The University of Central Florida is a comprehensive research university with over 69,500 students. As one of the nation's fastest growing and largest universities, UCF enrolls a diverse student body representing all 50 states and 149 countries. The University offers educational and research programs that complement the economy, with strong components in engineering, business, education, science, film, health, nursing, social sciences, and hospitality management. UCF's programs in communication and the fine arts help to meet the cultural and recreational needs of a growing metropolitan area. The University also offers many graduate programs leading to masters and doctoral degrees.
UCF has established extensive partnerships with businesses and industry in the central Florida area and beyond that provide students with exceptional research and learning experiences. These partnerships bring practical learning environments to UCF students through co-op and internship programs. Joint curriculum development strategies are used throughout the university.
The on-campus and campus-affiliated housing facilities include traditional residence halls, apartment-style options, and Greek housing that accommodates approximately 12,140 students. Several thousand students live in apartments located within walking distance of the campus.
About
From the School
Contact & Visit
Campus Visits Contact
Contact
Mr. Chris Dahlstrand
Director for Communications and Visitor Engagement
Director for Communications and Visitor Engagement
Address
12585 Gemini Blvd. S.
Orlando, FL 32816
Orlando, FL 32816
Phone
(407) 823-3000
Email
admission@ucf.edu
Experience College Life
Most Popular Places On Campus
Student Union
Recreation and Wellness Center
Bookstore (Foxtail Coffee)
Reflecting Pond
UCF Football Stadium
Recreation and Wellness Center
Bookstore (Foxtail Coffee)
Reflecting Pond
UCF Football Stadium
Most Popular Places Off Campus
Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Universal Studios Orlando featuring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Waterford Lakes Town Center
International Drive
Universal Studios Orlando featuring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Waterford Lakes Town Center
International Drive
Campus Tours
Campus Visiting Center
Mon - Fri
see website
(407) 823-3000
see website
(407) 823-3000
Campus Tours
Appointment Required: Yes
Dates: Year-round
Times: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. EDT
Average Length: 2 hours
Dates: Year-round
Times: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. EDT
Average Length: 2 hours
On Campus Interview
Campus Interviews
No
Information Sessions
Not Available
Times
Faculty and Coach Visits
Dates/Times Available
Class Visits
Dates/Times Available
Arrangements
Overnight Dorm Stays
Overnight Dorm Stays
Not Available
Transportation
Types of Transportation Available to Campus
-UCF Shuttle: The University of Central Florida shuttle services provides transportation from designated pick-up/drop-off areas within the residential communities, as well as designated stops on campus. Shuttles are accessible to riders with disabilities. The shuttle runs from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Thursdays. On Fridays, shuttles end services at 8:00 pm. Service is also provided to the Health Sciences Campus, Downtown campus, and Rosen School of Hospitality Management. A valid UCF issued ID card is required prior to boarding the UCF shuttles. For more information please visit https://parking.ucf.edu/transportation/off-campus/.
-Lynx bus system: LYNX is the public transportation provider for Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties, offering a variety of transportation programs including a route to the University of Central Florida along the apartment communities surrounding the school. Parking and Transportation Services has partnered with Lynx, the Central Florida Transit Authority to provide complimentary access to routes on-board lynx shuttles. A valid UCF student, Staff, and Faculty Identification card will be needed. For more information, please visit http://www.golynx.com
-Closest airport: Orlando International Airport
Driving Instructions to Campus
From Orlando International Airport:
Go east on 528 to 417 north. Take 417 North to University Blvd. Exit east onto University Blvd. Continue east on University Blvd. for approximately two miles and it will take you to the main entrance to the campus. Make a right turn at the first light, Gemini Blvd. Follow the signs to the Visitor?s Information Center.
From Orlando Sanford Airport:
Take Lake Mary Blvd. to 417 South. Take 417 South to the University Blvd. exit. Exit east onto University Blvd. Continue east on University Blvd. for approximately two miles and it will take you to the main entrance to the campus. Make a right turn at the first light, Gemini Blvd. At the first stop sign you will see directions to the visitor?s information booth.
From The North:
Option 1 ? Take the Florida Turnpike South to 408 east. Take 408 east to 417 North toward Sanford. Exit off of 417 to University Blvd. East. Take University Blvd 2 miles and it will take you to the main entrance of the campus. Make a right turn at the first light , Gemini Blvd. Follow the signs to the Visitor?s Information Center.
Option 2 ? Take I-95 South to SR 50 West. Take SR 50 to Alafaya Trail. Make a right hand turn on Alafaya Trail. Continue on Alafaya Trail to University Blvd. Make a right turn on University Blvd. and you are on campus. Make a right turn at the first light, Gemini Blvd. Then follow the signs to the Visitor's Information Center.
From The South and Melbourne Area:
Option 1 ?Take the Florida Turnpike north and exit onto I-4 East. Continue until you reach 408 east. Take 408 east to 417 North toward Sanford. Exit off of 417 to University Blvd East. Continue on University Blvd. for 2 miles and it will take you to the main entrance of the campus. Make a right turn at the first light, Gemini Blvd. Follow the signs to the Visitor?s Information Center.
Option 2 ? Take I-95 north to 520 West. Continue West and the road will merge with SR 50. Take SR 50 West to Alafaya Trail. Make a right turn on Alafaya Trail. Continue for approximately 2 miles to University Blvd. Make a right turn on University Blvd. and you will be on campus. Make a right turn at the first light,Gemini Blvd. Follow the signs to the Visitor?s Information Center.
From The East, Titusville and Daytona:
Option 1 ? Take Highway 50 West to Alafaya Trail. Turn right on Alafaya Trail, go north for two miles. Turn right onto University Blvd. and you are on campus. Make a right turn at the first light Gemini Blvd. Follow the signs to the Visitor?s Information Center.
Option 2 ? Take I-4 West to 417 South. Exit off of 417 at University Blvd. East. Continue on University Blvd East and it will take you to the main entrance of the campus. Make a right turn at the first light, Gemini Blvd. Follow the signs to the Visitor?s Information Center.
From The Tampa Area:
Take I-4 east to 408 east toward Titusville. Take 408 to 417 North toward Sanford. Exit off of 417 at University Blvd.East. Continue going on University Blvd and it will take you to the main entrance of the campus. Make a right turn at the first light, Gemini Blvd. Follow the signs to the Visitor?s Information Center.
Local Accommodations
Celeste Hotel
4105 N Alafaya Trail
Orlando, FL 32826
407-207-4700
Best Western Plus
12101 Challenger Parkway
Orlando, FL 32826
407-737-7303
DoubleTree by Hilton
12125 High Tech Ave.
Orlando, FL 32817
407-275-9000
Fairfield Inn and Suites
3420 Lake Lynda Dr.
Orlando, FL 32817
407-270-6480
Hampton Inn & Suites
3450 Quadrangle Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32817
407-282-0029
Hilton Garden Inn Orlando East / UCF Area
1959 N. Alafaya Trail
Orlando, FL 32826
407-992-5000
Holiday Inn Orlando East - UCF Area
1724 Alafaya Trail
Orlando, FL 32817
407-658-9008
Homewood Suites by Hilton
3028 N. Alafaya Trail
Orlando, FL 32826
407-282-0067
La Quinta
11805 Research Parkway
Orlando, FL 32826
407-737-6075
Marriott Courtyard
12000 Collegiate Way
Orlando, FL 32817
407-277-7676
Residence Inn Orlando East/UCF Area
11651 University Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32817
407-513-9000
Save SchoolAdmissions
Admissions
Overall
From The School
A freshman applicant is a student with fewer than 12 hours of college coursework after high school graduation. The most important criteria in the admission decision for these applicants is the high school academic record, rigor of coursework, grade point average, grade trends, and SAT I or ACT test scores. UCF operates on a rolling admission basis. Students are generally notified of their initial admission decision within two to three weeks after receipt of the application and all supporting documents. If the number of qualified applicants exceeds the number that the university is permitted to enroll, a waiting list will be established.
All applicants must have earned a minimum of 18 high school academic units (yearlong courses that are not remedial in nature). These include 4 units of English (3 must include substantial writing), 4 units of mathematics at or above algebra I, 3 units of natural science (2 must include a laboratory), 3 units of social science, 2 units of one world language, and 2 units of academic electives. Grades in honors courses, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, AICE and dual enrollment courses are given additional weight in the GPA computation. Students must meet the Florida Board of Governors minimum eligibility to be considered for admission. Applicants should understand that the satisfaction of minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee admission to UCF.
Admission requirements for Transfer applicants vary by the number of college credit hours the student has successfully completed prior to enrolling at UCF. For complete details, go to http://admissions.ucf.edu/apply/transfer/. A transfer credit summary evaluation is provided to students once they are offered admission to UCF.
Students are encouraged to apply several months in advance. Transfers can apply online at http://admissions.ucf.edu/ and Freshmen can apply online at http://admissions.ucf.edu/ or through the Common Application. It is recommended that freshman students apply early during the fall semester of their senior year. Applications are accepted up to one year prior to the start of the term for which entry is desired. Priority application deadlines are May 1 for the fall term (July 1 for transfers), November 1 for the spring term, and March 1 for the summer term.
Overview
Applicants: 55,208
Acceptance Rate: 43%
Average HS GPA: 4.18
GPA Breakdown
71%
4.0
17%
3.75 - 3.99
11%
3.50 - 3.74
1%
3.25 - 3.49
Need to boost your grades? We can help.
Learn MoreSAT & ACT Test Scores
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
25th-75th percentile (enrolled students)
610 - 680
SAT Math
25th-75th percentile (enrolled students)
580 - 670
SAT Composite Scores
25th-75th percentile (enrolled students)
1200 - 1260
ACT Composite Scores
25th-75th percentile (enrolled students)
25 - 29
Testing Policies
Yes
Yes
Standardized testing policy for use in admission
Requires applicants to submit either the SAT or ACT
Deadlines
Regular — May 1
Other Admission Factors
Academic
Rigor of Secondary School Record
Academic GPA
Standardized Test Scores
Selectivity Rating
Get a personalized plan for a competitive application from an admissions expert.
Learn MoreAcademics
Academics
Overall
From The School
Academic Programs
The University offers the degrees of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Music Education, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Education, Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Social Work, and Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences.
Majors and Degrees Offered
These degrees are available in the colleges listed below, with majors or areas of specialization as indicated.
The College of Arts and Humanities offers degrees in art, architecture, emerging media, English, French and Francophone Studies, history, humanities and cultural studies, Latin American Studies, music, music education, philosophy, photography, religion and cultural studies, Spanish, studio art, theatre, theatre studies, and writing and rhetoric.
The College of Business Administration offers degrees in accounting, business economics, economics, finance, integrated business, management, real estate and marketing.
The College of Community Innovation and Education offers degrees in criminal justice, early childhood development and education, elementary education, emergency management, exceptional student education, health informatics and information management, health services administration, legal studies, nonprofit management, public administration, secondary education, teacher education, and technical education and industry training.
The College of Engineering and Computer Science offers degrees in aerospace engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, computer science, construction engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, industrial engineering, information technology and mechanical engineering.
The College of Health Professions and Sciences offers degrees in communication sciences and disorders, health sciences, kinesiology, and social work.
The College of Medicine and the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences offers degrees in biotechnology, medical laboratory sciences, and biomedical sciences.
The College of Nursing offers degrees in nursing.
The College of Optics and Photonics offers degrees in photonic science and engineering.
The College of Sciences offers degrees in actuarial science, anthropology, biology, chemistry, forensic science, international and global studies, mathematics, physics, political science, psychology, social sciences, sociology, and statistics.
The College of Undergraduate Studies offers degrees in environmental studies, integrative general studies, and interdisciplinary studies.
The Rosen College of Hospitality Management offers degrees in hospitality management, event management, entertainment management, restaurant and foodservice management, and senior living management.
The Nicholson School of Communication and Media offers degrees in advertising/public relations, communication and conflict, digital media, film, human communication, journalism, radio/television.
Pre-professional programs are offered in chiropractic, medicine (allopathic medicine (M.D.) and osteopathic medicine (D.O.)), occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, physician assistant, physical therapy, podiatry, public health, dentistry, veterinary and law.
Faculty and Class Information
Student/Faculty
28.6:1
Total Faculty
2,304
with Terminal Degree
1,725
1,175
Men
1,129
Women
718
Minority
55
International
Most frequent class size
20 - 29
Most frequent lab / sub section size
40 - 49
Graduation Rates
Graduate in 4 years
Graduate in 5 years
Graduate in 6 years
Majors
-
ARCHITECTURE AND RELATED SERVICES.
Architecture.
-
AREA, ETHNIC, CULTURAL, GENDER, AND GROUP STUDIES.
Latin American Studies.
-
BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES.
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.
Biomedical Sciences, General.
Biotechnology.
Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology.
Medical Microbiology and Bacteriology.
-
BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, MARKETING, AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES.
Accounting.
Actuarial Science.
Business Administration and Management, General.
Business/Commerce, General.
Business/Managerial Economics.
Finance, General.
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.
Hotel, Motel, and Restaurant Management.
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.
Meeting and Event Planning.
Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management.
Real Estate.
-
COMMUNICATION, JOURNALISM, AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Advertising.
Journalism.
Radio and Television.
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.
-
COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES.
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
Information Technology.
-
EDUCATION.
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.
Elementary Education and Teaching.
Music Teacher Education.
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.
Secondary Education and Teaching.
Special Education and Teaching, General.
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.
Trade and Industrial Teacher Education.
-
ENGINEERING.
Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical/Space Engineering.
Civil Engineering, General.
Computer Engineering, General.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering.
Industrial Engineering.
Laser and Optical Engineering.
Materials Engineering.
Mechanical Engineering.
Structural Engineering.
-
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS.
English Language and Literature, General.
Rhetoric and Composition.
-
FOREIGN LANGUAGES, LITERATURES, AND LINGUISTICS.
French Language and Literature.
Spanish Language and Literature.
-
HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist.
Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator.
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.
Long Term Care Administration/Management.
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.
-
HISTORY.
History, General.
-
HOMELAND SECURITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, FIREFIGHTING AND RELATED PROTECTIVE SERVICES.
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management.
-
LEGAL PROFESSIONS AND STUDIES.
Legal Studies, General.
-
LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, GENERAL STUDIES AND HUMANITIES.
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.
-
MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS.
Mathematics, General.
Statistics, General.
-
MULTI/INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES.
International/Global Studies.
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.
-
NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION.
Environmental Studies.
-
PARKS, RECREATION, LEISURE, AND FITNESS STUDIES.
Kinesiology and Exercise Science.
-
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES.
Philosophy.
Religion/Religious Studies.
-
PHYSICAL SCIENCES.
Chemistry, General.
Physics, General.
-
PSYCHOLOGY.
Psychology, General.
-
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONS.
Public Administration.
Social Work.
-
SOCIAL SCIENCES.
Anthropology.
Economics, General.
Political Science and Government, General.
Social Sciences, General.
Sociology.
-
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS.
Art/Art Studies, General.
Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management, General.
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.
Digital Arts.
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
Music Performance, General.
Photography.
Students Say
To match "having one of the largest student bodies in the country," the University of Central Florida features "nearly every class or degree imaginable." Students speak fondly of that size, especially when it comes to registration, where they say "it's easy to get the classes you want." They also appreciate the location, as "there are many opportunities with big companies and corporations for ... jobs and internships." Examples in action include the aeronautics department partnering "with NASA on new space-projects" and courses in 3D design that have led students "to start directly working with Universal Studios." One of the ways in which UCF accommodates so many students is with a mix of in-person and remote learning options. Some obvious favorites, like Wines of the World and a scuba class, require a physical presence for wine tastings and diving, but for most classes, students note "the experience online is just as robust" and the "classes are structured in a way that keeps students engaged." Regardless of how the class is organized, "most professors are interested and dedicated to their craft, and it shows in their teaching." As one student tells us: "If you need help, just ask and someone will jump through hoops to make sure you get what you need to succeed."
Degrees
Associate
Bachelor's
Certificate
Doctoral/Professional
Doctoral/Research
Master's
Post-Bachelor's certificate
Post-Master's certificate
Bachelor's
Certificate
Doctoral/Professional
Doctoral/Research
Master's
Post-Bachelor's certificate
Post-Master's certificate
Career Services
On-Campus Job Interviews Available
Yes
Career Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Opportunities at School
Coop
Experiential
Internship
Notable Faculty
Dr. Pappachan Kolattukudy
Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology and Microbiology
Dr. Peter Delfyett
Professor of Optics and Photonics, CREOL-Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers
Drs. Diane and Arlen Chase
Professors of Anthropology, Sociology and Anthropology
Dr. Jack Ballantyne
Professor of Chemistry and Forensic Science, Chemistry
Dr. Samuel Durrance
Professor of Aerospace Engineering and former NASA astronaut, Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering
Prominent Alumni
Michelle Akers
Two-time FIFA Women's World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist
Rick Cardenas
President and CEO, Darden Restaurants
Darin Edwards
Executive Director, COVID Program Leader, Moderna
Kelvin Manning
Deputy director, NASA?s John F. Kennedy Space Center
Alex Martins
CEO, Orlando Magic
Vinod Philip
Executive board member, Siemens Energy
Nicole Stott
Former NASA astronaut and co-founder of Space for Art Foundation
Academic Rating
75/99
Careers
Graduation Rates
Graduate in 4 years
Graduate in 5 years
Graduate in 6 years
Career Services
On-Campus Job Interviews Available
Yes
Career Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Opportunities at School
Coop
Experiential
Internship
ROI & Outcomes
Information from PayScale:
Starting Median Salary (Up to Bachelor's degree completed, only)
$61,600
Mid-Career Median Salary (Up to Bachelor's degree completed, only)
$105,500
Starting Median Salary (At least Bachelor's degree)
$63,900
Mid-Career Median Salary (At least Bachelor's degree)
$111,500
Percent High Job Meaning
51%
Percent STEM
19%
Students Say
Career Services is the university’s hub for all things job and internship related, and offers résumé critiques, an Employer Practice Interview Program, lunch and learns, and career expos. Plus, the more than 150,000 UCF graduates that still live in Orlando or central Florida also provide “networking capabilities out of the wazoo.” The UCF Lockheed Martin College Work Experience Program lets students get real-world training relevant to their major while still in school, and UCF has many connections to firms, “all of which [come] on campus in career expos so it's easier to look for a career for post-graduation or an internship while in college.”
Tuition & Aid
Tuition & Aid
Overview
From The School
Tuition, Room, Board and Fees
Approximate Tuition, Health Fee, Room and Board Annual Rates 2019-20:
Florida Resident
Tuition and Fees $6,368
Room and Board $10,010
Books (estimate) $1,200
Approximate Total / Annual Cost. $17,578
Florida Non-Resident
Tuition and Fees $22,466
Room and Board$10,010
Books (estimate) $1,200
Approximate Total / Annual Cost. $33,676
Based on 15 credit hours per semester, double room and meal plan.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is awarded according to each student's demonstrated need in relation to college costs and may include grants, loans, scholarships and part-time employment. Programs based on need include the Federal Pell Grant, Florida Student Assistance Grant, Federal Work-Study, Florida College Career Work-Study Program, and Federal Stafford Student Loan. To qualify for these programs, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The priority application deadline is December 1. Approximately 76 percent of UCF students receive some form of financial aid.
Dates
Application Deadlines
Jun 30
Notification Date
Mar 1
Required Forms
FAFSA
Financial Aid Statistics
Average Freshman Total Need-Based Gift Aid
$8,559
Average Undergraduate Total Need-Based Gift Aid
$8,202
Average Need-Based Loan
$4,597
Undergraduates who have borrowed through any loan program
33%
Average amount of loan debt per graduate
$21,257
Average amount of each freshman scholarship/grant package
$7,377
Financial aid provided to international students
No
Expenses per Academic Year
Tuition (In-State)
$6,368
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$22,467
Required Fees
$0
Average Cost for Books and Supplies
$1,000
Tuition / Fees Vary by Year of Study
No
Board for Commuters
Transportation for Commuters
$2,126
On-Campus Room and Board
$10,410
Comprehensive Fee
Available Aid
Financial Aid Methodology
Federal
Scholarships and Grants
Need-Based
Need-Based College/University Scholarship or Grant Aid from Institutional Funds
Need-Based Federal Pell
Need-Based Private Scholarships
Need-Based SEOG
Need-Based State Scholarships
Non-Need-Based
Institutional non-need-based scholarship or grant aid is available
Federal Direct Student Loan Programs
Direct PLUS Loans
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Federal Family Education Loan Programs (FFEL)
Federal Nursing Loans
Is Institutional Employment Available (other than Federal Work Study)
Yes
Direct Lender
No
Financial Aid Rating
83/99
Student Body
Student Body
Overall
From The School
Students participate in over 650 organizations, including special interest clubs, multicultural associations, fraternities and sororities, honor societies, and academic and pre-professional organizations. The Office of Student Involvement schedules a wide array of extracurricular programs, including concerts, movies, and guest speakers. The innovative LEAD Scholars Academy fosters leadership and service commitment through a comprehensive student development program for freshman. The Major Exploration Program (MEP) helps entering freshmen define their career goals and develop an academic strategy to reach their goals. UCF offers Air Force and Army ROTC programs.
The University of Central Florida is a member of the NCAA and the American Athletic Conference. All teams compete on the NCAA Division 1 Level. UCF's men's teams compete in intercollegiate baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, and tennis. Women's teams compete in basketball, cross-country, golf, rowing, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. Intercollegiate coed club activities include championship cheerleading, crew, and waterskiing teams. The university offers an extensive intramural sports program.
Student Body Profile
Total Undergraduate Enrollment
59,548
Foreign Countries Represented
144
Demographics
7.75%
Asian
9.18%
Black
30.75%
Hispanic
43.51%
Caucasian
2.89%
International
54% female
46% male
7% are out of state
70% are full time
30% are part time
Students Say
"My university is one of the largest in the nation and with that comes ... a mix of cultures, personalities, and traditions that allow for everyone at UCF to feel at home." Benefits of this "vast and diverse" student body extend throughout campus life, so you'll hear "many different ideas in the classroom." The only drawback for some is that the school's size "makes it difficult to make connections on a deeper level. You will see thousands of different faces every day." That's why students swear by the importance of clubs in forming relationships: "I was part of a club specifically for Latinos in the medical field, which made me feel included and seen on campus." While Knights hail from "all ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds," one student describes the "students at UCF" as "young and full of energy." Another student agrees: "Mostly everyone I've met since coming to UCF has been warm and welcoming." One student sums up their experience by saying, "I have studied with some of the brightest and best."
Campus Life
Campus Life
Overview
From The School
Location
The University of Central Florida: Competitive Advantages
A Focus on Undergraduate Education: We're committed to teaching and providing advising and academic support services for all students. Our undergraduates have access to state-of-the-art wireless buildings, high-tech classrooms and research labs, Web-based classes and an undergraduate research and mentoring program.
A Talented Student Body: As one of the fastest growing universities, total enrollment has reached over 69,500; 59,483 are undergraduates. Our emphasis on excellence in undergraduate education has produced many rewarding results: a Goldwater Scholarship awardee, a Rhodes Scholarship finalist, a Clarion awardee in Radio/Television, a Zonta International Amelia Earhart fellowship awardee, and internationally ranked Computer Science programming and Cyber Defense teams.
Career Opportunities: Our Career Services professionals help students gain practical experiences at NASA, schools, hospitals, high-tech companies, local municipalities, and the entertainment industry. UCF faculty sit on boards and planning committees, and our graduates make their mark in engineering, business, computer science, education, health care, science, tourism, film and public service.
An International Presence: With an international focus to our curricula and research programs, we currently enroll international students from 149 nations. Our study abroad programs and other study and research opportunities are available in Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia/Pacific Islands, South America, Latin America, and the Middle East.
A Spacious, Modern Campus, plus Orlando: UCF's 1,415-acre Main Campus in East Orlando provides a safe and serene setting for learning, with natural lakes and woodlands. Other campuses include the Rosen College of Hospitality Management Campus, UCF Downtown Campus, and the Health Sciences Campus. The university provides housing for approximately 12,140 students on campus and through affiliated housing. The many attractions of Orlando lie a short distance away: the Orlando Magic, the Orlando City Soccer Club, the Kennedy Space Center, major film studios, Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Sea World, and sandy beaches are all nearby.
Campus Facilities & Equipment
In addition to the academic programs offered on the Main Orlando campus, the Rosen College of Hospitality Management campus, the UCF Downtown campus, and the Health Sciences campus, upper division students can work toward a degree at 11 UCF Connect Campuses around the central Florida area. These campuses work cooperatively with local state colleges to provide all four years of course work in many academic areas. The library houses over 1.8 million print volumes and subscribes to more than 50,000 periodicals and journals (49,000 in electronic format). Students have access to an online computer catalog that provides information on the collections of the State University System libraries. An extensive online network of more than 500 computer PC's, laptops and iPads cover the campus. The Institute for Simulation and Training gives students the opportunity to pursue undergraduate research. The College of Optics and Photonics allows faculty members and students to work directly with industrial personnel in conducting basic and applied research at the regional and national level. The Central Florida Research Park, located next to the UCF campus, houses more than 145 high-technology firms and agencies with approximately 10,000 employees. This proximity fosters relationships between industry and the University, which strengthens the academic programs at UCF.
Off-Campus Opportunities
Career Services and Experiential Learning provides comprehensive and coordinated career development, enhances academic study, and builds ongoing partnerships with employers and the community. UCF is a participant in the National Student Exchange Consortium.
Campus Life
Undergrads living on campus
12%
Help finding off-campus housing
Yes
86/99
First-Year Students living on campus
68%
Campus Environment
Small Urban
96/99
Housing Options
Apartment Single
Dorms Coed
Dorms Coed
Frat Sorority
Other
Theme Housing
Other
Theme Housing
Students Say
If there's any doubt about school spirit for the University of Central Florida's Knights, just look "all around campus at all events...[for] the massive amounts of crowds (students and non-students) that come together." It helps that "athletics tickets are free for students" and "it's very popular to tailgate in Memory Mall before football games." Other popular hangout highlights are the on-campus arcade and the "rock climbing wall in the gym." UCF also features "a huge arboretum with trails; I am able to go for a short hike between my classes." Students are even enthusiastic about the parking garage, which is also used for band practices that can be enjoyed across campus: "My favorite memory here is going to a rooftop rock concert, the crowd was amazing, everyone participated and would help anyone that fell in the mosh pit."
With 650 student clubs and a thriving Greek scene, there are plenty of on-campus social events at any given time. Orlando itself also provides "big city energy" and is a great option for those who want to go "exploring new places" or visiting the familiar attractions of nearby Disney World and Universal. Those wanting a less-structured outdoors experience appreciate that "beaches and wildlife habitats" are just a 30-minute drive away.
Special Needs Admissions
Director
Adam Meyer
College Entrance Tests Required
Yes
Interview Required
No
Documentation Required for LD
Depends on the student situation.Documentation Required for ADHD
Depends on the student situation.Special Need Services Offered
Calculator allowed in exams
Yes
Dictionary allowed in exams
Yes
Computer allowed in exams
Yes
Spellchecker allowed in exams
Yes
Extended test time
Yes
Scribes
Yes
Proctors
Yes
Oral exams
No
Notetakers
Yes
Distraction-free environment
Yes
Accommodation for students with ADHD
Yes
Reading machine
Yes
Other assistive technology
Yes
Student Activities
Registered Student Organizations
618
Number of Honor Societies
26
Number of Social Sororities
23
Number of Religious Organizations
38
3% join a fraternity
6% join a sorority
Sports
Athletic Division
Division I
10% participate in intramural sports
Men's Sports (Knights)
7 Sports
Baseball
Basketball
Cheerleading
Football
Golf
Soccer
Tennis
Basketball
Cheerleading
Football
Golf
Soccer
Tennis
Women's Sports (Knights)
11 Sports
Basketball
Cheerleading
Crew Rowing
Cross Country
Golf
Soccer
Softball
Tennis
Track Field Indoor
Track Field Outdoor
Volleyball
Cheerleading
Crew Rowing
Cross Country
Golf
Soccer
Softball
Tennis
Track Field Indoor
Track Field Outdoor
Volleyball
Student Services
Day Care
Health
Army ROTC Offered on-campus
Air Force ROTC Offered on-campus
Health
Army ROTC Offered on-campus
Air Force ROTC Offered on-campus
Sustainability
91/99
AASHE STARS® rating
Silver
School Has Formal Sustainability Committee
Yes
Sustainability-focused degree available
Yes
School employs a sustainability officer
Yes
Public GHG inventory plan
Yes
Available Transportation Alternatives
Bike Share
Yes
School Adopted A Policy Prohibiting Idling
Yes
School Developed Bicycle Plan
Yes
Data provided by Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), STARS®, as of March, 2024.
Campus Security Report
The Jeanne Clery Act requires colleges and universities to disclose their security policies, keep a public crime log, publish an annual crime report and provide timely warnings to students and campus employees about a crime posing an immediate or ongoing threat to students and campus employees.
Please visit The Princeton Review’s page on campus safety for additional resources: http://www.princetonreview.com/safety
The Princeton Review publishes links directly to each school's Campus Security Reports where available. Applicants can also access all school-specific campus safety information using the Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Cutting Tool provided by the Office of Postsecondary Education of the U.S. Department of Education:
Other Information
Campus-wide Internet Network
Yes
% of Classrooms with Wireless Internet
100
Fee for Network Use
No
Partnerships with Technology Companies
Yes
Personal computer included in tuition for each student
No
Discounts Available with Hardware Vendors
Yes
Description
Connection, CDW, SHI, Cisco, Dell, Apple, HP, Lenovo, on-campus computer store (http://tpc.ucf.edu)
Wellness Program/Clinical Offerings
Institution has a mental health/wellness program that makes counseling, referral, and well-being services available to all students
Yes
Mental Health Website
Education & Training
Types of training available for students and faculty/staff
Program
Availability
Available for all students;
Available for faculty & staff;
Available for faculty & staff;
Not Reported
Not Reported
Available for all students;
Available for faculty & staff;
Available for faculty & staff;
Not Reported
Other:
Available for all students;
Available for faculty & staff;
Available for faculty & staff;
Other trainings description:
Kognito, TAO, Togetherall, Protocall (afterhours crisis line)
Engaging the Whole Campus
Institution has a Chief Behavioral Health Officer (and/or Chief Wellness Officer)
Yes
Additional groups:
Trans, Students of the Spectrum
Please provide details on specific trainings:
CAPS staff are always engaged in trainings CAPS offers professional development trainings for staff 6 times a year on different topics, issues and populations over the years. Some populations have been (serving LGB, Trans, Students on the Spectrum, OCD, Black Identified Students, LatinX students, APPI students just to name a few)
Peer-to-Peer
Institution has peer-to-peer offerings relating to mental health
Yes
Details on offerings:
Wellness and Health Promotion Services provides peer education on a variety of health topics including stress management and referral to mental health resources. A peer-to-peer education model is used in which students teach their peers techniques around health and lifestyle. The educators meet students where they are, on campus. Many students interact with the office multiple times per week on different health topics on campus, often times not even coming into the office.
Residential Life
Institution incorporates mental health and wellness into the residential experience
Yes
A brief description of offerings:
Housing and Residence Life, specifically Residence Life and Education, provides Question, Persuade, and Refer training to our student and professional staff three times a year. HRL also works very closely with UCF Cares services to monitor and support any UCF student in distress, residential or non-residential.
Student Orientation
Students who are provided an opportunity to participate in mental-health-orientation activities
First-year students
Services offered
Incoming transfer students
Services offered
Returning students
Services offered
Entering graduate students
Services offered
Mental Health in the Curriculum
The institution offers for-credit mental health/well-being education for students
Yes, optional
Details of for-credit offering:
Within the Success in College course there is a section dedicated to mental health. CAPS also offers a certificate program regarding completing curriculum on CAPS mental health platforms. https://caps.sdes.ucf.edu/mental-health-resource-awareness/
The institution offers non-credit mental health/well-being education for students
Yes, optional
Details of non-credit offering:
CAPS can offer up to 30 WoW workshops in a semester. https://caps.sdes.ucf.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2024/01/CAPS-Well-Being-Online-Workshops-Spring-2024.pdf
Off-Campus Offerings
Institution offers referrals to off-campus counseling services
Yes
Health and Counseling Center Accreditation
Institution's counseling center is accredited
Yes
Accrediting body
International Association of Counseling Services
Taking and Returning from Medical Leave
Institution has an official support program in place for students returning from mental health leave of absence
Yes
Counseling Demand
Number of months a year counseling center is open and fully staffed
12 months
