UNITED STATES · GAINESVILLE

University of Florida

public · Founded 1853 · Languages: en

In short

The University of Florida is a top-ranked public research university in Gainesville, Florida, offering over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs. It provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations and athletic programs, and offers financial aid and scholarships for both domestic and international students.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1853
Students: 49,500
International students: 6,000
Acceptance rate: 23%
Tuition (intl): €25–30k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Gainesville, United States

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

Typical living cost

€1,420/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

University of Florida · United States

Art | BFA

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art program at the University of Florida's School of Art + Art History offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for professional careers in the arts or for further academic study. The program provides instruction in studio art, design, art history, and art education. Students develop proficiency in artistic principles and practices, gain knowledge of art history, theory, and contemporary art, and hone their critical thinking and communication skills. The emphasis is on developing a personal artistic vision and mastering the technical skills required to execute it.

University of Florida · United States

Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals and Applications Certificate

The Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals and Applications Certificate is designed for undergraduate students across all majors, whether technical or non-technical. This program provides a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence, its practical applications in various fields, and the ethical and professional considerations associated with these technologies. You will engage with high-level AI tools and apply them to challenges within your specific area of study.

University of Florida · United States

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Production

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Theatre Production at the University of Florida provides comprehensive training for students aspiring to professional careers or further graduate studies in various entertainment design and production fields. The program emphasizes both academic instruction and practical, hands-on experience in a laboratory environment. Students will gain a deep understanding of the technologies and systems essential for contemporary theatre, film, and television production.

University of Florida · United States

Biomedical Engineering Graduate Programs

The J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Florida offers Master of Science (M.S.) and Master of Engineering (M.E.) programs designed to equip students with advanced skills for careers in research, product development, and leadership roles within academia and industry. These programs emphasize critical thinking and innovation to solve complex, open-ended problems. Students can customize their learning by choosing from BME Core Courses, BME Electives, and Specialization Electives, with the option to take courses across UF's 11 engineering departments or the College of Medicine, fostering a collaborative environment. Opportunities for entrepreneurial training are available through the Engineering Innovation Institute.

University of Florida · United States

Business Administration (B.A. or B.S.)

The University of Florida's Warrington College of Business offers both a Bachelor of Arts (BABA) and a Bachelor of Science (BSBA) in Business Administration through UF Online. These programs provide a comprehensive understanding of business operations, strategy, and ethics, preparing students for diverse career paths in any industry. The BSBA offers a curriculum focused entirely on business disciplines, equipping students with technical and practical skills for a business career. The BABA allows students to combine a core business foundation with a specialization in an area outside of business, offering greater flexibility to tailor education to individual goals.

University of Florida · United States

Computer and Information Science & Engineering

The University of Florida offers Bachelor's degree programs in Computer and Information Science & Engineering through both the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. These programs aim to educate students in the fundamental concepts of computing, contribute to the creation and dissemination of computing knowledge, and apply expertise to solve societal problems. The department offers various specializations and a minor in Computer and Information Science. Both colleges provide pathways to a Computer Science degree, while the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering also offers Computer Engineering degrees with software and hardware options. Additionally, a Digital Arts and Sciences program is available.

Scholarships

for United States

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Duke University

Karsh International Scholarship Program

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.

University of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)

University of Miami Stamps Scholarship

Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated costs for international students at the University of Florida?

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For international undergraduate students, the estimated annual tuition is approximately $28,700. Including room, board, and fees, the total estimated cost of attendance is around $44,000 per year. UF Online programmes may offer lower tuition rates.

Does the University of Florida offer scholarships for international students?

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Yes, the University of Florida offers scholarships such as the UF International Student Scholarship, which provides merit-based partial tuition awards. Graduate students may be eligible for Graduate School Fellowships. The Benacquisto Scholarship is available for National Merit Scholars.

What is the University of Florida's ranking among public universities?

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The University of Florida is ranked 6th among US public universities by U.S. News & World Report in 2024. It is also recognized globally, ranking within the Top 201-250 by QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2025.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?

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International applicants typically need a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80, an IELTS Academic score of 6.5, or a Duolingo English Test score of 115. Higher scores on these tests can strengthen an application.

What is the city of Gainesville like for students?

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Gainesville is a vibrant and affordable college town in north-central Florida. It is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and warm climate. The city is also within driving distance of Florida's beaches and Orlando.

University of Florida

Why study here

Student life

For international students