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PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES IN FLORIDA

Florida offers a range of excellent universities for college applications, known for their strong academic programs, diverse student communities, and vibrant campus life. Here are the twelve universities that are part of the Florida State University System:

  1. Florida A&M University (FAMU) - Tallahassee

  2. Florida Atlantic University (FAU) - Boca Raton

  3. Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) - Fort Myers

  4. Florida International University (FIU) - Miami

  5. Florida Polytechnic University - Lakeland

  6. Florida State University (FSU) - Tallahassee

  7. New College of Florida (NCF) - Sarasota

  8. University of Central Florida (UCF) - Orlando

  9. University of Florida (UF) - Gainesville

  10. University of North Florida (UNF) - Jacksonville

  11. University of South Florida (USF) -Tampa (+ St. Petersburg & Sarasota-Manatee campuses)

  12. University of West Florida (UWF) - Pensacola

This page contains essential information for students applying to universities in Florida.

Information for Florida Students!

FLORIDA PRIVATE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES (PCUF Member Institutions)

  • Advent Health University

  • Barry University

  • Eckerd College

  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

  • Flagler College

  • Florida College

  • Florida Institute of Technology

  • Florida Southern College

  • Jacksonville University

  • Keiser University – Flagship Campus

  • Lynn University

  • Nova Southeastern University

  • Ringling College of Art and Design

  • Rollins College

  • Saint Leo University

  • Southeastern University

  • Stetson University

  • University of Miami

  • University of Tampa

  • Warner University

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FLORIDA BRIGHT FUTURES SCHOLARSHIP

The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program establishes lottery-funded scholarships to acknowledge and reward high-achieving graduates from Florida high schools.

We strongly recommend that all EduPlan students complete this application by November 15. This program offers awards of up to 100% of tuition, and YOU could qualify!

The applications open on October 1 every year and are open to all Florida residents. All students are required to fill in the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA). To determine your eligibility, review the Bright Futures Student Handbook.

The program offers two types of scholarships:

Florida Academic Scholar

The Florida Academic Scholars program provides 100% of funding for a public program of study (tuition and fees only). It is a highly competitive program. To qualify, applicants must have a minimum weighted GPA of 3.5. Additionally, they must obtain a minimum score of 29 on the ACT or a score of 1330 on the SAT. They must also complete at least 100 hours of service.

Florida Medallion Scholar

The Florida Medallion Scholars program provides 75% of funding for a public program of study (tuition and fees only). To qualify, applicants must have a minimum 3.0 weighted GPA and obtain a minimum score of 25 on the ACT or a score of 1190 on the SAT. They must also complete at least 75 hours of service.

For more details, visit the official page - FLORIDA BRIGHT FUTURES SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

For a tutorial on how to fill out this application, visit this LINK!

UF INNOVATION ACADEMY

The Innovation Academy (IA) at the University of Florida offers a unique opportunity for aspiring applicants seeking an alternative academic pathway. This program offers enrollment during the spring and summer semesters, allowing students to participate in internships or study abroad during the fall. IA offers a distinctive learning experience centered on innovation, creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Students can choose from over 25 majors while completing a minor in Innovation, exclusive to IA participants.

Students also benefit from a close-knit learning community and dedicated residential facilities. We highly recommend considering this program as a valuable option for those looking to enhance their academic experience at UF.

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UF APPEAL PROCESS

Admission to the University of Florida is extremely competitive, and each year, many qualified applicants are deferred or denied due to limited space. In such cases, students may consider submitting an appeal if they have significant new information that strengthens their candidacy beyond what was initially included in the application.

Our experience has shown that successful appeals require new, compelling evidence—something that clearly demonstrates improved qualifications or achievements since the initial submission. Examples may include:

  • A substantial increase in academic performance (e.g., higher GPA or notable improvement in rigor).

  • New standardized test scores that exceed previously submitted results.

  • Recent honors, awards, or distinctions earned after the application deadline.

  • Leadership accomplishments, major projects, or meaningful contributions that highlight growth or initiative.

  • Updated information about personal circumstances that may have affected academic performance at the time of application.

If you believe you have such new and verifiable information, we strongly recommend pursuing the appeal process, accompanied by a letter of support from your school counselor. Appeals must be submitted within the university’s stated timeline and should be concise, factual, and supported by documentation.

Please keep in mind that appeal reversals are rare and are typically granted only when the new information is exceptionally strong, specific, and relevant to the admission decision.