Secure Your Place Early In the Data Science Major
The School of Data Science is piloting Assured Enrollment into the B.S. in Data Science (BSDS), giving University of Virginia first-year students the opportunity to engage early with the School and secure a place in the data science major.
The future belongs to those who can harness the power of data and AI. At the UVA School of Data Science, the B.S. in Data Science prepares students to lead in an AI-driven world through an innovative, interdisciplinary education that empowers them to understand, build, elevate, and responsibly apply data-driven technologies to solve real-world challenges.
Why consider Assured Enrollment in the data science major?
- Secure admission to the BSDS early.
- Bypass the traditional BSDS regular admissions process.
- Given priority BSDS course registration for Fall 2027.
- Access personalized academic counseling for BSDS degree.
- Receive invitations to signature School events.
- Join a tight-knit community with meaningful engagement from your first year.
How can I learn more?
Complete the interest form or connect with us for more information:
- Attend an information session during the second day of Orientation at 2 p.m. in the Newcomb South Meeting Room.
- Schedule a virtual appointment with our team.
- Email questions to sdsadmissions@virginia.edu.
What are the BSDS program requirements for admission?
Completion of 24 credit hours at the University of Virginia by the end of a student’s first year, including DS 1001 and the programming requirement, while maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
DS 1001 Foundations of Data Science must be taken at the University of Virginia and completed with a grade of C- or higher. The programming requirement may be met by enrolling in one of the following courses at UVA or transfer test credit:
- DS 1002 Programming for Data Science
- CS 1110/1111/1112: Introduction to Programming
- PHYS 1655/ CS 1113: Introduction to Python for Scientists and Engineers
- AP Computer Science A (with a score of 4 or 5)
- IB HL Computer Science (with a score of 5, 6, or 7)
The Undergraduate Record represents the official repository for academic program requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Assured Enrollment?
Assured Enrollment guarantees non-binding admission to the B.S. in Data Science (BSDS) for first-year students who successfully complete all published program requirements in the Undergraduate Record by the end of their first year without the traditional application process. Students who do not participate in Assured Enrollment may still apply through the regular BSDS admissions process. This pilot program is applicable for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Who is eligible?
All first-year UVA students are eligible. Students who identified data science as an academic interest on the Common Application received an invitation from the School, but the pilot program is open to all first-year students.
What do I need to do to participate?
To participate in Assured Enrollment, you must:
- Complete the interest form;
- Submit an intent to enroll;
- Accept the conditional offer of admission;
- Complete the prerequisite coursework by the end of your first year (See other ways to meet the programming prerequisite); and
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress according to the Undergraduate Record.
What are the benefits of Assured Enrollment?
Assured Enrollment grants you early data science course registration for Fall 2027, invitations to School of Data Science signature events, personalized academic counseling for BSDS degree, and ease of transfer process to the data science major.
Who is my academic advisor in my first year at UVA?
Your first-year academic advisor will remain with your original school of enrollment (e.g. College of Arts & Sciences).
Is Assured Enrollment binding?
No, it is not binding.
When do I officially become a School of Data Science student?
You will transfer to the School of Data Science in the summer of 2027.
Can I pursue another major?
Students can double major in the School of Data Science and the College of Arts & Sciences or decide not to major in data science. They can also pursue the Data Science Minor.
What if I decide not to participate in Assured Enrollment?
You may still apply to the B.S. in Data Science at the end of your first year through the standard application process, which opens in Spring 2027. You will need to complete the required prerequisite courses and meet satisfactory academic progress according to the Undergraduate Record.
