The UVA Darden Admissions Committee is extremely thoughtful about application materials, and we expect you to be as well! Our new “2025–26 Application Tips” video and podcast series offers important tips for prospective applicants in short (under 10 minute) segments. You’re invited to watch or listen, whichever medium is best for you!
Today we’re talking about the application process — what to think about before you start your application, while you’re working on the different elements and after you press “submit.”
There are some materials you can gather before you start your application:
- An updated resume (one page will do)
- The name of your recommender — have a conversation with them so they know what to expect.
- Your job history
- A standardized test score
- You may submit your application with unverified scores, however, please note that we must receive a verified score within two weeks of the application deadline in order for your application to be considered complete.
- Transcripts, unofficial is acceptable for the application
- If you are admitted and choose to matriculate at Darden, then we will require official transcripts.
Director of Admissions Catie Yeilding recommends creating an Excel document to keep track of the different application elements. You could create columns like “Application Element,” “Progress,” etc.
“As you decide when you want to apply to Darden, find that deadline that works best in your schedule and then work backwards. Get an understanding of how long each of these components may take you to prepare so you can be ready to press “submit” when the time comes.”
Upcoming Application Deadlines
- Round 1: 1 October 2025
- Round 2: 7 January 2026
- Round 3: 1 April 2026
We look forward to receiving your application!
