Resources for Students in Florida

Considering college in Florida? Read on to discover valuable resources, including college planning, rankings, and news in the Sunshine State.

Going to College in the Sunshine State

Whether you’re fresh out of high school or returning to college as an experienced professional, Florida is home to hundreds of colleges and universities and inevitably has a school that meets your unique needs.

From the massive University of Central Florida — one of the largest schools in the country — to the more intimate and liberal arts-centric Rollins College, there’s no shortage of higher education options in the Sunshine State. The trick is finding the school that’s right for you.

Throughout this page, we’ve compiled some essential resources to assist you in your college search. From our annual ranking of the best colleges in Florida to career pathways and Florida-specific college news, we’ve got you covered.

Best Colleges in Florida + Full List of Schools

Best Colleges in Florida + Full List of Schools

Check out our guide to the best colleges in Florida to learn about education options and career paths in the Sunshine State.

Reese Lopez

by Reese Lopez

Updated August 19, 2024

Academic Career Pathways

Master of Social Work Programs in Florida

Master of Social Work Programs in Florida

Thomas Broderick

by Thomas Broderick

Updated July 1, 2024

How to Become a Teacher in Florida

How to Become a Teacher in Florida

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

by Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

Updated August 14, 2024

The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida

The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida

Maura Deering, J.D.

by Maura Deering, J.D.

Updated July 17, 2023

College Planning

Florida 529 Plan: What College Savers Should Know

Florida 529 Plan: What College Savers Should Know

There are two Florida 529 plans — a traditional college savings account and a prepaid tuition plan. Find out more in our report.

Lyss Welding

by Lyss Welding

Updated December 8, 2023


College Rankings

Best Online Colleges in Florida 2025

Best Online Colleges in Florida 2025

Nalea Ko

by Nalea Ko

Updated December 4, 2024

Best Community Colleges in Florida: All 80+ Schools

Best Community Colleges in Florida: All 80+ Schools

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

by Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

Updated October 31, 2023

Colleges in Miami: A Complete List

Colleges in Miami: A Complete List

Juliann Scholl, Ph.D.

by Juliann Scholl, Ph.D.

Updated October 16, 2023

Colleges in Orlando, Florida: All 6 Schools

Colleges in Orlando, Florida: All 6 Schools

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

by Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

Updated October 16, 2023

Find a Coding Bootcamp

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Colleges

What is the hardest school to get into in Florida?

While admission data varies, the University of Miami is consistently one of the hardest schools to get into in Florida, with an admission rate of just 19%.

Just behind the University of Miami is the state’s flagship public institution: the University of Florida has an acceptance rate of about 30%. When applying to schools, be sure to consider multiple institutions, including safety schools, where it’s likely that you’ll gain admission.

What is the largest college in Florida?

With more than 70,000 enrolled students, the University of Central Florida (UCF) is the largest 4-year institution in the Sunshine State. Alongside the school’s traditional campus-based programming, UCF is also home to a robust online program, with 9% of the study population enrolled as virtual learners.

How many colleges are in Florida?

From the University of Florida and Florida State systems, to the Florida College System that manages the state’s community and technical colleges, Florida is home to over 100 four-year public and private colleges and universities.

Additionally, Florida is home to a long list of standout private institutions, including the University of Miami and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

All Florida Resources

Florida Proposal Would Revoke In-State Tuition for Undocumented College Students

Florida Proposal Would Revoke In-State Tuition for Undocumented College Students

Matthew Arrojas

by Matthew Arrojas

Updated December 14, 2024

New College of Florida Trashes Library Books, Clears Gender Studies Program Shelves

New College of Florida Trashes Library Books, Clears Gender Studies Program Shelves

Margaret Attridge

by Margaret Attridge

Updated August 20, 2024

Specialized ‘Blue Economy’ MBA Launches for Maritime Industry

Specialized ‘Blue Economy’ MBA Launches for Maritime Industry

Bennett Leckrone

by Bennett Leckrone

Updated August 13, 2024

FIU Names Its Football Stadium After Pitbull

FIU Names Its Football Stadium After Pitbull

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated August 8, 2024

University of South Florida Announces Plans for AI, Cybersecurity College

University of South Florida Announces Plans for AI, Cybersecurity College

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated March 26, 2024

Florida Tech Developing Artificial Intelligence Degree

Florida Tech Developing Artificial Intelligence Degree

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated March 21, 2024

NAACP: Black Student-Athletes Should Reconsider Going to Public Colleges, Universities in Florida

NAACP: Black Student-Athletes Should Reconsider Going to Public Colleges, Universities in Florida

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated March 14, 2024

Florida Bill Would Eliminate Financial Aid for Students ‘Promoting’ Hamas

Florida Bill Would Eliminate Financial Aid for Students ‘Promoting’ Hamas

Matthew Arrojas

by Matthew Arrojas

Updated February 23, 2024

Nonprofit Partners With Colleges to Offer Computer Science Internship Program

Nonprofit Partners With Colleges to Offer Computer Science Internship Program

Evan Castillo

by Evan Castillo

Updated February 21, 2024

Our Editorial Policy and Standards

Accuracy and editorial integrity are just a few of the values we at BestColleges pledge to uphold for the students who rely on us. We are committed to providing students with the educational resources they need to achieve their goals.

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