University of South Florida: Admissions, Courses, Acceptance Rate, Scholarship, & Housing Guide
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Thinking about studying in a place where amazing opportunities are just around the corner? Then the University of South Florida (USF) might just be your perfect match in 2025! Located across three vibrant campuses — Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee — USF welcomes students from 140+ countries and has a lively student body of over 48,700 learners.
Whether you’re into business, engineering, health sciences, or arts, USF offers more than 288 professional courses designed to turn your passions into a successful career. And the best part? 90% of USF graduates find jobs within just 90 days of graduation, getting hired by top companies like Citi, Verizon, JPMorgan Chase, and General Motors! Let’s dive into all the exciting details you need to know about the University of South Florida (USF)!
Why Should You Choose the University of South Florida in 2025?
If you’re looking for a place where you can get a great education, meet students from around the world, and enjoy sunny weather all year round, the University of South Florida (USF) is a perfect choice for 2025! Founded in 1956, USF has grown into a major research university with a huge 1,646-acre campus spread across Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee. It welcomes students from over 140 countries and offers a friendly, supportive environment where everyone can feel at home.
The best part? 90% of USF graduates find jobs within 90 days after graduation, with top companies like Citi, Verizon, JPMorgan Chase, Raymond James, and General Motors hiring from the university. USF is ranked #621–630 in the QS World University Rankings 2025, showing its strong reputation worldwide. Following are the University of South Florida key highlights:
| Category | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1956 |
| Campus Size | 1,646 acres |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | #621-630 |
| Campus Locations | Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee |
| Placement Rate | 90% of graduates securing employment within 90 days of graduation. |
| Top Recruiters | Citi, Verizon, JPMorgan Chase, Raymond James, and General Motors |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Master of Science (MS) programs, MBA/PGDM, and Bachelor of Science (BSc) programs. Specific popular courses within these categories include Computer Science, Business, and Engineering. |
| English Language Exam Required | IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE |
| Acceptance Rate | ~41% |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | $6,410 – $28,658 |
| Website | www.usf.edu |
Which Courses Are Popular at University of South Florida in 2025 and What Are Their Fees and Eligibility?
When it comes to studying at University of South Florida (USF) in 2025, you’re going to have plenty of options to choose from! The university offers over 288 professional courses at undergraduate and graduate levels, covering everything from Hospitality and Travel to Nursing, Law, and Design.
No matter if you’re passionate about Human Resources, Project Management, Computer Science, or Intellectual Property Law, there’s a program ready for you at USF. Plus, the first-year tuition fees for international students are quite affordable as well, ranging from USD 7,932 to USD 39,473 (around INR 6.7 lakh to 33.6 lakh). Let’s take a closer look at the University of South Florida (USF) popular courses, fees, and eligibility below:
| Course Name | 1st Year Tuition Fees (USD) | Eligibility Criteria & English Language Exam Required |
| BBA | ~$17,324 | High school diploma, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, Duolingo 105+ |
| B.Sc. | ~$17,324 | High school diploma, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+ |
| B.E./B.Tech | ~$17,324 | High school diploma, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, PTE 53+ |
| B.A. | ~$17,324 | High school diploma, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, Duolingo 110+ |
| BFA | ~$17,324 | High school diploma, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, PTE 53+ |
| MBA | ~$16,802 | UG Degree, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, GMAT optional |
| M.S. | ~$15,864 – ~$16,450 | UG Degree, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, PTE 53+ |
| M.A. | ~$15,864 – ~$23,000 | UG Degree, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, Duolingo 110+ |
| MPH | ~$16,000 – ~$18,000 | UG Degree, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, PTE 53+ |
| LLM | ~$14,000 | UG Law Degree, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+ |
| Executive MBA | ~$22,000 | UG Degree, GMAT or GRE, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, PTE 53+ |
| M.Arch | ~$21,000 – ~$26,000 | UG Degree, Portfolio, IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+, GRE optional |
Where Does University of South Florida Rank in 2025?
If you’re wondering whether the University of South Florida (USF) is a good choice for 2025, here’s some exciting news — it’s not just good, it’s one of the best! USF consistently ranks among the top public universities in the U.S. and around the world. In 2025, it holds the #45 spot among public universities and ranks #91 among all public and private universities according to U.S. News & World Report.
USF also shines globally, standing strong in the QS World University Rankings (#621–630) and ranked #45 among U.S. public universities by Times Higher Education (THE). Plus, it’s recognized as the “Best Value University” in Florida, making it a smart and affordable choice for international students! Below are the key details of University of South Florida rankings:
| Ranking Body | Category | 2025 Rank |
| U.S. News & World Report | National Universities (USA) | #89 |
| Top Public Schools (USA) | #45 | |
| Best Value Schools | #57 | |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | #16 | |
| QS World University Rankings | Global Ranking | #621–630 |
| Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings | Among U.S. Public Institutions | #45 |
| Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) | Best U.S. Public Colleges and Universities | #49 |
| Washington Monthly | National Universities (Public Institutions) | #22 |
| National Universities (All Institutions) | #47 | |
| U.S. News & World Report | Best Colleges for Veterans | #57 |
| Forbes | America’s Top Public Colleges | Top 50 |
How Competitive Is the Acceptance Rate at University of South Florida in 2025?
If you’re thinking about applying to the University of South Florida (USF) in 2025, here’s some good news — while it’s selective, it’s still very achievable with a strong academic record! USF has an acceptance rate of around 41%, meaning about 41 out of every 100 applicants get admitted. This makes it a moderately competitive university, great for motivated students who have strong academic profiles.
The middle 50% of admitted students usually have SAT scores between 1140 and 1330 or ACT scores between 24 and 29. Admissions officials place a lot of importance on your high school GPA (the average is a strong 4.23 GPA for the incoming freshman class!). Here’s a quick look at the University of South Florida’s acceptance rate and admission details for 2025:
| Category | Details (2025 Admissions Cycle) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~41% |
| Average SAT Score Range (Middle 50%) | 1140–1330 |
| Average ACT Score Range (Middle 50%) | 24–29 |
| Average High School GPA (Freshman Profile) | 4.23 |
| Application Fee | $30 |
| High School Class Rank Considered? | Yes (if available) |
| Letters of Recommendation Required? | No |
| Admissions Priority Factor | GPA is very important |
Which Scholarships Can International Students Apply for at University of South Florida in 2025?
If you’re planning to study at the University of South Florida (USF) in 2025, here’s some great news — there are plenty of scholarships to help make your dream more affordable! USF offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international students, and the best part is — you don’t need a separate application. Just submit your complete application (including documents and fees) by January 15, 2025, and you’ll be automatically considered.
From the Green & Gold Waiver Awards to special support for transfer students and global learning travelers, USF gives international students many opportunities to win funding. Some scholarships offer out-of-state tuition waivers, while others provide extra financial support for study abroad trips. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the scholarships you can apply for at University of South Florida (USF) in 2025:
| Scholarship Name | Description | Reward |
| USF Merit-Based Scholarships | Automatically awarded based on academic performance (GPA, SAT/ACT scores). | Varies; partial to full tuition support (up to ~$16,000/year) |
| Green & Gold Presidential Waiver Award | Merit-based out-of-state tuition reduction for top academic performers. | Covers significant portion of non-resident tuition (~$15,000/year) |
| Green & Gold Directors Waiver Award | For strong academic performers slightly below Presidential Award tier. | Moderate reduction in out-of-state tuition (~$11,000/year) |
| Green & Gold Scholars Waiver Award | Entry-level merit-based tuition waiver for good academic achievers. | Partial tuition reduction (~$6,000–$8,000/year) |
| USF International Transfer Student Scholarship | Special award for international students transferring to USF from another institution. | $2,000–$4,000/year |
| USF Global Learning Scholarship Fund | Funding support for students participating in USF-sponsored study abroad programs. | $500–$2,000 for global learning trips |
Where Can You Stay While Studying at University of South Florida in 2025?
Finding the perfect place to live is a huge part of your adventure at the University of South Florida (USF) — and luckily, there are tons of great options to match every budget, lifestyle, and preference! Home to over 48,700 students from 146+ countries, USF offers a truly vibrant and welcoming living experience. Whether you want to live steps away from your classes or explore life a little further out in Tampa, you’ll find accommodation that fits your needs perfectly.
Living on campus is super convenient, especially for first-year students, and it includes everything from meal plans to free Wi-Fi. On the other hand, off-campus living gives you a chance to experience Tampa’s amazing food, arts, and cultural scene while still staying connected to the university community. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to housing costs and lifestyle options at USF in 2025:
On-Campus Housing at University of South Florida
Choosing to live on campus means you’re just a short walk from classrooms, libraries, student centers, and recreational facilities. USF guarantees on-campus housing for all first-year students who complete their housing application by the deadline, which means you’ll have a secured place right in the heart of student life. Some important details to know about on-campus student accommodation at University of South Florida:
- Around 6,300 students live in USF’s on-campus residential halls.
- Housing options include traditional dorms, suite-style rooms, and apartment-style living.
- On-campus rent includes electricity, water, internet, air conditioning, heating, and trash services — no hidden charges!
- Safety is a priority, with 24/7 campus security and secure access to all residence halls.
Following is the estimated monthly rent for on-campus housing at University of South Florida according to various campuses:
| Campus Location | Room Type | Estimated Monthly Rent (USD) |
| Tampa Campus | Traditional Double | ~$812.50 |
| Traditional Single | ~$1,087.50 | |
| Apartment Double | ~$1,135 | |
| Apartment Single | ~$1,390 | |
| St. Petersburg Campus | Double Suite | ~$1,224 |
| Triple Suite | ~$794 | |
| Sarasota-Manatee Campus | Suite (Double) | ~$1,355 |
| 4 Bed / 2 Bath Apartment (Single) | ~$1,572.75 | |
| 2 Bed / 1 Bath Apartment (Single) | ~$1,722.25 |
Off-Campus Housing at University of South Florida
If you’re looking for a little more independence, freedom to choose your own space, and a deeper dive into Tampa’s lively neighborhoods, off-campus housing might be perfect for you! Areas like North Tampa, University Square, and Uptown Tampa are popular with students, offering easy access to campus (within 10-15 minutes), grocery stores, and public transport. Following are the key details of off-campus student accommodation at University of South Florida:
- Over 60% of upper-year and graduate students live off-campus.
- Most off-campus rentals offer 12-month leases, and many are student-friendly with shuttle service to campus.
- Students often share apartments to cut costs — shared apartments can be 40% cheaper than renting a private studio!
- Make sure to budget for additional costs like electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and transportation (approx. $100–$150 extra per month).
- Some of the top student accommodation near University of South Florida: The Province, Avalon Heights, Venue at North Campus and Station 42.
Following is the estimated monthly rent for off-campus housing near University of South Florida according to various types of accommodations:
| Accommodation Type | Estimated Monthly Rent (USD) |
| Shared Room | $500 – $700 |
| Private Room in Shared Apartment | $700 – $1,000 |
| Studio Apartment | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| One-Bedroom Apartment | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Two-Bedroom Apartment | $1,800 – $2,400 |
| Three-Bedroom Apartment | $2,400 – $3,000 |
Conclusion
Choosing the University of South Florida means saying yes to a bright future full of endless possibilities! From highly ranked programs and generous scholarships to flexible housing options and a lively student community, USF has everything you need to thrive — academically, socially, and professionally. And when it’s time to find your new home in Tampa, University Living is here to make your search for student accommodation easy, safe, and completely hassle-free! Start your USF journey today — study smart, live smart, and shine bright at the University of South Florida!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I choose the University of South Florida in 2025?
The University of South Florida (USF) is a top choice because it offers 288+ professional courses, a vibrant international student community from 140+ countries, and a 90% placement rate within 90 days of graduation. Plus, you’ll study in sunny Florida across campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee!
What is the University of South Florida acceptance rate for 2025?
The University of South Florida acceptance rate for 2025 is around 41%, making it moderately selective. Students with strong GPAs, SAT scores between 1140–1330, or ACT scores between 24–29 have a great chance of admission.
Which courses are popular at University of South Florida for international students?
Some of the most popular University of South Florida courses in 2025 include Business Administration, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Health Sciences, and Public Health — all offering strong career prospects globally.
What is the tuition fee for international students at University of South Florida?
The annual tuition fees for international students at USF range from around $6,410 to $28,658 depending on the program. First-year tuition for popular programs like BBA and BSc is approximately $17,324.
How is University of South Florida ranked globally and nationally in 2025?
In 2025, the University of South Florida ranks #89 among national universities (U.S. News), #45 among public universities, and #621–630 globally in the QS World University Rankings. It’s also recognized as a “Best Value School” in Florida!
Are there scholarships available for international students at University of South Florida?
Yes! USF offers several merit-based scholarships for international students, such as the Green & Gold Waiver Awards, USF International Transfer Scholarship, and Global Learning Scholarship Fund — with rewards ranging from $500 to up to $16,000 per year.
