About

About University of South Florida

high research activityhealth sciences focusselective admissionslarge public university

University of South Florida is a public research university in Tampa, FL, known for its high research activity, health sciences focus, and selective admissions. With an acceptance rate of 44%, USF is moderately selective, typically enrolling around 6,800 students each year. Admitted students typically score between 1130–1320 on the SAT and 24–29 on the ACT. USF offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $12,180 per year; the sticker price of $35,092 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

University of South Florida acceptance rate and admitted student profile

moderately selective

44%
Overall Accept Rate
1225
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1130 – 1320

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to University of South Florida

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Test Score Strategy
USF requires test scores and is moderately selective at 44%, so aim to get your SAT above 1200 or ACT above 25 to be competitive. Retaking the test to clear those benchmarks can meaningfully strengthen your application.
Application Strategy
Apply to the USF Honors College at the same time as your general application, since it uses the same portal and requires no separate application fee. Honors students get priority registration, dedicated advising, and access to research funding that can set you apart after graduation.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What University of South Florida actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$35k/yr$4.1k
30k-48k~$35k/yr$5.4k
48k-75k~$35k/yr$9.3k
75k-110k~$35k/yr$15.2k
110k+~$35k/yr$18.5k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

75%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$48k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
22:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
34,921
Undergrad Enrollment
University of South Florida Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch