2024 Best Colleges in Florida

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  7,976 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 7,976 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  3,016 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 3,016 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $34,492

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Tallahassee, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  7,537 reviews

Sophomore: Florida State University has offered an incredibly positive, educational experience for me thus far. I've made several friends in my major and have had nothing but successful and beneficial interactions with me professors and peers. There is still a lot I'm learning about my checklist and goals for my career path which I've especially enjoyed. Learning to network and get out of my comfort zone socially to discover more about my educational and post graduation plans has opened up several opportunities for me that I never would've thought possible before coming to FSU. I can't wait for all the future experiences and opportunities that are still yet to come for me here!... Read 7,537 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $12,684

• SAT range 1180-1340

• Tampa, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  7,418 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 7,418 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $10,004

• SAT range 1160-1320

• Orlando, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  22,195 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 22,195 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 36%

• Net price $11,575

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Miami, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  7,390 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 7,390 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $9,398

• SAT range 1060-1240

• Sarasota, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  99 reviews

Alum: I had an extraordinary time at USFSM! While they did not have dorms, they made up for it in events and camaraderie. There is always something going on at USFSM - whether it is during Week of Welcome, or Relaxation week during Finals, or presentations, the campus is buzzing. Everyone at USFSM, including the chancellor, is easily accessible. Everyone wants you to be successful, and provides you with the tools to do so. You can join student government, any club you can imagine, or nothing at all. There was never a time where I felt I wasn't welcomed. There are no "cliques" either. Everyone was friendly and approachable.... Read 99 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 24%

• Net price $2,734

• SAT range 1160-1290

• St. Petersburg, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  540 reviews

Freshman: As a freshman here attending the University of South Florida - St. Petersburg, I can say that the overall experience is very great! All of the staff are welcoming and very hospitable, the upperclassmen are helpful, and the classes are great as well! On the topic of classes, because this campus is smaller than the main campus, it only takes less than 10 minutes to get to class. To add, It also not difficult to make friends either, especially through the many fun events and clubs that the university hosts.... Read 540 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 27%

• Net price $10,841

• SAT range 1140-1280

• Melbourne, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,104 reviews

Alum: The Florida Institute of Technology is an excellent private university! I loved my time at Florida Tech, and I hope to return to continue my studies in the future. FIT is perfect for those who prefer a smaller campus, a more intimate classroom environment, and approachable instructors. Florida Tech has a wonderful program for those who need accommodations due to learning disabilities; such as extra time and quiet location during testing. The Student Life and Events at FIT is great! The campus is just minutes away from the beach and only a couple hours from Orlando. There are annual scheduled trips to both Disney World and Universal Studios. Additional student activities include casino night, painting with a twist, and homecoming concert series.... Read 1,104 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $32,314

• SAT range 1140-1340

• Daytona Beach, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  402 reviews

Niche User: I'm in the worldwide dual enrollment program, and I finished my first course about a month ago. I took Calculus and Analytical Geometry I, and it was great! Despite my initial nervousness about the online delivery, the activities (weekly written discussions, homework, quizzes, videos on the topics, MATLAB tutorials...) didn't feel repetitive/boring. They helped me understand the concepts very well. I also had a positive experience with my academic advisor, who helped me through the application process and responded quickly to my emails. Although I have to say, the cost per credit is a bit high for me (higher education is free where I live).... Read 402 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $15,600

• SAT range —

• Daytona Beach, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,590 reviews

Freshman: Explosive is the word I would use to describe my time here at Embry Riddle's Daytona campus. It all started with a bang on move-in day where everyone was scrambling to get situated in their rooms. Seeing the number of cars lined up in the lots and the blurring blue shirts all over campus made me think just wow! When I got my ID card and went to my room, I didn't expect it to be as nice as it was. Another explosion went in my brain seeing the possibilities of my room. The only downside was having to sweep and mop the floors because it wasn't the cleanest. After me and my roommates got situated, orientation week started and man the amount of events that were happening was overwhelming. Movie nights by the poolside, glowing discos, and the club fair were all so well done. It was full of entertainment and activities to keep you on your toes. I remember feeling like I was being hit all at once with these amazing events and I liked it. Like an explosion. So excited for this academic year!... Read 1,590 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $35,923

• SAT range 1140-1330

• Tallahassee, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  2,694 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 2,694 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $12,539

• SAT range 1010-1150

• Pensacola, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,819 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 1,819 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  2,016 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 2,016 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $26,530

• SAT range 1040-1310

• Jacksonville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,974 reviews

Junior: Nursing. Financial aid office A+: knowledge, kind, helpful. Doesn't brush you off. General admissions is disorganized and unhelpful with the exception of one individual I came across, as is nursing admissions. Admin in my major could use some executive couching to improve organizational & communication skills. If you go into the program being prepared to deal with these realities, you will be able to enjoy the many positives the nursing programs UNF offers. Most professors are competent & kind, good clinical opportunities & experience, good teamwork among cohorts. Every nursing program will have it's positives & negative, but UNF is still pretty darn good! While I believe UNF tuition is a hair cheaper than UF, I believe UF has more substantial scholarship opportunities. The additional costs associated with UNF's program (supplies, required purchases) are surprisingly high & higher than what is published on the dept. page, so please research to make best decision for YOU.... Read 2,974 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $7,746

• SAT range 1000-1210

• Sarasota, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  466 reviews

Alum: The academics and professors are excellent! I picked NCF because of the small class sizes and private school feel. It was helpful to have a faculty advisor in my discipline throughout my time here, and I am thankful she pushed me to take courses outside my major. It is a plus to have established positive relationships with multiple professors in my field. I highly recommend using the on-campus resources (Writing Resource Center, Center for Engagement and Opportunity, librarians, Counseling and Wellness Center, etc.). I enjoyed living in Sarasota (there is a lot to do) and using the bayfront. The only downsides of the college are the food (quality + meal times) and how hard it can be to fit in and make friends (even when active on campus). If given a choice, I would pick NCF again, as I have grown intellectually and feel prepared for grad school due to the rigor of the courses.... Read 466 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $9,727

• SAT range 1120-1340

• Boca Raton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  4,893 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 4,893 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $8,771

• SAT range 1020-1200

• Boca Raton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.63 out of 5  433 reviews

Works Here: As a new employee at any job there are certain things that you may have some excitement about. I can tell you for a fact that as a new employee here at Everglades University Boca Campus that it has been thrilling and very rewarding! Let's first talk about the warm greeting that was extended on my arrival. The staff made sure to welcome me personally by greeting me with open smiles and a handshake, something rarely seen these days. I was well informed of my duties and how my position impacted the student body and overall campus life. It has truly been a pleasure working with the staff and students both on campus and online. The work is very rewarding, allowing me the opportunity to work with a diverse and well experienced faculty that truly care about the aptitude of the students they instruct.... Read 433 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $29,341

• SAT range —

• Winter Park, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,045 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 1,045 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $30,229

• SAT range 1100-1290

• Fort Myers, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  2,639 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 2,639 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $9,840

• SAT range 1010-1180

• Deland, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,455 reviews

Sophomore: Stetson University does not judge based off past merit but see the potential with an over all person. This has built a community that drives students to being successful. All the professional care tremendously for each student and makes sure they are all the tools to be successful. My goal is to obtain my PhD after Stetson University. Instead of following a traditional timeline, my freshman year I have already completed some research and internship to set myself apart from other PhD applicants. Thank you Stetson University!... Read 1,455 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $20,278

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Temple Terrace, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  311 reviews

Alum: I attended Florida College for 2.5 years. This is an excellent academic institution. The professors, staff, and students all strive for community and helping one another grow academically, professionally, and spiritually. Located in Temple Terrace, Florida College is eight minutes away from Busch Gardens, a half hour from the beach, twenty minutes away from downtown Tampa, and an hour and a half away from Disney. There are so many outdoor activities available to do in the area, and students (and the SBGA) are constantly planning events on-campus and off. There is no shortage of opportunities for social fun. After FC, I attended University of South Florida, which was a great experience, but I did not make the hundreds of lasting connections and friendships that I still have thanks to FC. Additionally, if you need networking or shadowing opportunities, FC advisors and professors will facilitate professional connections both locally and nationally. I can't recommend this school enough!... Read 311 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $20,538

• SAT range 900-1160

• Fort Lauderdale, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  1,193 reviews

Graduate Student: Hi, I am currently a student at Keiser University and I plan to graduate in 2024 with my associates degree in Medical Assisting in Science. My overall experience so far has been amazing! Each course is fully explained from the instructors and the course content is enjoyable to learn. I find navigating the course content online super simple and grades are always posted promptly. Keiser University has given me every opportunity so far to excel towards success. Personally, I struggled figuring out how to navigate between student portals and the course work my first week and the staff at Keiser University was there to guide me through all the steps and took the time to explain everything to me. The counselor even called to check that I was getting the hang of everything here and there my first month. I think the dedication Keiser University has for their students says a lot about the type of school they are and the commitment they have to see you succeed. -L.S.... Read 1,193 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $31,984

• SAT range —

• Jacksonville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  805 reviews

Freshman: I loved the environment and the people there made it very enjoyable. I made the cheer team this year, and when i first arrived i eas increadably scared but once i gat there everyone was very welcoming and kind. The campus is pretty small so it is easy from plae to place by walking. There are many D1 sport programs at JU, so if you like sports, or watching them there are plenty of options. They have a travel abrod program in italy wich is very cool and a lot of fun! They do have Greek life at JU and from what ive hear they are a lot of fun and is a great way to meet people and have that instant group of friends. The dorm rooms when they show you the sample one is verry small but i got a chance to look at some of the other dorms with my friends and they are in fact better then what they showed durring the tour. There are many things and activities on campus to participat in for everyone, so you can alwase find something to do andfind people with the same interest that you have.... Read 805 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $23,503

• SAT range 1020-1250

• Tampa, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  2,424 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 2,424 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $34,720

• SAT range 1070-1240