How to Get into the University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public land grant research University in Gainesville, Florida. It is a senior member of the State University System of Florida, which is a system of 12 public universities across the state of Florida. U Florida has been operating since 1853 and has been at the Gainesville Campus since 1906.  

What is the University of Florida? 

The University of Florida offers a staggeringly low $6,400 yearly tuition for in-state residents, making it an attractive option for overachieving and ambitious Florida high schoolers. Add in the fact that the university is home to 16 academic colleges and 150 research centers, it is no wonder why the Sunshine State has such a collegiate gem. 

Testing Scores for Admission

According to the college, the average SAT score ranges from 1330 to 1470, while the average ACT score is between 30 and 34. The average weighted GPA of acceptance is around 4.51, and 81% of students placed in the top 10% of their class, while 98% placed in the top 25%. As such, GPA is just as important as the main two standardized tests. 

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Acceptance & Graduation Rate

To get into U Florida, a student’s standardized test scores and high school GPA have to be exceptional. This is reflected in the acceptance rate as it is 30%, meaning that roughly one of twenty students that apply get in. However, this school has enrolled some of the brightest students as the graduation rate is 88%.

How Are Applicants Rated? 

The University of Florida ranks the following seven categories as being “very important” to the admissions process: high school course load, volunteer work, GPA, extracurricular activities, application essays, talent/ability, and character/personal qualities. Items that are “important” as part of the admissions process are: standardized test scores, first-generation status, and work experience. “Considered” factors are: class rank, geographical residence (Florida residents are at an advantage), alumni relation, and the level of demonstrated interest.

Tips to Get Into the University of Florida 

  • Athletes enjoy a huge advantage in getting accepted as University of Florida takes great pride in their 21 NCAA Division 1 sports teams. Being in a sports team is a great extracurricular activity to get into U Florida. 
  • The University of Florida requires official ACT and SAT score reports. Many other schools will let you self-report, but Florida doesn’t.
  • You should also save some extra time to complete the Student Self-Reported Academic Record (SSAR) required by the University of Florida. This is essentially a self-reported transcript for grades 9-11.
  • Consider taking a few extracurricular activities and try just as hard with them as you would with school work. UF’s comprehensive holistic application review also considers personal essays, academic awards, extracurricular activities, family background and home community.

How Does U Florida Compare to Other Top Universities? 

Florida’s yield rate; the percentage of accepted students who elect to enroll, divided by the total number of students who are admitted, was 42% last year. This figure is comparable to other powerhouse state universities like UVA (41%) and UCLA (44%).  

Are you or will you be attending the University of Florida?

Stock up on gear to show your pride for the Gators. Grab this sweatshirt, decals for your laptop, or this University of Florida pennant.

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