Costs and Frequently Asked Questions

Summer Language Institute

Costs

The SLI fees are based on the number of credits each language offers (12 or 8 credits). All participants must pay the Institute Fee of $60 and the Comprehensive Fee. The table below shows the costs of one credit hour. To find out the total costs check the web page of the language of your interest.

Virginia Resident

Non-Virginia Resident

Non-refundable Fee: Institute Fee

$60

$60

Required Fee: Comprehensive Fee

$475

$535

Undergraduate Student Tuition

$470 x credit hour

$1,736 x credit hour

Graduate Student Tuition

$551 x credit hour

$1,117 x credit hour

Learning without earning credits: Flat rate for 12 or 8 credits

$5,640 (full program)

$5,640 (full program)

Learning without earning credits: Flat rate for 6 or 4 credits

$2,820 (half program)

$2,820 (half program)

Financial Aid & Fellowships

UVA does not offer any scholarship support for summer language study. Need-based financial aid is only available for currently enrolled, degree-seeking students at UVA. See Summer Session Financial Aid. It may be possible for visiting students to apply for a FLAS through your home institution. UVA graduate students should consult their department's Director of Graduate Studies to inquire about the availability of GSAS funds for summer language study. 

Note to students applying for financial aid through UVA: please request an early enrollment from the SLI office.

Proficiency Test

Students will take a proficiency test at the end of the Summer Language Institute program without additional charges.

Students enrolled in Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Russian, and Spanish SLI took the ACTFL OPIc (Oral Proficiency-Computer Interview) test, while Latin SLI students took the Avant (1 skill—reading) test.

In the years 2023 and 2024, over 80% received ratings between Intermediate Low and Intermediate High. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the admission to the Summer Language Institute competitive?

A: Admission is generally accessible. If you’re in good academic standing and apply early with clear motivations for studying the language, you have a strong chance of being admitted. Common reasons for denial include being overqualified or lack of space.

Q: Do I need to submit both my undergraduate and graduate transcripts?

A: You only need to submit a transcript from the last institution you attended.

Q: What are the Virginia residency requirements for the SLI?

A: If you believe you qualify for in-state tuition, check the appropriate box on the application. The Office of Virginia Status will make the final decision regarding eligibility.

Q: When can I expect a decision after submitting my application?

A: Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis. You’ll typically receive your decision within 2-4 weeks after submitting your application. You can check your application status online at any time.

Q: What does it mean if I’m considered “overqualified”?

A: The SLI is designed for beginning-level students, with exceptions for certain advanced levels. If you have significant experience in the language, you may be considered "overqualified." Contact the program director to discuss your eligibility.

Q: How do I register for SLI classes after being admitted?
Q: Should I wait to apply for on-Grounds housing until after I’m admitted?
Q: Does the tuition include housing and meals?

A: No, tuition does not cover housing or meals.

Q: Can I switch from the non-credit option to the credit option?

SLI: Apply

Learn more about how to apply to the Summer Language Institute.