Florida Colleges & Universities

Explore Florida's Premier Universities

Discover the Sunshine State's rapidly rising higher education system featuring top research universities, innovative programs, and year-round opportunities.

Florida's Higher Education System

State University System (SUS)
12
Public Universities

Research universities including UF, FSU, UCF, and USF. Focus on research, graduate programs, and competitive admissions with exceptional value.

Key Features:
  • • World-class research opportunities
  • • Highly competitive admissions
  • • Excellent in-state tuition value
  • • Strong graduate programs
Florida College System (FCS)
28
State Colleges

State colleges offering associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and workforce certificates with guaranteed transfer pathways to state universities.

Key Features:
  • • Open enrollment policy
  • • Guaranteed transfer agreements
  • • Very affordable tuition
  • • Bachelor's degree programs
Private Universities
30+
Private Institutions

Prestigious private universities including University of Miami, Nova Southeastern, and Florida Institute of Technology offering specialized programs.

Key Features:
  • • Small class sizes
  • • Specialized programs
  • • Strong alumni networks
  • • Merit-based scholarships

Featured Florida Universities

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL
Public Research University

Top-ranked public university with world-class research and diverse academic programs

Students
52,367
Admission Rate
23.0%
Graduation Rate
90.0%
In-State Tuition
$6,381
Out-of-State
$28,659

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL
Public Research University

Premier public university known for strong academics and vibrant campus life

Students
41,005
Admission Rate
25.0%
Graduation Rate
83.0%
In-State Tuition
$6,507
Out-of-State
$21,673

University of Miami

Coral Gables, FL
Private Research University

Elite private university with beautiful campus and strong programs across disciplines

Students
16,774
Admission Rate
19.0%
Graduation Rate
84.0%
In-State Tuition
$54,760
Out-of-State
$54,760

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL
Public Research University

Large innovative university with cutting-edge facilities and technology focus

Students
68,346
Admission Rate
44.0%
Graduation Rate
73.0%
In-State Tuition
$6,368
Out-of-State
$22,467

Florida Institute of Technology

Melbourne, FL
Private Research University

Top-tier STEM university with strong engineering and technology programs

Students
6,171
Admission Rate
58.0%
Graduation Rate
64.0%
In-State Tuition
$47,840
Out-of-State
$47,840

Florida International University

Miami, FL
Public Research University

Diverse international university with strong business and engineering programs

Students
58,786
Admission Rate
58.0%
Graduation Rate
67.0%
In-State Tuition
$6,566
Out-of-State
$18,963

Florida Higher Education Advantages

Bright Futures Scholarships

Florida's merit-based scholarship program can cover 75-100% of tuition for high-achieving students who meet academic and community service requirements.

Scholarship Levels:

  • • Florida Academic Scholars (FAS): 100% tuition + $300/semester
  • • Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS): 75% tuition coverage
  • • Available for 4-year and 2-year programs
  • • Community service requirement included
Year-Round Opportunities

Florida's climate enables unique research opportunities, internships, and outdoor activities throughout the academic year that aren't available elsewhere.

Unique Benefits:

  • • Marine science and environmental research
  • • Space and aerospace programs near Kennedy Space Center
  • • International business opportunities
  • • Tourism and hospitality industry connections

Continue Your Florida College Planning Journey

Now that you've explored your options, learn about funding your education

Back: Florida College Planning

Return to the main Florida college planning guide and overview

Back to Main Guide

Step 2: Financial Aid & Scholarships

Learn about Bright Futures, FSAG, and other Florida aid programs

Explore Financial Aid