most generous financial aid." In 2019, Richmond was ranked as the 20th best liberal arts college in America by Niche. In 2016 and 2017, the University of Richmond was ranked second for the total number of students sent to study abroad among top baccalaureate colleges according to the Institute of International Education's “Open Door Report.” The University of Richmond's name leads some to believe that it is a public institution drawing students primarily from within Virginia. However, only about 15 percent of UR's undergraduate students are from Virginia. The University of Richmond draws many students from the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, but also from across the country and abroad. Financial aid Richmond administers a generous financial aid program, with more than 60 percent of all students receiving some form of financial assistance. Richmond offers a need-blind admissions policy that does not consider an applicant's ability to pay in the admission decision, and it pledges to meet 100 percent of an admitted domestic student's demonstrated need. UR also offers 25 merit-based, full tuition and room and board scholarships to students in each entering class (approximately 1 out of every 30 students). These scholarships are housed under the Richmond Scholars program that also includes benefits like priority class registration, a one-time academic activity stipend, and free admission to Modlin Center events. Recently, to encourage enrollment from Virginia residents, admitted students from Virginia with family incomes of $60,000 or less receive full-tuition/room and board financial aid packages without loans. Richmond's financial aid program is due, in no small part, to its endowment of over $2 billion, placing it within the top 40 nationally among college and university endowments. Student research The University of Richmond offers numerous research opportunities for students. In addition to research-based courses, independent studies, and practicums in most disciplines, many special opportunities exist for students to participate in close research collaborations with faculty. Student research occurs in all academic areas, including the arts, sciences, social sciences, and other fields. In 2019 Richmond graduated the fourth most Fulbright Scholars out of American undergraduate institutions. Student life Richmond has over 165 student organizations. Student groups include those devoted to: Academic interests: (Phi Beta Kappa; WILL*, formerly Women Involved in Learning and Living; Model United Nations), Student government: Richmond College Student Government Association (RCSGA, est. 1915), Westhampton College Government Association (WCGA, est. 1914), Robins School of Business Student