The University of Central Florida (UCF) is a metropolitan research university built to make a better future for our students and society. By harnessing innovative learning, discovery, and partnerships, the University of Central Florida cultivates social mobility while nurturing the skilled talent essential for propelling industries forward in its region, state, and beyond. It was established by the Florida Legislature in the U.S. state of Florida on June 10, 1963.
Location
The University of Central Florida’s main campus in unincorporated Orange County, Florida, serves as the nucleus of its transformative mission, catering to the talent needs of Central Florida and the US space program. Boasting a 1,420-acre campus in east Orlando, it offers modern facilities and technology for seamless learning and social engagement. With 800 acres of natural landscapes, students can also reconnect with nature, creating an enriching learning environment appreciated by all.
With Orlando known for strong K-12 education and some of the best elementary schools in Florida, students and families around UCF enjoy a thriving academic ecosystem from early learning to advanced research.
Here at the University of Central Florida, students can pursue their passions at various campus locations, whether it’s the main campus in east Orlando, UCF Downtown, Rosen College of Hospitality Management, or the Academic Health Sciences Campus. No matter where they study, students are fully immersed in their chosen fields. The University of Central Florida also offers regional locations and online programs, so students can chase their dreams on their terms, wherever they are.
Fees Structure
2023-24 ANNUAL COST OF ATTENDANCE
Florida Residents
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $5,944 |
| Books | $1,000 |
| Housing | $7,370 |
| Food | $4,700 |
| Transportation | $2,126 |
| Personal Expenses | $3,104 |
| Total | $24,244 |
Non-Florida Residents
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $20,969 |
| Books | $1,000 |
| Housing | $7,370 |
| Food | $4,700 |
| Transportation | $2,126 |
| Personal Expenses | $3,104 |
| Total | $39,269 |
Rankings and Recognitions
The University of Central Florida consistently earns top rankings in various national and international lists:
Academic Rankings – National
| Ranking | Position |
|---|---|
| Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023 | #83–99 |
| America's Top Colleges annual Forbes ranking 2023 | #112 |
| U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Ranking 2023 | #124 (tie) |
| Washington Monthly Ranking 2023 | #36 |
| The Wall Street Journal ranking 2023 | #172 |
Academic Rankings – Global
| Ranking | Position |
|---|---|
| Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023 | #301–400 |
| QS World University Rankings 2023 | #593 (tie) |
| Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 | #401–500 |
| U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities Ranking 2023 | #413 (tie) |
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Moreover, UCF ranks as a leader in academia, partnerships, and research across various domains including optics and lasers, modeling and simulation, engineering and computer science, business, public administration, education, hospitality management, healthcare, and video game design.
Notably acknowledged as one of the premier national universities by Washington Monthly, UCF got a rank in the esteemed rankings of the U.S. News and World Report’s best colleges. Delve into the excellence of several of our academic programs, consistently acclaimed among the top in both the nation and the world.
Program & Rankings Sourced from University of Central Florida Official Sites
| Program | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Graduate Game Design Program | No. 2 in the world for 2023 (The Princeton Review and PC Gamer) |
| Emergency and Crisis Management Graduate Program | No. 2 in the nation for 2023 (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Nonprofit Management Graduate Program | No. 18 in the nation for 2023-24 (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Online Undergraduate Programs | No. 7 in the nation for 2024 (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Cybersecurity Programs | Ranked among the top 30 in the nation for 2022 (cyberdegreesedu.org) |
Admissions
UCF offers an extensive array of over 240 degree programs across 13 colleges, designed to equip you with the education you need for tomorrow’s opportunities, available today. UCF facilitates admission through six primary pathways, encompassing Freshman, Transfer, Online, Graduation, International, and Continuing Education.
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With a robust enrollment of 69,320 students, 68% of whom are first-time-in-college students, UCF proudly ensures that 42% of graduates emerge without any educational debt. Additionally, 50.7% of UCF students represent diverse minority backgrounds, fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment.
1. Application procedure for Freshman:
Apply Using the UCF Undergraduate application through the website.
2. Application Fee:
A non-refundable fee of $30 is required.
3. Who Should Apply as a Freshman?
- High school seniors
- High school students or graduates who earned dual enrollment credit or an AA degree but have not completed more than 11 semester hours of college coursework after high school graduation
- High school graduates who have never enrolled in college
4. Required Materials:
In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Completed Self-Provided Academic Record for Knights “SPARK” Form; Students who have already completed high school must submit a current official high school or home-school transcript
- Official Standardized Test Scores* from either SAT [code: 5233], ACT [code: 0735], or CLT*SAT and ACT scores must have been taken within the last five years; CLT scores must have been taken July 1, 2024 or later
- Official GED or TOEFL/IELTS score, if applicable
- Application essay (strongly encouraged but not required)
- Completed online application:
5. Application Deadline:
Freshman Application Completion Deadlines as per the University of Central Florida
| Semester | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | May 1 |
| Spring | November 1 |
| Summer | March 1 |
Transfer Applicants Completion Deadlines as per the University of Central Florida
| Semester | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | July 1 |
| Spring | November 1 |
| Summer | March 1 |
International Applicants Completion Deadlines as per the University of Central Florida:
| Semester | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | March 1 |
| Spring | September 1 |
| Summer | January 1 |
Conclusion
The University at Central Florida is a place where academic excellence meets vibrant campus life. With its rich history, impressive rankings, and commitment to student success, it’s no wonder that UCF remains a top choice for students seeking higher education in 2025. We encourage you to explore the university further and consider it as a potential destination for your educational journey.
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What GPA will I need for admission in Central Florida?
You will need 4.1 – 4.5 GPA to get into Central Florida university for undergraduate admission.