2023 Best Test Optional Colleges in Florida

• Coral Gables, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  2,992 reviews

Senior: Miami has been a great place the past few years for me. As a transfer student, coming in not knowing anyone, I have met many types of different students from hard working backgrounds. The professors are very much committed to getting to know everyone in their class, and not just going through the motions as a mundane robot you see at some larger schools. In my experience the average class size outside of your one or two 100 level class is between 5-30 students. The campus is beautiful. Everywhere you look is palm trees and clear skies (with the exception of your occasional rain shower) the university does a nice job maintaining the buildings and surrounding vegetation. Food wise the options aren’t the greatest. In the past few years there has been an attempt to bring in healthier options, but for the most part the dinning hall and food court include your average Starbucks, subway, panda, so on and forth. Safety campus is very safe Never had any issues. Overall a great school!... Read 2,992 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $34,492

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Daytona Beach, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  1,560 reviews

Sophomore: Students of all backgrounds that love aircraft, space, rockets, and military involvement will find their way here. All of my peers are ambitious and brilliant, and it is incredible being around them! The University is also deeply tied to the aerospace industry for obvious reasons, and it has an aura of genuine respect from the big-name contractors. However, Embry-Riddle is the place that will make you go through an existential crisis over math. You will struggle, sweat, and seethe at the courses you must endure. But then again, engineering is a difficult degree, and those who succeed are tenacious and curious. After all, we want the engineers building our future to be knowledgeable and competent, and so must you and I.... Read 1,560 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $35,923

• SAT range 1140-1330

• Winter Park, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,038 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 1,038 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $30,229

• SAT range 1100-1290

• Fort Lauderdale, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  1,974 reviews

Senior: Great school, a lot of diversity, excellent professors. Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry is the only optometric academic institution in the state of Florida. Students are able to enjoy South Florida's renowned weather, beaches, and other attractions and participate in the college's numerous student organizations while receiving strong didactic and clinical training that will thoroughly prepare them for their professional careers. At Nova, every student has an iPad so that we can take notes, record lectures, and take exams on them. We also have an elaborate fitness center that includes workout classes to keep us working on our fitness. Another great opportunity that students take advantage of is dual enrollment. Optometry students at Nova also have the opportunity to explore different optometric specialties within the clinical setting. Whether your interests lie in pediatrics, ocular disease, contact lenses, or low vision, they have us covered! Loving the experience... Read 1,974 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $26,530

• SAT range 1040-1310

• Fort Lauderdale, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  1,183 reviews

Freshman: I don’t think there is anything I would change. Keiser University is a very attentive school that really cares for each student. They make sure your attending classes and also take away the hassle of getting ready for the next semester. Some of the counselors will call and check on students just to catch up and see how they’re doing. I don’t know any university that shows that kind of compassion towards students. Most believe you pay, you get your education, you leave, but Keiser University is gonna make sure you see a degree!... Read 1,183 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $31,984

• SAT range —

• Boca Raton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.63 out of 5  429 reviews

Graduate Student: Great University! Highly recommended! I have been a student at Everglades University since 2018. I did my bachelor's degree in Aviation/Aerospace Management - Flight operations at Everglades University, and I am currently enrolled in the Master's Aviation/Aerospace program. I am a full-time working mom, and EU is an excellent choice for me to attend college. The "on-campus classes" in the evening or online classes fit perfectly in my schedule.... Read 429 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $29,341

• SAT range —

• Daytona Beach, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  396 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 396 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $15,600

• SAT range —

• Deland, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,437 reviews

Niche User: Stetson University boasts a stunning and immaculately-kept campus, providing a secure and cozy atmosphere that fosters both academic and personal growth for its students. The campus exudes charm and elegance, featuring timeless brick structures and meticulously maintained landscapes. The neighboring areas are equally charming and trendy, boasting a rich history and a downtown district just a few blocks away from the campus. There is an extensive variety of extracurricular options, such as athletic teams, music and arts organizations, and community service clubs, Stetson University provides ample avenues for students to engage, build lasting connections, and enrich their overall college experience. The demanding academic curriculum, coupled with crucial life lessons, is going to equip me with the necessary tools and skills to excel in graduate school and, ultimately, in leadership roles in the professional realm.... Read 1,437 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $20,278

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Jacksonville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  800 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 800 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $23,503

• SAT range 1020-1250

• Lakeland, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,168 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 1,168 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $25,783

• SAT range 1160-1310

• Tampa, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  2,406 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 2,406 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $34,720

• SAT range 1070-1240

• Boca Raton, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  530 reviews

Niche User: Upon my search for the best fit college for me, I discovered Lynn University. Lynn University is a private university located in Boca Raton Florida, it is neighbors with FAU(Florida Atlantic University) as well. Lynn University has a beautiful campus and is just now rising in numbers of students! Many students who go to lynn come from abroad which makes it a multi-cultural community. Having a diverse community helps you learn more about other races and traditions you may not know about or intrigued by. All campus' have diversity but not as much as Lynn University which makes them stand out. Lynn University also offers a different type of learning style, far more superior and up to date with technology than other schools systems. Upon joining lynn you receive not only an I-pad, but a whole new way to learn information. The amazing staff of Lynn University have found a way to digitally create textbooks and learning lessons for their students. Lynn is your fit if your ready for the new!... Read 530 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $38,315

• SAT range 1030-1200

• Miami, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  1,389 reviews

Freshman: Barry University is both a place of comfort and a place that pushes you to step out of your comfort zone. Being at Barry, you are introduced to different people from different parts of the world. Despite how diverse it is, everyone is treated equally. At first, I use to think that the teachers and Students were just being nice because I was a freshman. Turns out, that’s just the effect that Barry University has on you. It allows one to be so instilled in love, that it becomes the norm of one’s personality. Barry has a balanced atmosphere, there’s very little distraction which can cause you to lose focus on what’s important. Small class sizes and low key events, are one of the reasons why I’ll be staying at Barry. Here at Barry, you are encouraged to be yourself at your own pace. It’s like a home away from home, which lacks toxicity. I think Barry needs more recognition, for it is more than just a college. It’s really like a family!... Read 1,389 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $18,390

• SAT range 930-1080

• Lakeland, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  1,426 reviews

Junior: I love southeastern and it’s an amazing school! I am a transfer student and the difference between the school from my freshman year and southeastern is astronomical. This school has such a warm loving family environment. Always having events going on to get the students to interact and have fun with all the stress we have going on and it’s super helpful with creating bonds that last forever and making sure you know that you aren’t alone. Southeastern is very understanding, passionate for their students, and accepting of all and I couldn’t be more thankful for the help they gave with the transferring process and getting me on the track I need. They are a constant reminder that you are not alone and we as a school are a family who all succeed together. There isn’t much I could say I would like for change, the staff professors and all are great. I am happy to have the chance to attend southeastern.... Read 1,426 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $27,536

• SAT range 960-1180

• Saint Petersburg, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,006 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 1,006 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $37,494

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Saint Augustine, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,059 reviews

Alum: Flagler College is a great school in many ways. It’s in the heart of one of the oldest cities in the nation, so for any history-related degrees it’s a perfect place for internships. The campus is historic itself. The class size is smaller, so you get an intimate experience that is extremely different than a large university. And you’ll likely have your professors multiple times, so it helps you succeed. However, Flagler has a lot to progress on and lacks diversity. There is a significant LGBTQIA2S community and international students but that’s it. And its administration is very much an old boy’s club. Their board has no term limits, which bars change at times. However, my experiences and classes offered were valuable to me and I truly enjoyed going there! I made life-long friends as well... Read 1,059 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $24,798

• SAT range 990-1180

• Saint Leo, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,890 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 1,890 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $18,336

• SAT range 930-1150

• Sarasota, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  482 reviews

Sophomore: Most might see Ringling College of Art and Design and think, “That’s a clown college!” Just like I did. And you know what? They would be mistaken. Just like I was. It wasn’t until I happened upon an instagram ad for a Major in Screenwriting that I discovered just how mistaken I was. Ringling is an actual Art School that is DEEPLY connected into the industries of Filmmaking, Illustration, Video Game Design, Creative Writing with focuses on Scripts and Novels, and even Sculpting! More importantly, the school connects students with major players and companies within their respective fields (Disney, Pixar, Blizzard, etc.). Students from around the world learn to master their craft and network through incredible instructors and connected internships. Lastly, as a current student, I have had so much fun! I hated school until I started at Ringling. Now, I show up early and stay late, doing my best to learn and discover as much as I can. Come see for yourselves. Dreams really come true here!... Read 482 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $51,318

• SAT range —

• Miami Gardens, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  425 reviews

Niche User: Visiting the Campus, I have to say that the size isn't what necessarily matters. It's local and small, minimalistic. It has great programs and pretty well-known through-out Florida. I have high expectations and they've given me so many opportunities!... Read 425 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $28,550

• SAT range 860-1060

• Lake Wales, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  220 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Warner has been life changing! Our classroom settings are centered on Christ and how we can equip ourselves to serve him best in our professions. I have been able to get to know my professors on a personal level as well due to our smaller class sizes. Our staff does an incredible job of pouring into all of us spiritually and academically and I ur Student Life Office provides so many opportunities for students to get involved with our community. I encourage anyone who’s interested to come and visit campus!... Read 220 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $19,143

• SAT range 830-1070

• Miami Gardens, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.45 out of 5  818 reviews

Sophomore: The faculty and staff at Florida Memorial University treat you as if you were family. Professors are caring individuals who act in the best interests of their students. FMU is the only HBCU in South Florida. The "Cyberzone" has recently been rebuilt, and a new esports gaming facility has been constructed. A new Traders club has also been founded for students who are interested in stocks, cryptocurrency, forex, and financial literacy. Although FMU was the best option for my career goals in being one of the few universities in Florida that provides an aviation degree, I would like to see the university hold more campus activities for students to enhance school pride and student involvement.... Read 818 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $17,486

• SAT range —

• Daytona Beach, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,555 reviews

Freshman: This was my first college choice and I’m glad I chose this HBCU because the professors I have are very understanding, the campus is easy to get around and if you need help getting around there are upperclassmen who are willing to help, when you need assistance from counselors they respond ASAP. There are some other races on campus and they don’t feel discriminated against. The students of this university can connect with one another during parties or regular school events. The school has events which alumni come to visit and some celebrities as well.... Read 1,555 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,717

• SAT range 820-990

• Babson Park, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.39 out of 5  189 reviews

Freshman: I can't wait to start my 4 years here. Webber International University, also known as Webber, is a not-for-profit private institution of higher education. It is located on a 110-acre campus on the beautiful shores of Crooked Lake, Babson Park in Florida, and hosts students from more than 48 different countries. They are known for lots of sports. One sport I will be doing there is cheer. I went in as a back spot but will now be an instep base. I will be starting my major there for nursing and hope to graduate and start my journey to be a travel nurse. I know it will be hard but cant wait for the challenge!... Read 189 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $26,710

• SAT range 880-1060

• Orlando, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  511 reviews

Alum: The area is not the best, but all of my professors were very passionate about what they were teaching about and willing to help. The classrooms are small and that makes the attention from professor to alumni better.... Read 511 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $15,095

• SAT range —

• Jacksonville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.35 out of 5  208 reviews

Alum: When I first visited Edward Waters, I immediately felt at home. As a senior in high school, I wasn't sure whether I wanted to attend an HBCU or PWI, but after attending Edward Waters, I knew I had made the right decision to attend here, they showed me what an HBCU is all about and more. I adore the welcoming environment this university holds. Whether it's meeting new people or joining a new club or group, everyone—from the adults to your fellow students—will make you feel at home. Monthly events are hosted and you’re always in the loop about it. The cafeteria offers a variety of options, including vegan and soul food, in addition to Tiger Stripe Cafe. Sports are a hot topic here as well, and I for one enjoy watching our teams compete in our home gym or field because it's always entertaining whether we win or lose. I wouldn’t change nothing I was able to experience Edward Waters College change into Edward Waters University and they are only getting better. I’m glad I attended here.... Read 208 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $13,228

• SAT range 820-990