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Admission FAQs

What is an art supplement? Who submits one? How does it help an admission application?

Students with talent in visual art, dance, drama or music, and who plan to participate or major/minor in the arts are encouraged to submit an optional art supplement with the admission application. Art supplements are not evaluated by admission deans; rather, they are evaluated by faculty of the appropriate department. If the supplement is favorably rated, this rating will be applied to the admission file.

Students who submit an art supplement will also be considered for the Arts Scholars Program at the University. Arts Scholars are part of a small group of undergraduate students who have direct access to the best resources in the arts at the University of Virginia, including introductions to its most distinguished arts faculty. Arts Scholars have a senior faculty member serving as their adviser-mentor from the very beginning of their program of study. First- through fourth-year Arts Scholars gather regularly for events and offerings, building close connections with some of the most gifted fellow artists on Grounds. During the first year, all scholars enroll in the College Arts Scholars Seminar, where they meet internationally renowned arts faculty from each of the participating departments, hear talks on issues at the forefront of the arts and visit arts facilities.

Art supplements should include:

  • A portfolio of visual art (up to 15 pieces) for artists.
  • A 20-minute or shorter DVD (or Web address) for dancers.
  • A Web address, DVD or portfolio for actors, designers, writers, directors and technicians.
  • A sound recording or a Web address for musicians.
  • A Web address or sound recording for marching band.

Early-action art supplements should be postmarked by Oct. 1 and regular-decision supplements should be postmarked by Dec. 1. Do not send originals; items cannot be returned.