a more prominent Greek life presence. Both offer a vibrant student life, but the overall feel and social dynamics differ.

• How do the costs of attending WashU and UVA compare?

  WashU, as a private university, typically has a higher tuition cost than UVA, especially for out-of-state students. UVA offers lower tuition rates for Virginia residents. However, both universities offer financial aid and scholarships, so it's important to compare the net cost (cost after aid) for your specific circumstances.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of WashU and UVA?

  Graduates from both WashU and UVA enjoy excellent career prospects. WashU's location in St. Louis provides opportunities in various industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology. UVA's proximity to Washington D.C. and its strong alumni network open doors in government, law, business, and consulting. Both schools have strong career services departments to support students in their job search.

• How do the research opportunities compare at WashU and UVA?

  Both WashU and UVA are major research universities with ample opportunities for undergraduate research. WashU has a strong focus on medical and scientific research, particularly through its affiliation with Barnes-Jewish Hospital. UVA offers research opportunities across a wide range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and engineering. Students at both institutions can get involved in research labs, independent projects, and faculty-led studies.

• What is the student body like at WashU versus UVA?

  WashU has a more geographically diverse student body, drawing students from across the United States and internationally. UVA has a larger proportion of students from Virginia, although it also attracts students from all over the country and the world. Both universities strive for diversity in terms of ethnicity, socioeconomic background, and academic interests.

• How does the location of each university impact the student experience?

  WashU's location in St. Louis provides access to a major metropolitan area with cultural attractions, professional sports teams, and internship opportunities. UVA's location in Charlottesville offers a more relaxed and college-town atmosphere, with access to outdoor activities in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. The choice depends on whether you prefer a bustling city environment or a more intimate and scenic setting.

• What are some unique aspects of WashU and UVA that might appeal to different students?

  WashU's emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and its 'Beyond Boundaries' program might appeal to students seeking a flexible and personalized academic experience. UVA's Honor System and its strong sense of tradition might attract students who value integrity and community. Consider what aspects of each university resonate most with your personal values and academic goals.