The University of Central Florida (UCF) is a large public and research-based university found in Orlando, Florida. The University of Central Florida, through its 68,000 students, is certainly one of the largest institutions in the United States in terms of enrolment. Capable of tracing its history back to the 1963 year of establishment as Florida Technological University, UCF is a huge institution with more than a hundred colleges to choose from and up to 200 majors to study. UCF is also known for it highly active research works which ranks nationwide in optics and lasers, as well as other fields. The main campus of 1,415 acres houses the newest buildings including a football stadium and a collection of high-tech academic buildings and laboratories. Our undergraduate students are not left out too; they can be part of over 600 registered clubs and organizations or our NCAA Division I sports team. Considered one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse university campuses in the nation, it is no wonder that students come to UCF from all 50 states and over 150 countries.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Established | 1968 |
| Location | Orlando, Florida, USA |
| Type | Public University |
| System | Florida State University System |
| Accredited by | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Known for | Research focus, Diverse programs, Pedestrian-friendly campus |
| Programs Offered | Over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs |
| Ranking Organization | Ranking Category | Ranking (Year) |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges) | National Universities | #124 (tie) (2024) |
| U.S. News & World Report (Specific Category) | Top Public Schools | #64 (tie) (2024) |
| QS World University Rankings | World | #593 (tie) (2024) |
| Times Higher Education (World University Rankings) | World | #401-500 (2024) |
| U.S. News & World Report (Specific Category) | Most Innovative Schools | #14 (2024) |
The acceptance rate at the University of Central Florida (UCF) is 41%. This indicates a selective admissions process, where applicants need to present a strong academic profile to be admitted.
| Category | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees (Full-time Undergraduate) | $6,388 (2023-2024) |
| Room & Board | $11,036 (2023-2024) |
| Books & Supplies | $1,200 (Estimated) |
| Other Expenses (Transportation, Personal) | $3,000 (Estimated) |
| Total Estimated Annual Cost (In-State) | ~$21,624 |
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Colleges & Schools | 13 colleges offering a wide range of programs in engineering, business, hospitality, education, medicine, and more. |
| Programs Offered | Over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs with various concentrations. |
| Research Focus | Classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity". Strong programs in optics, simulation, and modeling. |
| Learning Approach | Combines theoretical foundation with hands-on learning through internships, research opportunities, and collaborative projects. |
| Faculty | Renowned faculty with research expertise and industry experience. |
| Student Success | High graduation rates and successful placement of graduates in competitive careers. |
| National Recognition | U.S. News & World Report recognizes UCF for innovation and online programs. |
1. UCF is one of the most attended universities in U. S. with its 60,000+ students.
2. Acceptance rate is 44% with a mean of SAT scores of 1300 and 4.1-scored GPA for the entering freshmen.
3. Common fields of study cover engineering, sciences, business, and hotel management administration among others.
4. Freshman, transfer as well as other applications are admitted year-round on rolling basis.
5. Florida state colleges have priority and immigration from out of the state students, as a result, must meet the higher set of standards.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Vibrant Orlando location near theme parks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. |
| Campus | Large, pedestrian-friendly campus with modern facilities, green spaces, and a lake. |
| Housing | Diverse on-campus housing options from traditional dorms to apartments. |
| Student Activities | Over 700 student organizations for various interests, including clubs, performing arts, and Greek life. |
| Athletics | Division I athletics program with a passionate fanbase ("Knights") and various sports options. |
| Diversity | Welcoming and diverse student body with a strong sense of community. |
1. Visit www.ucf.edu/admissions, then click "Apply Now" to access the application through the website. Specify either freshmen, transfer or international students you qualify for.
2. Create your account and begin the process of filling in the details of the application. You will be giving all the information needed to be provided like personal data, academics history, extracurriculars, test scores, etc.
3. Submit your high school/college transcripts, test scores, essays if necessary and any other documents stated in the school admission requirements. Being more convenient, they can go directly on your application.
4. Apply and pay the fee for the application. For first-year students it’s $30, whereas, for others it’s objective and depends on the students program they are pursuing. By now, you have already been informed that you should pay this fee prior to your application deadline online.
5. Complete and submit the application by the application close date. Unlike the deadlines that vary based on whether you are applying in Fall, Spring or Summer term, you need to check for the deadline valid to your instance. For instance, it can contribute to your success applying early.
6. During the entire application period, try checking status of the application on the portal and if the admissions office desires further information from your side, respond to them. As a next step in the enrollment process, you will receive an official decision letter via mail soon after your application has been processed.
| Scholarship Name | Description | Possible Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Merit Scholarships | Awarded to academically talented students | High GPA, Standardized test scores (optional) |
| National Merit Scholarships | Prestigious awards for top high school seniors | National Merit Finalist status |
| Florida Bright Futures Scholarships | State-funded awards for Florida high school graduates | Residency, GPA, Test scores, Community service |
| UCF Trustee Scholarships | Highly competitive full-tuition awards | Exceptional academic record, Leadership, Essays |
| College/Program Specific Scholarships | Awards offered by individual colleges or programs | Varies depending on program (e.g., Engineering scholarships) |
| UCF LEAD Scholarships | Leadership and service-oriented awards | Demonstrated leadership, Community involvement, Essays |
