University of South Florida
The Vibe Check
The University of South Florida pulses with a vibrant, forward-looking energy, fueled by its massive student body and cutting-edge research culture. It feels like a dynamic hub where academic ambition meets Florida sunshine, creating a campus that's constantly buzzing with possibility and innovation.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
USF is a powerhouse in research and health sciences, consistently classified as a top-tier research university by the Carnegie Classification. Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities and collaborations with faculty who are leading groundbreaking studies in medicine, engineering, and sustainability.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Tampa
Tampa offers a vibrant playground for students, with easy access to beautiful beaches, professional sports games, and a thriving downtown scene. Students enjoy exploring the historic Ybor City district for nightlife, relaxing at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, and experiencing the diverse food and festival culture.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($57,743):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
USF has its own comprehensive police department and offers extensive safety resources like a well-lit campus and a robust emergency alert system. While the campus itself is safe, students should exercise standard urban awareness when venturing into the surrounding Tampa area.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Top-tier research university status with extensive opportunities for undergraduate involvement.
- ✓ Exceptionally strong value, particularly for in-state students, with low tuition and high earning potential.
- ✓ Prime location in Tampa provides access to internships, a vibrant social scene, and year-round sunshine.
- ✓ High retention and graduation rates indicate strong student support and academic success.
Cons
- ✗ Large class sizes, especially in introductory courses, can make it feel impersonal for some students.
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher, reducing the financial advantage for non-residents.
- ✗ The sprawling urban campus can be challenging to navigate, and a car is often needed to explore Tampa fully.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of South Florida is widely known for its premier research programs, particularly in the health sciences, medicine, and engineering. It is also recognized for its strong value as a public university, its vibrant campus life in the heart of Tampa, and its significant economic impact on the region.
USF has a moderately selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of 40.96%. While not as competitive as some elite private universities, it is more selective than many other public institutions. Applicants should present a strong academic profile, with the average admitted student having an SAT score around 1235 and a solid high school GPA.
Campus life at USF is energetic and diverse, with over 600 student organizations catering to a wide range of interests. The campus features modern facilities, a large recreation center, and Division I athletics, including the popular USF Bulls football team. Its location in Tampa means students have easy access to off-campus entertainment, beaches, and cultural events.
For Florida residents, USF is an outstanding financial investment, with low in-state tuition and a 10-year median earnings figure of $57,743 that provides an excellent return. For out-of-state students, the value is still strong compared to many private universities, but the higher tuition requires careful consideration against career goals and potential earnings.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 44,120
- In-State Tuition $6,410
- Out-of-State $17,324
- Zip Code 33620
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a remarkably low in-state tuition of $6,410 and an average net price of $10,043, USF offers an exceptional return on investment, especially for Florida residents. The 10-year median earnings of $57,743 significantly outpace the cost of attendance, making it a financially savvy choice for a degree with strong career prospects.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.