University of Florida

The University of Florida (UF) is a public research university located in Gainesville, Florida. Established in 1853, UF is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. It is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group of leading research institutions in North America. The university is classified as a Research I institution, indicating the highest level of research activity.

UF offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across its 16 colleges and more than 150 research centers and institutes. The university is particularly known for its programs in engineering, business, law, medicine, and agriculture. The Warrington College of Business, the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, and the Levin College of Law are among the most highly ranked schools within the university.

The university's campus spans over 2,000 acres and includes state-of-the-art facilities, libraries, and research centers. UF is home to the McKnight Brain Institute, the UF Health Shands Hospital, and the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), which contribute significantly to scientific advancements and public service.

UF has a strong athletic tradition and is a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The Florida Gators, the university’s athletic teams, have won multiple national championships in various sports, including football, basketball, and gymnastics. The university's Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, also known as "The Swamp," is one of the most iconic college football venues in the country.

The student body at UF is diverse, with over 60,000 students enrolled in various programs. The university emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship, with numerous initiatives supporting startups and research commercialization. UF consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States, recognized for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to student success.

Notable alumni of UF include former U.S. senators, governors, astronauts, and business leaders. The university's impact extends beyond Florida, influencing industries and communities worldwide. With a commitment to academic excellence, research, and public service, the University of Florida continues to be a leader in higher education.

• Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering

  The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering is the largest professional school, the second largest college, and one of the top three research units at the University of Florida. With nine departments, 15 degree programs, and more than 20 centers and institutes, the college offers students both depth and breadth in their scholastic and career choices. Curriculum is designed to produce leaders and problem-solvers who take a multidisciplinary approach to innovation. Per research dollar invested, the college produces inventions at twice the national average, and startups at five times the national average. The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering is one of the ten largest in the country, and virtually every major global corporation recruits its graduates.

• Warrington College of Business

  The Warrington College of Business Administration is one of the premier public business schools in the world, characterized by outstanding students, faculty, and administrators. This organizational excellence is reflected in numerous national rankings. In the latest U.S. News and World Report rankings, the Hough Graduate School of Business ranked #15 among public universities, the newly-established Heavener School of Business ranked #21, and the Fisher School of Accounting ranked #5. The Economist also ranked Warrington #1 among all U.S. universities for its faculty quality and its online MBA program. Warrington is highly productive and efficient in its educational mission. In 2011, Warrington awarded over 2,200 degrees (second highest among its peer group, which averaged 1,550 degrees). Furthermore, Warrington’s degrees awarded per faculty was highest among its peers at 20.9, against the peer average of 12.2; the next highest was 15.5. 

• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS)

  As the university’s largest college, we are home to the humanities, the social and behavioral sciences, and the physical, natural and mathematical sciences. We are therefore charged with the responsibility of teaching the majority of the university’s core curriculum each year. Nearly every UF undergraduate takes at least one class in our college. More than 14,000 undergraduate and graduate students pursue their degrees from among 42 disciplines. From astronomy to women’s studies, we offer the largest selection of majors on campus. But educating tomorrow’s leaders is not the only task occupying our over 700 faculty. Whether discovering new planets, serving on presidential task forces or writing bestselling novels, they have achieved international acclaim for their contributions to society. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is, in short, the heart of the University of Florida and the Gator Nation. 

  At the undergraduate level, students acquire an intellectual foundation based on a well-rounded and comprehensive education designed for an increasingly technological and rapidly changing society. At the graduate level, students master a specialized body of knowledge and pursue original research under the guidance of outstanding faculty.

• Fredric G. Levin College of Law

  UF Law has a longstanding tradition of preparing its graduates for significant leadership roles. UF Law is fourth among public law schools (eighth overall) for the number of degrees granted to sitting federal judges as of 2014, according to Federal Judicial Center data; more than 250 graduates serve as state appellate and trial judges in Florida and many serve in those roles in other states.No law school has produced as many presidents of the American Bar Association since 1973. There have been five UF Law graduates, including 2010-11 president Stephen N. Zack (pictured). Graduates are also represented by the majority of The Florida Bar presidents, including President-elect Bill Schifino (JD 85) and past-Presidents Eugene K. Pettis (JD 85), Gwynne Young (JD 74), Scott Hawkins (JD 83), Mayanne Downs (JD 87) and John G. White III (JD 83). Four Florida governors and hundreds of state senators, representatives and cabinet members hail from UF Law. Thirteen graduates also became college presidents, and more than a dozen have served as deans of law schools.

• College of Medicine

  Providing superior patient care with a humanistic approach is the driving force behind each one of our missions at the College of Medicine. Our clinical faculty and health-care partners will serve as some of the best teachers and role models you will come across in your medical education career.

  The UF Health Science Center, with campuses in Gainesville and Jacksonville, is home to a world-class academic health center that has been serving Florida for more than 50 years. Our partner in providing innovative, high-quality health care for a half century is UF Health Shands Hospital. The UF Health family of hospitals comprises two major teaching hospitals, UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville and UF Health Jacksonville (each a Level I trauma center); two specialty hospitals, UF Health Shands Rehab Hospital and UF Health Shands Psychiatric Hospital; a network of outpatient rehabilitation centers; and two home-health agencies. UF Health includes UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, UF Health Shands Cancer Hospital and UF Health Shands Critical Care Center.

  In addition, the college partners with the Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, which is located across the street and serves military veterans from throughout North Central Florida and South Georgia. The college also has affiliations with several community health-care sites and additional hospitals in Florida.

• College of Journalism and Communications

  The UF College of Journalism and Communications is considered one of the nation’s best. The strength of its programs, faculty, students and alumni throughout its history has earned the college ongoing recognition as one of the best programs of journalism and communications in the United States.

  Led by Dean Diane McFarlin, the College developed its reputation for excellence by creating curricula that combine conceptual and theoretical instruction with skills training so students have the opportunity to apply what they are learning in professional settings. Professional and practical opportunities are key components of a productive learning experience for students in journalism and communications fields and contribute to the College’s national rankings.

• College of Design, Construction and Planning

• College of Veterinary Medicine

  Following graduation of its first class in 1980, the college has built on the university’s reputation for excellence. Today we claim more than 2400 graduates of our professional (DVM) degree program. We pride ourselves in our commitment to advancing scientific medical knowledge. The college commits to:

  • Provide clinical educational experiences with all major species for students, interns, and residents and service referring veterinarians and animal owners through the UF Veterinary Hospitals and outreach programs
  • Develop new knowledge through basic science research, clinical research, and educational programs.
  • Disseminate knowledge to veterinarians and other constituencies needing the services of the College.
  • Prepare the next generation of educators and researchers through its graduate, internship, and residency programs.
  • Work synergistically with UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and the UF Academic Health Center to advance biomedical and agricultural knowledge important to veterinary medicine.

• College of Public Health and Health Professions

  The University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions has established a new educational model that focuses on the integration of public health problem-solving and individual patient care.

  The college’s mission is to preserve, promote and improve the health and well-being of populations, communities and individuals. To fulfill this mission, we foster collaborations among public health and the health professions in education, research and service.

• College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS)

  Overview

  The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) administers the degree programs of the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). IFAS is a federal-state-county partnership dedicated to developing knowledge in agriculture, human and natural resources, and the life sciences, and enhancing and sustaining the quality of human life by making that information accessible.

  Mission

  The mission of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences is to deliver unsurpassed educational programs that prepare students to address the world's critical challenges related to agriculture, food systems, human wellbeing, natural resources and sustainable communities.

  Core Values

  Grounded in the land-grant ideals of access, innovation and relevance, CALS promotes these core values in pursuit of its mission:

  • Integrity
  • Diversity
  • Collaboration
  • Service

  Vision

  Be the premier land-grant college of agriculture and related sciences

  We will be known for excellence and innovation in teaching and for the readiness of our graduates for leadership. We will be the destination of choice for students seeking academic programs in agriculture, natural resources and related sciences and the pre-eminent source of talent for employers, graduate programs and professional schools.

• College of Dentistry

  The college is nationally recognized for its oral health research enterprise, emphasizing infectious diseases in dentistry, bone biology, pain and neurosciences, and translational research to improve clinical and dental care.

  UF College of Dentistry has a Statewide Network for Community Oral Health with locations throughout Florida. In addition to the UF-owned dental centers in Gainesville, Hialeah, Naples and St. Petersburg, the college’s dental students perform community rotations and provide care in affiliated dental centers as part of their education. Almost all of the patients treated live at or below 200% of the federal poverty limit.

• College of Education

  The University of Florida College of Education, founded in 1906, consistently ranks among the top 30 public education schools in the elite Association of American Universities.The college’s distinguished professors and their graduate students aggressively pursue vital, interdisciplinary research that is helping to transform teaching and learning, education policy, and leadership in all education disciplines. By partnering with public schools and communities across the state and beyond, UF education faculty engage in novel scholarship and research activities that enhance “whole school“ improvement, student achievement, early-childhood readiness, teacher preparation and retention, and classroom technology advances. COE faculty in 2015 held research grants worth an all-time high of $86 million, a 16 percent increase over the previous year.

• College of the Arts

  The University of Florida College of the Arts was developed from the School of Architecture, which was established in 1925. In 1975, the previous College of Architecture and Fine Arts was divided into two colleges, the College of Architecture and the College of Fine Arts. In 2010, the College of Fine Arts celebrated its 35th anniversary. In May 2014 the college changed its name, becoming the College of the Arts.

  Many arts programs, however, have flourished since UF’s earliest days. The UF Band Program got its start in 1913, and the Men's Glee Club was founded in 1907. The painting and drawing programs began in 1929 and became the basis for the School of Art and Art History. 

• College of Health and Human Performance (College of HHP)

  HHP’s three departments and three research centers place the college in a position to influence and improve an array of societal problems and challenges.

  College of HHP academic departments:

  • Applied Physiology and Kinesiology (APK)
  • Health Education and Behavior (HEB)
  • Tourism Recreation and Sport Management (TRSM)

  College of HHP research centers:

  • Center for Digital Health and Wellness
  • Center for Exercise Science
  • Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute

  Our scientists are performing groundbreaking research in the mysteries of addictive behavior and substance abuse. They are investigating America’s obesity epidemic from all perspectives, and inquiring how to prevent adolescents from abusing substances. Researchers are studying beneficial therapy techniques for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and cardiovascular disorders.

  HHP is proud that its students graduate with the tools, knowledge and confidence to fulfill their dreams – and become remarkable assets to their communities. Our alumni choose careers as therapists, clinicians, scientists, recreation and event managers, tourism professionals and physicians. Each helps to contribute to a healthier world for tomorrow.

• College of Nursing

  The College of Nursing aspires to be a model of excellence, recognized nationally and internationally, for innovative education, dynamic programs of research, and creative approaches to practice. We are committed to preparing nurses for leadership as clinicians, scientists and educators who reflect and care for a diverse society; foster interdisciplinary collaboration; and improve the health of individuals, families and communities.

  As part of the University of Florida , the College of Nursing has all the resources of the state’s flagship university at their fingertips, including a top-notch interdisciplinary Health Science Center and centers and institutes like the Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute of UF , the UF Genetics Institute, the UF Health Cancer Center, and the UF Institute on Aging.

  The nursing education programs offered at UF address gaps in the health care system, as do the College’s innovations in technological resources and initiatives linking students to diverse and international populations. The College of Nursing has a history of pioneering leadership in nursing education, having offered Florida ‘s first nurse practitioner programs, and first PhD in Nursing Science program.

  Health care delivery networks associated with UF provide access to an integrated system of community hospitals and clinics, including statewide home health care, a major veterans’ health system and the Shands Healthcare system.

  Faculty members set a standard for excellence when it comes to innovative education, dynamic research and quality patient care.

• College of Pharmacy

  The oldest college in the UF Health Science Center, UF College of Pharmacy was established in 1923. Today, the college is ranked among the top colleges and schools of pharmacy in the nation. In keeping with the University of Florida mission, the college is dedicated to excellence in pharmacy research, service, and educational programs enhanced through online technologies.

  The college prepares students who seek academic training and degrees in professional practice and graduate research areas. The doctor of pharmacy degree is offered to students in four Florida cities, and also to working pharmacists with bachelor’s degrees across the United States.

  The college is accredited through the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education, the national agency for the accreditation of professional degree programs in pharmacy and providers of continuing pharmacy education.

The University of Florida (UF) is a public land-grant research university located in Gainesville, Florida. It was founded in 1853 and is one of the oldest universities in the state. The university traces its origins to the East Florida Seminary, which was established in Ocala. In 1905, the Buckman Act consolidated several institutions into the University of the State of Florida, which was later renamed the University of Florida in 1909.

UF moved to its current campus in Gainesville in 1906. The university grew rapidly in the 20th century, expanding its academic programs and research initiatives. It became coeducational in 1947, allowing women to enroll for the first time. Over the years, UF has developed into one of the leading public universities in the United States, known for its strong academic programs, research contributions, and athletic achievements.

The university is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and is classified as an R1 research institution, indicating very high research activity. UF has made significant contributions in fields such as agriculture, engineering, medicine, and business. It is also home to the Florida Gators, whose athletic teams have won multiple national championships in various sports.

Today, the University of Florida continues to grow, with a student population exceeding 50,000. It remains committed to academic excellence, innovation, and public service, making it one of the top-ranked universities in the United States.

The University of Florida (UF) is a highly competitive institution, and the admission process is selective. Prospective students must meet several academic and non-academic requirements to be considered for admission.

Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

For first-year applicants, UF requires a completed application through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. Students must submit a non-refundable application fee or a fee waiver request.

Academic requirements include a strong high school GPA, typically above 3.7 on a 4.0 scale, and a rigorous course load that includes advanced coursework such as AP, IB, AICE, or dual enrollment classes. Competitive applicants usually rank in the top 10% of their graduating class.

Standardized test scores are optional for the 2024 admissions cycle, but students may submit SAT or ACT scores if they believe it strengthens their application. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1300-1470 or an ACT score between 29-33.

Applicants must also submit a personal essay as part of their application. The essay should highlight their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal experiences. Letters of recommendation are not required but may be submitted optionally.

Transfer Admissions Requirements

Transfer applicants must have completed at least 60 transferable college credits or an Associate of Arts (AA) degree from a Florida public college. A minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0 is required, though competitive programs may have higher GPA expectations. Some majors have specific prerequisite courses that must be completed before transferring.

Graduate Admissions Requirements

Graduate applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is typically required. Most programs require GRE, GMAT, or other standardized test scores, though some may waive this requirement. Applicants must submit a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a resume or CV. Some programs may also require an interview.

International Student Requirements

International students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 80 iBT), IELTS (minimum 6.0), or Duolingo (minimum 110). They must also provide certified translations of academic transcripts and proof of financial support.

Application Deadlines

For undergraduate admissions, the priority deadline for freshman applications is November 1, with decisions typically released in February. Transfer and graduate program deadlines vary by department.

The University of Florida seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to their community. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as UF considers a holistic review of each applicant.

The University of Florida (UF) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. Accreditation by SACSCOC ensures that the university meets high standards of quality and integrity in education, administration, and student services. The accreditation process involves rigorous evaluation and continuous improvement to maintain compliance with established academic and institutional standards.

In addition to institutional accreditation, many of UF’s individual programs hold specialized accreditations from professional organizations. For example, the Warrington College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is a globally recognized accreditation for business schools. The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that its engineering programs meet industry and academic standards.

The College of Education at UF is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which evaluates teacher preparation programs. The Levin College of Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), allowing its graduates to sit for the bar exam in any U.S. jurisdiction. The College of Medicine is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), which ensures that medical education programs meet national standards.

Accreditation is an essential aspect of higher education, as it assures students, employers, and other institutions that the University of Florida provides a high-quality education. It also allows UF students to qualify for federal financial aid and ensures that their degrees are recognized by employers and other academic institutions. The university undergoes periodic reviews by SACSCOC and other accrediting bodies to maintain its accreditation status.

The University of Florida’s commitment to accreditation reflects its dedication to academic excellence, continuous improvement, and student success. By maintaining accreditation from SACSCOC and various specialized accrediting agencies, UF ensures that its programs remain competitive and relevant in an evolving educational landscape.

The University of Florida (UF) offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for academic, social, and personal growth. Located in Gainesville, Florida, UF provides a dynamic campus environment with a wide range of activities, organizations, and events that cater to diverse interests.

One of the key aspects of student life at UF is its extensive selection of student organizations. With over 1,000 clubs and organizations, students can find groups related to academics, culture, sports, arts, and community service. The Student Government plays a significant role in organizing events and representing student interests.

UF is also known for its strong athletic culture. The Florida Gators, the university’s sports teams, compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference (SEC). Football games at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, also known as "The Swamp," are a major highlight of student life, drawing thousands of fans. Other sports, such as basketball, baseball, and gymnastics, also have strong followings.

The campus offers various recreational facilities, including fitness centers, swimming pools, and outdoor adventure programs. The Southwest Recreation Center and Student Recreation & Fitness Center provide students with access to state-of-the-art gym equipment, group fitness classes, and intramural sports leagues.

UF also emphasizes academic excellence and career development. The university provides numerous resources, such as tutoring centers, career counseling, and internship opportunities. The Career Connections Center helps students with job placements, resume building, and networking events.

Housing options at UF include on-campus dormitories, apartments, and off-campus housing. Living on campus allows students to engage in residential programs, social events, and academic support services. The university also offers dining halls and food courts with a variety of meal options.

Cultural and social events are an integral part of student life. UF hosts concerts, guest lectures, theater performances, and festivals throughout the year. The Reitz Union serves as a central hub for student activities, providing spaces for meetings, entertainment, and dining.

Community service and leadership opportunities are also available through programs like Gators Volunteer and leadership development workshops. Students can participate in service-learning projects, mentorship programs, and outreach initiatives.

Overall, student life at the University of Florida is diverse and engaging, offering students numerous ways to get involved, build connections, and enhance their college experience.

The University of Florida (UF) offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students beyond lectures and seminars. These resources are designed to enhance academic success, personal well-being, and overall student experience.

One of the key facilities available to students is the UF Libraries system, which includes multiple libraries such as the George A. Smathers Libraries. These libraries provide access to extensive research materials, study spaces, and technology resources. Additionally, students can use tutoring and writing assistance services to improve their academic performance.

For health and wellness, UF provides the Student Health Care Center, which offers medical services, mental health counseling, and wellness programs. The Counseling and Wellness Center provides mental health support, including individual and group therapy sessions. Recreational facilities such as the Southwest Recreation Center and Student Recreation & Fitness Center offer gym equipment, fitness classes, and sports courts to promote physical well-being.

Housing and dining services are also available to students. UF offers on-campus housing options, including residence halls and apartment-style living. Dining services provide meal plans and various dining locations across campus, catering to different dietary needs.

Career development is another important aspect of student life at UF. The Career Connections Center offers career counseling, resume workshops, job fairs, and internship opportunities to help students prepare for their future careers. Additionally, UF provides student organizations and leadership programs that allow students to engage in extracurricular activities, develop leadership skills, and build professional networks.

Transportation services at UF include campus buses, bike-sharing programs, and parking facilities to ensure convenient mobility for students. The university also offers disability resources through the Disability Resource Center, which provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities.

Overall, the University of Florida provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities to support students in their academic, personal, and professional development.

The University of Florida (UF) is one of the top public universities in the United States, offering a world-class education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life. Here are a few reasons why students should choose UF:

1. Academic Excellence – UF consistently ranks among the top public universities in the U.S. It offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, ensuring students receive a high-quality education.

2. Research Opportunities – As a leading research institution, UF provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to work on groundbreaking research projects in fields such as medicine, engineering, and environmental science.

3. Affordable Tuition – UF offers competitive tuition rates, especially for in-state students, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality education at an affordable cost. Additionally, the university provides numerous scholarships and financial aid options.

4. Strong Alumni Network – UF has a vast and influential alumni network, including leaders in business, politics, and entertainment. This network provides students with valuable connections and career opportunities after graduation.

5. Campus Life and Athletics – The university boasts a lively campus with over 1,000 student organizations, cultural events, and recreational activities. UF is also known for its strong athletic programs, particularly its football team, the Florida Gators, which competes in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference (SEC).

6. Location and Climate – Located in Gainesville, Florida, UF offers a beautiful campus with warm weather year-round. The city provides a welcoming college-town atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities, restaurants, and entertainment options.

7. Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability – UF is dedicated to sustainability and innovation, with initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact and fostering technological advancements.

With its strong academic reputation, research opportunities, and vibrant student life, the University of Florida is an excellent choice for students looking to excel in their education and future careers.