The University of South Florida (USF), established in 1956, is a public research university located in the vibrant Tampa Bay region of Florida. With campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee, USF serves nearly 50,000 students, offering a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degrees across its 13 colleges.

History:

USF was founded in 1956 as the first independent state university conceived, planned, and built in the 20th century. Over the decades, it has evolved into a major public research institution, earning the designation of a Preeminent State Research University by the Florida Board of Governors. In 2023, USF was invited to join the Association of American Universities (AAU), a prestigious group of leading research universities in the United States and Canada, marking a significant milestone in its history.

Academic Programs:

USF offers more than 200 undergraduate majors, minors, and concentrations, encompassing fields such as business, engineering, the arts, and health sciences. The university is organized into 13 colleges, including:

• College of Arts and Sciences
• Muma College of Business
• College of Education
• College of Engineering
• College of Nursing
• Morsani College of Medicine

This diverse academic portfolio supports a wide array of disciplines and research opportunities.

usf.edu

Rankings:

USF has garnered recognition for its academic excellence and research contributions. In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings, USF is ranked among the top national universities. Additionally, the university is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity,” reflecting its significant commitment to research.

Tuition and Fees:

For the academic year, in-state undergraduate students face tuition and fees of approximately $6,410, while out-of-state students incur costs around $17,324. Graduate program costs vary, and prospective students are encouraged to consult the university’s official website for the most current information.

Research and Innovation:

USF is renowned for its research initiatives, particularly in health sciences, engineering, and business. In 2023, USF was granted 88 new U.S. utility patents, ranking 14th among American public research universities and 34th worldwide in generating new patents. The university’s research endeavors are supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a culture that fosters innovation and collaboration.

Campus Life:

USF’s campuses offer a dynamic and engaging environment for students. The Tampa campus, the largest of the three, features modern residential facilities, over 600 student organizations, and a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The St. Petersburg and Sarasota-Manatee campuses provide unique learning environments with coastal settings, fostering close-knit communities and personalized learning experiences.

Alumni Network:

USF boasts a strong and active alumni network, with graduates excelling in various fields such as business, healthcare, engineering, and the arts. The university maintains active engagement with its alumni through events, networking opportunities, and professional development resources, fostering a lifelong connection between graduates and their alma mater.

Academic Requirements

1. High School Academic Performance:

• Grade Point Average (GPA): USF requires a strong academic record. The average GPA of admitted students is approximately 4.2 on a weighted scale, indicating that successful applicants typically have nearly straight A’s in rigorous courses..

2. Standardized Test Scores:

• SAT or ACT: Submission of official SAT or ACT scores is mandatory. USF considers your highest submitted section scores across all test dates. The university does not require the optional essay section of the SAT or ACT.
  • Minimum Subsection Scores:
    • SAT:
      • Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 490
      • Math: 480
    • ACT:
      • Reading: 19
      • English: 17
      • Math: 19
    • CLT:
      • Verbal Reasoning + Grammar/Writing: 38
      • Quantitative Reasoning: 16

These are the minimum required scores; however, competitive applicants often present higher scores.

3. High School Coursework:

• College Preparatory Courses: USF recommends completion of a rigorous high school curriculum, including advanced placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), honors, or dual enrollment courses, to demonstrate college readiness.

4. Additional Application Materials:

• Application Fee: A nonrefundable $30 application fee or an approved fee waiver.
• Official Transcripts: Submission of official high school transcripts is required.
• Letters of Recommendation: Not required for admission.

For international applicants, additional requirements include:

• English Language Proficiency: If English is not your native language, you must provide proof of proficiency through tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
• Certified Translations: Non-English transcripts must be accompanied by certified English translations.