USF acceptance rate and admissions have been discussed in this article including comprehensive information on the University of South Florida rankings, tuition, and application process.
The University of South Florida is a high-performing international research university committed to student success.
USF is focused on developing bold ideas and using its research resources to create innovative solutions for our global community. USF offers more than 105 graduate programs and 44 doctoral programs, teaching more than 10,000 graduate students from more than 130 different countries.
Dedicated to developing future generations of scholars, researchers and academic leaders, USF is an exciting and rewarding place for graduate study.
Stay with us to find out all about the University of South Florida’s acceptance rate for undergraduate and transfer admission with more on international student’s admission requirements.
About the University of South Florida
Established in 1956, the University of South Florida or USF is a public research institution in Tampa, Florida. USF’s main campus in Tampa spans 1,562 acres with other campuses in Sarasota and St. Petersburgh.
USF is a member of the State University System of Florida and also a member of the Association of American Universities. The University of South Florida offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral-level degree programs through its 14 colleges.
Currently, more than 49,000 undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled at USF. They come from all 50 states of the U.S. (including al five U.S Territories and Washington D.C.) and over 140 countries.
USF Acceptance Rate
USF acceptance rate is 49% on the Main Campus. The University of South Florida ranks 11th in Florida with the lowest acceptance rate. USF Main Campus is categorised as more competitive with a good chance of accepting qualified applicants. Last year, 19,054 out of 38,696 applicants were accepted.
The school has very high SAT and ACT admission requirements, and typically students who get accepted into the school were in the top 26% of test-takers (SAT 1160/1320 and ACT 25/30).
The admission information of USF Main Campus shows that the school typically attracts and admits ”A” average students who have a GPA of around 4.01. Most newly admitted students graduate in the top quarter of high school. 30% of those accepted end up attending USF.
How do acceptance rates at USF Main campus compare with other Close Schools?
USF’s acceptance rate is 19% lower than the national average which is 56.7%. Below are the schools around the University of South Florida and their acceptance rate:
| School | Acceptance Rate |
| Saint Leo University | 72.1% |
| University of Central Florida | 44.4% |
| University of Florida | 36.6% |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide | 62.0% |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | 66.7% |
Also Read: 15 Best Schools In Florida For Business
Admission to the University of South Florida
the Main Campus at USF acceptance rate shows that the school admits less than half of its applicants and has a selective admissions process. If your SAT/ACT scores and GPA are within the school average, you have a good chance of getting in.
In addition to exam scores and grades, the selection board checks whether you have completed a sufficient number of college preparatory courses.
The university requires at least four units in English and mathematics, three in social and natural science, two in foreign languages and two elective units.
If you exceed these minimum requirements, you will be more competitive and your academic record will include challenging AP, IB, honours and dual courses.
Also, if your high school grades trend is upward and not downward then you will be viewed by the admission board positively.
SAT Requirements
USF Main Campus acceptance rate is categorised as more selective and the school typically wants applicants to be in the top 31% of SAT test-takers. The school continuously lowers the cumulative SAT score to 1160 out of 1600, to make admission very possible.
The estimated average cumulative SAT score for admitted freshmen is 1240/1600. University of South Florida Main Campus’s acceptance rate is more competitive, and the school has the highest average cumulative SAT score in Florida and 178th nationally.
Competitive SAT scores are critical because 69% of applicants submit SAT scores to USF.
Average SAT Table
| SAT Reading 25th | 590 |
| SAT Math 25th | 570 |
| SAT Composite 25th | 1160 |
| SAT Reading 75th | 660 |
| SAT Math 75th | 660 |
| SAT Composite 75th | 1320 |
| Average SAT Score | 1240 |
ACT Requirements
Admissions data shows that the Main Campus at the University of South Florida acceptance rate is more selective and the Main Campus regularly admits students with ACT scores of 25 or higher. Students who end up getting in typically submit ACT scores among the 22 percent of test-takers in the US..
Applicants with an ACT essay score of 28 or higher should be at the top of the list of applicants, and students who happen to have SAT scores of up to 30 or more have a very good chance of being offered admission.
The school ranks sixth in Florida and 175th in the United States, with the highest average overall ACT score. Thirty-one percent of applicants sent their ACT scores to USF Main Campus during application.
Average SAT Table
| ACT Reading 25th | 24 |
| ACT Math 25th | 23 |
| ACT Composite 25th | 25 |
| ACT Reading 75th | 31 |
| ACT Math 75th | 28 |
| ACT Composite 75th | 30 |
| Average ACT Score | 27 |
Also Read: 15 Best Schools In Florida For Engineering
Average GPA Requirements
Applicants need exceptionally good grades to get into the University of South Florida as the acceptance rate is more selective. The average GPA for incoming high school freshmen at USF’s main campus is 4.01 on a 4.0 scale, indicating most ”A” students are usually accepted into USF and end up attending.
The school has the highest GPA and is ranked No. 4 in Florida. Even with a competitive GPA, getting into USF’s main campus can be problematic because the school rejects more applicants than it accepts.
How to Apply to the University of South Florida
Filling out a college application can bring confusion and frustration, which is why we want to help you will the information that will make the USF application process as easy as possible.
Whether you’ve already started your application or not, you can apply to USF by following these simple instructions to simplify the process.
Fill out the application
The school is optimistic to know you better and see how you fit into the school community. Complete and submit the USF application providing the necessary information. To get started, log in to the application portal.
Submit the Required Documents that are Missing
In order to complete the application, the school need to have all the necessary documents. This entry requirement usually takes longer to complete, so it’s best to start collecting these materials as early as possible.
Official Transcripts
High school students must request that their high school submit official transcripts electronically to USF. If your high school is unable to issue official grades electronically, please send them to the following address:
University of South Florida
Office of Admissions
4202 E Fowler Ave, SVC 1036
Tampa, FL 33620
GED/Homeschool Students
GED students must request official transcripts via the GED Testing Services.
If you do not have the official transcripts, homeschooled students must complete the USF Home School Transcript Template.
Official SAT or ACT scores
- The school require that you request an official SAT from the College Board. USF school code is 5828.
- The school require that you request that your official ACT scores be sent from ACT, Inc. USF school code is 0761.
Immunization Compliance
All freshmen at USF must sign a mandatory Medical History Immunization Form, and be able to provide proof that they have received two MMR shots or the measles (Rubeola) and German Measles (rubella) vaccination since their first birthday.
Furthermore, the University of South Florida requires that you must provide proof of vaccination against meningitis and hepatitis B or provide a waiver document duly signed for both vaccines.
Students applying to USF with an international address are also required to complete a TB screening.
You can go to your OASIS account for instructions on requirements and to check your vaccination status.
Check the status of your application
After you provided all the necessary materials, you should keep track of your position in the admission process to avoid obstacles.
You can see which material has been received by the admission board, which material was missing, if there is new information and when admission decisions will be published.
You can check the status of your application as follows:
- Get your NET ID activated
- Use your Net ID and password to sign into your myUSF
- Log in to the OASIS service (Online Access Student Information System)
- Click on Admissions
- Click on “Check My Application Status”.
Also Read: What are the 12 Public Universities in Florida?
Video Guide for the University of South Florida Admission Application
The video below will help you further understand the application process to USF. Further information about the application process for international and domestic students can be found as you continue to read this article.
Dates and Deadlines
Keep these important dates and deadlines in mind when completing your USF application.
- November 1 – priority application period
- January 15 – application date for entrance scholarships.
- March 1 – the application period ends
USF Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements for International Students
USF acceptance rate for international students is not separate from that of domestic students. The application process takes almost the same route except for the fact that international students will have to submit additional documents like proof of English Proficiency and more.
There are more than 5,000 international students who are coming from 145+ countries studying at USF, contributing to the excellent reputation of the school as a school that welcomes international students and one of the schools with the most diverse student body in the US.
How to apply as an international student
1. Fill out the online application.
2. Pay a $30 non-refundable application fee.
3. Submit to USF original or certified copies of academic transcripts, grades, diplomas or certificates, state standardized test scores, mark sheets or other academic coursework.
- Includes certified English translations of all non-English documents. If you need help translating documents into English, the school recommend using the American Translators Association to find a translator who has received certification.
- • The school may accept digital copies of academic records at the high school and post-secondary levels of studies from your school officials directly to international@usf.edu
Or you mail your transcripts to
University of South Florida
Office of Admissions
4202 E. Fowler Avenue, SVC 1036
Tampa, FL 33620
United States
4. Submit official SAT or ACT scores to USF. If you are submitting ACT scores, you are to send scores for the Writing section as required by the Florida Board of Governors.
- • Request official SAT scores from the College Board. USF school code for SAT is 5828.
- • Request official ACT scores from ACT, Inc. USF school code for ACT is 0761.
5. Submit your official IELTS, TOEFL, or PTEA scores to the University of South Florida (required for non-English speaking students only). Bear in mind that TOEFL/IELTS scores are valid for two years from starting from when the exam was first taken.
- Request official IELTS scores directly from the testing agency.
- Request official TOEFL scores directly from ETS. USF code is 5828.
- Request official PTEA scores directly from Pearson.
If you are required to submit these English language tests sores, then applicants must achieve the following minimum scores:
- TOEFL – 79
- IELTS – 6.5
- PTEA – 53
- Duolingo 105
- SAT – 24 (Reading), 25 (Writing and Language)
ACT – 17 (English), 19 (Reading)
Also Read: 15 Best Schools In Florida for Computer Science
HideAcademic Credentials Requirements
If you completed your high school education outside of the United States, USF requires that you provide documentation equivalent to a U.S. high school graduation. Typically, the completion of youth education includes 12-13 years of study and the awarding of a diploma or high school certificate. Include academic transcripts and test scores for all other work.
USF Transfer Acceptance Rate and Application
At USF, 59.0% of the student body are students who entered the school via transfer admissions.
5842 students are admitted to the school. Therefore, the USF transfer acceptance rate is approximately 63%.
There is something that makes USF one of the most popular destinations in the United States for transfer students. Awesome place. Over 200 prestigious academic programs. Modern equipment and desirable amenities. One of the lowest tuition fees in the country.
If it is in your interest to become a USF Bull from your former school, we’ve put together a comprehensive that will make for a smooth transfer.
1. Complete the online application
Pay a $30 application fee which is non-refundable or submit a NACAC application fee waiver
3. Submit official high school diploma to USF (lower secondary promotion only)
Request that your high school send your transcripts electronically to USF. If this option is not available, official copies should be sent to:
University of South Florida
Office of Admissions
4202 E Fowler Avenue, SVC 1036
Tampa, FL 33620
- GED students should request official transcripts via the GED testing service.
- Homeschoolers: Log into myBullsPath to fill out a transcript form for homeschooling.
4. Submit official SAT or ACT scores to USF (lower-level transfers only).
- Request official SAT scores from the College Board. USF school code for SAT is 5828.
- Request official ACT scores from ACT, Inc. USF school code for ACT is 0761.
5. Submit official transcripts from each college or university you have attended to USF.
University of Florida System electronic transcripts submitted to USF do not include courses from other colleges/universities. It is highly recommended that transcripts from previous schools be sent to USF electronically. This speeds up the processing of your application. If this option is not available, all materials must be sent to:
University of South Florida
Office of Admissions
4202 E Fowler Avenue, SVC 1036
Tampa, FL 33620
All work completed at a college or university outside the United States must be submitted with a course-by-course Foreign Credential Evaluation from a Credential Evaluation Service.
Transfer Application Deadline
| Desired Term of Entry | Application Open Date | Application Deadline | File Completion Deadline |
| Fall (August) | Sept 1 | June 15 | July 1 |
| Spring (January) | Feb 1 | November 1 | November 15 |
| Summer (May/June) | Sept 1 | March 25 | April 1 |
Also Read: 30 Highest Paid Jobs in Florida
Tuition Fees and Cost Attendance at the University of South Florida
Below is a piece of detailed information about the tuition and cost of attendance for instant and out-of-state students
State Tuition
Florida residents pay a total of $23,866 per year for full-time education at USF’s main campus. This fee includes $4,559 for tuition, $12,256 for room and board, $1,100 for books and supplies, and $1,851 for other expenses.
| Fee | Cost |
| Tuition | $4,559 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,100 |
| Other Fees | $1,851 |
| Room and Board | $12,256 |
| Other Expenses Budget | $4,100 |
Out-of-state Tuition
The total price for out-of-state residents was $34,780, 45.7% higher than for Florida residents. Tuition is $15,473, room and board is $12,256, books and supplies are $1,100, and other expenses are $1,851.
| Fee | Cost |
| Tuition | $15,473 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,100 |
| Other Fees | $1,851 |
| Room and Board | $12,256 |
| Other Expenses Budget | $4,100 |
The University of South Florida National Rankings
- #97 in National Universities (U.S. News & World Report)
- #42 in Top Public Schools
- #82 in Best Value Schools
- #563 on QS World University Rankings
- #201-250 on World University Rankinsg (Times Higher Education)
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the FAQs about the USF acceptance rate and admissions which will help provide you with more information.
Does USF Main Campus prefer SAT or ACT?
69% of students submit their SAT scores to USF’s main campus. 31% of applicants submitted their ACT scores with their application.
The University of South Florida Acceptance rate is more selective, therefore you need to submit all necessary test scores to appear more competitive.
What are my chances of getting into the University of South Florida Main Campus?
The University of South Florida’s Main Campus Acceptance rate is 49%. The entrance competition is low and the university’s entrance requirements are very high. Check that your test scores and grades are okay to compete for an admission position.
What SAT scores are required for admission to USF’s main campus?
The mid-50% of accepted new students had SAT scores between 1160 and 1320. 69% of students submit SAT scores with their application.
What ACT scores are required for admission to USF’s main campus?
The mid-50% of accepted new students have ACT scores between 25 and 30. 31% of students submitted ACT scores with their application.
Recommendations:
- Rice University Acceptance Rate, Admission, SAT/ACT, Tuition, Ranking
- University of Kansas Acceptance Rate, Admissions, SAT/ACT, GPA, Tuition, Ranking
- UNC-Chapel Hill Acceptance Rate, Admission, SAT/ACT, Tuition, Ranking
- List of Top Universities in Australia with PhD in Data Science
- 21 Top Dental schools for international students
References:
- U.S. News & World Report: University of South Florida
- Times Higher Education: University of South Florida (Tampa)
- TopUniversties: University of South Florida
