2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in Florida

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  7,999 reviews

Sophomore: The student organizations, resources for students, and variety of courses is incredible. Every day I discover a new opportunity for professional and personal growth and the resources for mental and physical health are phenomenal. The fitness centers on campus have classes, personal training, and top notch equipment. There are so many ways to get involved and a club for EVERY interest, both personal and professional. My only complaints are that the advisors can be hit or miss. Some advisors are incredible and give you a breath of information and provide you with a ton of resources but some advisors left me with more questions than answers. Some of the professors are amazing and passionate and the reason why I changed my major to economics. On the other hand some professors were so incredibly bad that I changed my major to something outside of their discipline. Some professors courses are incredibly unorganized and were more about them showing off than helping students. Great school!... Read 7,999 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $9,809

• SAT range 1300-1470

• Coral Gables, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  3,027 reviews

Freshman: I'm having a great time at UM! Move-in is phenomenal; the school provides professional movers to help families unload their vehicles and get students' belongings to the rooms. Orientation programming is fun and includes a variety of activities for students and parents. Class registration for engineering students is completely stress-free. On top of it all, classes are going well. If I had to do all over again, UM would still be my #1 choice.... Read 3,027 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $34,492

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Tallahassee, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  7,567 reviews

Junior: As a junior and a current student at FSU, I have to say that my experience has been nothing short of amazing. I've had the privilege of spending three incredible years at this institution, and my love for FSU only grows stronger. The campus is not only stunning but also feels like a second home. The professors and staff are truly exceptional, always willing to support and guide us on our academic journey. The opportunities for personal and professional growth are endless, and the diverse range of courses keeps me engaged and excited about learning. But what truly sets FSU apart is the sense of community. The friendships I've formed and the memories I've created here are invaluable. As a junior, I can confidently say that FSU has exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what my senior year holds. If you're considering FSU, I can't recommend it enough – it's a place where you'll thrive and create lifelong memories. Go Noles!... Read 7,567 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $12,684

• SAT range 1180-1340

• Tampa, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  7,465 reviews

Sophomore: As a student at the University of South Florida, my experience has been truly rewarding. The university offers a diverse and inclusive environment, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The faculty is knowledgeable and supportive, encouraging academic growth and critical thinking. USF provides numerous opportunities for extracurricular involvement, enriching my college journey. From state-of-the-art facilities to a vibrant campus life, USF has made my time here unforgettable and has prepared me for a promising future. Go Bulls! 🤘🏼... Read 7,465 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $10,004

• SAT range 1160-1320

• Tallahassee, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  2,707 reviews

Junior: I mostly thoroughly have enjoyed my time at Florida A&M University. The school offers a plethora of opportunities and displays a wide variety of education paths. FAMU is very inclusive and is filled with innumerable opportunities to gain real world experience in order to better prepare their students for their futures. Personally, as a business administration scholar, I am rewarded the opportunity to converse with some of the most profound leaders of some of the world's most successful corporations such as Wells Fargo, Capital One, Boehringer Ingelheim, and many more at our Weekly Forum meetings. This is one of my favorite perks, as it allows the students to gain first hand knowledge. Consequently, I believe that the school could improve on its overall service to students & parents. With heavy traffic, getting half from campus staff is not alway the smoothest process. Overall, the school's morale, culture, and opportunities are like none other!... Read 2,707 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $12,539

• SAT range 1010-1150

• Orlando, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  22,251 reviews

Freshman: I am an early admittance student slated to begin my journey as a college freshman during my senior year of high school at UCF starting in August of 2023. My experience has been incredibly positive so far beginning with my initial tour of the campus, through the application and acceptance process and lastly checking off my "to do" checklist in order to be ready for orientation. Every campus employee that I have encountered has been welcoming, encouraging and informative which has alleviated much of the pressure of being a first time college student! I highly recommend this institution of higher education!... Read 22,251 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 36%

• Net price $11,575

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Winter Park, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,049 reviews

Senior: Rollins provided me with a great overall college experience! Rollins offers a complete education and its beautiful campus allows a student to foster their passions and grow as an individual. Here I meet my friends in my first week as a freshman who I see every day and live with. A student at Rollins feels like they have an impact on their local and global community through clubs, organizations, and a great student-to-faculty ratio. The school is truly catered to the student. With its close vicinity to downtown Orlando and New Symrna only an hour away, there is so much for a student to explore. I truly believe I have learned so much academically, socially, and beyond.... Read 1,049 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $30,229

• SAT range 1100-1290

• Jacksonville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  812 reviews

Freshman: I am going to a freshman at Jacksonville University in Spring. I have been accepted in the University, but haven’t taken any classes or been on campus yet. My major will be in Mechanical Engineering. Jacksonville wrote that my outstanding application and remarkable accomplishments show that I have the intellectual aptitude, talent, and dedication to flourish at the university. I stood out as a distinguished applicant because they saw the same innovation, drive and tenacity success in me that their current students exhibit. I am now searching for scholarships in hope of receiving to be able to play for tuition.... Read 812 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $23,503

• SAT range 1020-1250

• Lakeland, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  1,180 reviews

Sophomore: Florida Southern is a great school if you are looking for meaningful relationships amongst your professors, beautiful scenery when you need to take your mind off of school, fun activities, and all around welcoming people. Although the food is hot and miss, Florida Southern makes up for it by having numerous dining options. However, I would love to see FSC incorporate even more options including vegetarian/vegan meals instead of just the 1-2 options on the Caf menu. Also, it is outdated. There definitely need to be renovations!... Read 1,180 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $25,783

• SAT range 1160-1310

• Tampa, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  2,433 reviews

Sophomore: I have had such an amazing experience at this school. I am so happy that I applied here and made my decision to attend this university. Academic life here is very manageable and it’s great because of the small class sizes. There are no student teachers as all Proffesor’s are accredited individuals. I have been able to form great relationships with Proffesor’s. Overall there are so many social and academic opportunities offered here that can advance someone in the future. In addition, the community life and social activities are the best! I would certainly recommend anyone to apply here.... Read 2,433 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $34,720

• SAT range 1070-1240

• Miami, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  7,422 reviews

Freshman: I started attending Florida International University this summer and I absolutely love it. This is the only University that attracted me in Florida. The diversity in this school is truly incredible, there’s so many people from different backgrounds and it’s nice to get to know them. The people there also feel very welcoming and inclusive, and that’s what I really look for in a school. It lets make me gain more knowledge and become less ignorant of others. The professors I’ve had so far are incredible too, they are understanding and good at teaching. It feels like there is a strong support system and you can go to people when you feel troubled. The only bad thing is the parking situation because it can get very complicated at time but its something that can be fixed very quickly. I still love it there tho!... Read 7,422 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $9,398

• SAT range 1060-1240

• Pensacola, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,826 reviews

Freshman: I’m a biomedical science major and I have absolutely loved it! I’m from Wyoming and it feels like a home away from home. Classes are challenging, yet professors really work with you to make sure you’re at your full potential. I’ve joined so many things that I would’ve never imagined, joined AED (Alpha Epsilon Delta) which is a medical honor society with many volunteer opportunities, rushed for a sorority and have met so many people. It’s crazy to me how kind people are here, always smiling and wanting to talk. On top of everything the campus is absolutely gorgeous and has its own hiking trails. If I could go back and look for a college again, I wouldn’t change my decision.... Read 1,826 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $10,344

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Fort Lauderdale, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  2,040 reviews

Other: As an online student, my experience thus far has been quite straightforward. I deem professors very respectable with regards to their assessments as well as very understanding of students. Despite minor complications with registration and advising at times, I would like for advisors to be more informed about the processes I billed when advising students in their particular positions in order to give the right guidance. Apart from this, NSU has been a splendid university for me to attend so far! I am very motivated to learn and complete assignments and I look forward to more in the near future!... Read 2,040 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $26,530

• SAT range 1040-1310

• West Palm Beach, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,055 reviews

Graduate Student: Being a non-religious person attending a Christian university has been incredibly eye-opening, interesting, and has fostered a greater open-mindedness within me. The experience has challenged my beliefs and allowed me to explore a different perspective. Engaging in discussions with fellow students and professors of diverse religious backgrounds has broadened my understanding of faith and deepened my empathy for others. Studying Christian teachings and values has given me a profound appreciation for the moral and philosophical foundations they offer. This experience has expanded my worldview, sparked intellectual curiosity, and encouraged me to approach differences with an open heart and mind. Attending a Christian university as a non-religious person has undoubtedly been a transformative journey of personal growth.... Read 1,055 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $27,881

• SAT range 1030-1240

• Saint Augustine, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,077 reviews

Freshman: I am so glad I decided to attend Flagler in St Augustine. This school felt like home from the minute I toured it before my senior year of high school. The school is small but large enough to have a wide variety of clubs and activities. Class size is also small which is great because my teachers know me by name and they are really easy to approach with questions or for extra help. I also love the fact that as a first year special Ed major I’ve already been exposed to an elementary classroom environment, cementing the fact that I made the right choice for a future career. I’ve made so many new friends since August and despite a hurricane scare during the second week of classes the Florida weather has been awesome. I’ve been able to try surfing and kayaking which are things I would not have the opportunity to try at other schools. Flagler is a great small school with a large school feel!... Read 1,077 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $24,798

• SAT range 990-1180

• Boca Raton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  4,920 reviews

Sophomore: I have had such a great time at FAU for the past year. Both Boca and Jupiter are such wonderful places to be in; the areas are relatively safe, bustling with life, and help me develop people skills and get out in the world. The facilities are top tier and the staff really care about my path in life. I have met future bridesmaids, fell in love with academia, and felt so free yet supported in college. All my classes have been really great and very helpful for my career goal. There have been bumps in the road, but the tutoring, support/therapy groups, friends, and overall faculty/staff/students have been incredible. The housing is also comfortable and beautiful. The alumni network is great; I have made friends with people who walk by and see my Owl sticker or my shirt. They are always so curious as to how school is, and I cannot help but gush about how wonderful it has been so far. To many more years!... Read 4,920 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $8,771

• SAT range 1020-1200

• Saint Petersburg, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,015 reviews

Freshman: I love attending Eckerd College. It's a private school off of the gulf coast. The campus is beautiful, lots of palm trees, pretty views and even a beach on campus! I love the class sizes as well, my biggest class I've taken so far has only been 35 people and the professors are very interactive with students. There are many different internship opportunities within the university and studying abroad is just one click away with Eckerd's amazing study abroad programs.... Read 1,015 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $37,494

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Winter Park, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  4,189 reviews

Alum: Overall my experience was great! I got to meet other creatives, not just in my degree program digital art and design but, film, media communications and music. The degree programs at Full Sail University are set at an accelerated pace so you're able to get you bachelors in two years instead of four years as usually. This is because you're taking two classes every month and are essentially in class almost everyday of the week, it's kinda like a job. You'll get access to all the current software used in your field of study by professionals and depending on the degree program a hands on experience with going on film sets, sound stages and more. I do recommend choosing your degree program wisely as some of this stuff you can learn on your own at home. An example would be the adobe creative cloud for graphic design. But, if you decide to go to Full Sail University, definitely apply yourself so that way you'll have a better chance at leaving school with a job opportunity.... Read 4,189 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $27,420

• SAT range —

• Saint Leo, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,902 reviews

Senior: My experience with the college has been pretty positive, I think it has its pros and cons just like any college. They have done very well with keeping in contact with me about anything I need and have kept in touch about my mental health throughout the program, which is something I have found that not many colleges take into consideration especially with how intense the program can get. I think the only real downside I have found is that the classes and teachers can be intense sometimes but I am on track to get my degree much faster so I can't complain too much!... Read 1,902 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $18,336

• SAT range 930-1150

• Fort Myers, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  2,656 reviews

Alum: I enrolled at FGCU as part of the Accelerated Collegiate experience program (ACE) which is an opportunity given to local high school students to advance and obtain a collegiate education. I was and still am very interested in pursuing medical school; the advising department was nonexistent for this, but with online resources, you can compensate. FGCU had great opportunities in the form of research opportunities for those interested. I completed research and was even published! Further, I also had the opportunity to be involved in other activities such as recreation soccer and volunteering. I co-founded a volunteering organization.... Read 2,656 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $9,840

• SAT range 1010-1180

• Miami, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  6,347 reviews

Freshman: I'm currently a freshman at Miami Dade College (MDC), and let me tell you, it's been an incredible experience so far! The variety of programs and courses at MDC is pretty amazing. they have options for just about everything. Whether you're into arts and humanities, business, health sciences, or technology, MDC has got you covered. MDC has several campuses spread across Miami-Dade County, which is really convenient. I can choose the campus that's closest to me or most convenient for my schedule. Overall, my freshman experience at MDC has been beyond my expectations. The accessibility, variety of programs, convenient campuses, flexible scheduling, diverse community, industry partnerships, and supportive faculty and staff have all contributed to making this a great start to my college journey. I can't wait to see what the rest of my time at MDC has in store for me!... Read 6,347 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,211

• SAT range —

• Orlando, FL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  6,145 reviews

Freshman: Take a deep breath don't be nervous, take a moment to observe your surroundings. These were my first thoughts when stepping into Valencia College to begin my first semester in the spring. As someone who graduated early during the midst of the pandemic, I felt like I would be immediately outcasted academically. While I was a straight A’s student in high school with a severe lack of teachers, I began to wonder if I was truly ready to attend college full-time at the age of 16. However, as soon as I entered the building I was greeted by the staff, and welcomed by a comforting and sincere environment. In that exact moment all my worries and concerns vanished! There is always someone around to answer my questions and programs to cater to my mental, emotional, physical, and academic needs. With a variety of activities and clubs, I was guaranteed a place to fit in all while feeling safe. Valencia College is more than just another educational institution it is now my second home.... Read 6,145 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $14,053

• SAT range —

• Jacksonville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  2,292 reviews

Junior: My experience at FSCJ has been great! I graduated high school in 2006 so it was hard to get back into the swing of things. The advisors and everyone I’ve spoken with have been soo encouraging and nothing short of amazing. I often call with questions and everyone is soo patient. Wether it’s an advisor or financial aid, everyone has been very thorough with helping me. There’s also lots of class options to fit my busy schedule. I’m a single parent of 2 and work full time, there’s lots of evening options available in order to allow me to work, be a parent, and excel in my studies.... Read 2,292 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,062

• SAT range —

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  1,535 reviews

Freshman: My experience thus far at Santa Fe has been phenomenal! I love that the instructors and administrators are quick to help and always so respectful. From help between purchasing electronics, psychologists guiding you and calming your mental health, and learning so much has been the biggest blessing on my life. I absolutely love Santa Fe and definitely would recommend this school to anyone who asks!... Read 1,535 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,341

• SAT range —

• Sanford, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  1,190 reviews

Junior: So far as a current student at Seminole State College of Florida on the Altamonte campus, the opportunities given are incredible and very helpful for students to navigate to a career pathway! They have a fantastic nursing program here for students interested in pursuing a career in health studies, and many resources for academic success through what we call Raider Connect. A Direct Connect to the University of Central FL (UCF) is offered by earning an A. A or A.S degree from this partnered college to complete your guaranteed admission to the University. Therefore, Look no further way from here to begin your career!... Read 1,190 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,481

• SAT range —