Overview
Florida Southern College is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Lakeland, Florida. The school accepts 56.6% of applicants and enrolls 2,607 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 56.6%
- Average SAT
- 1,185
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,080–1,290
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 26
- Total Enrollment
- 2,607
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Florida Southern College operates on rolling admissions, so apply early to maximize your housing and scholarship options. Your application gets reviewed as soon as it arrives, not batched with others at deadline time.
The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed campus houses the world's largest collection of Wright architecture at a single site. Mention specific buildings like the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel or Roux Library if you visit, as this architectural heritage shapes daily campus life and creates a distinctive learning environment you won't find elsewhere.
Strong applications highlight genuine interest in small class experiences and professor mentorship. With tiny class sizes, professors expect active participation and personal connection. Write about wanting direct access to faculty rather than teaching assistants, and explain how you'll contribute to classroom discussions.
The nursing program consistently produces high job placement rates, while computer science students benefit from modern labs and internship partnerships with local tech companies. Business majors can highlight interest in the Barney Barnett School's hands-on approach and connections to Central Florida industries.
Campus culture centers around water activities since Lake Hollingsworth borders the campus. Students regularly kayak, paddleboard, and attend lakeside events. Greek life involves about half the student body but doesn't dominate social life. The Honor Code operates on student trust, with take-home exams and unproctored testing common.
You'll fit well if you want professors who know your name and career goals by October. The student body tends toward conservative-leaning and involved in campus activities. School spirit runs high for athletics, particularly baseball, which has won multiple national championships.
Focus your essays on specific ways you'll engage in this close-knit community. Generic statements about wanting small classes won't work. Instead, research particular professors in your intended major and mention their work. Explain how you'll use the outdoor campus environment and Florida location for your interests.
Don't overlook the Honors Program application if you qualify. Honors students get priority registration, special seminars, and graduate school preparation that can be worth mentioning in your main essay if you're applying.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $29,664/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $42,360
- Students Receiving Aid
- 26%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 69.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $55,294/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 77.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Florida Southern College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Florida Southern College has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
When is the application deadline for Florida Southern College?
Florida Southern College uses rolling admissions, so applications are reviewed as they are received. Students should apply early for the best chance at admission and financial aid consideration.
What GPA do you need to get into Florida Southern College?
Florida Southern College does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The admissions process considers multiple factors including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.
Does Florida Southern College accept transfer students?
Yes, Florida Southern College accepts transfer students. Transfer applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and meet the same general admission requirements as first-year students.