Florida State University vs University of Florida: A Data-Driven Comparison
Both universities offer competitive admission, with UF slightly more selective at a 23.35% acceptance rate compared to FSU's 25.04%. The difference represents only about 500 additional admits per 10,000 applicants.
Cost structures differ significantly. While FSU charges less for in-state tuition ($5,656 vs $6,381), UF provides better financial aid, resulting in a lower average net price of $6,351 compared to FSU's $10,997. Out-of-state students face a substantial gap, with UF costing $9,873 more annually.
UF demonstrates stronger academic outcomes across key metrics. Its six-year graduation rate of 91.5% surpasses FSU's 83%, and its 97.09% retention rate edges out FSU's 95.64%. Both maintain similar student-faculty ratios (UF 16:1, FSU 17:1).
Post-graduation financial outcomes favor UF graduates, who earn a median of $71,588 after ten years versus FSU's $61,675. UF graduates also carry less debt ($15,000 vs $18,000). This $9,913 earnings advantage helps offset UF's higher sticker price over time.
Both universities offer NCAA Division I athletics and large campus experiences, with UF enrolling 34,102 students compared to FSU's 31,812.
The choice often depends on priorities: FSU attracts students seeking lower upfront costs and strong campus traditions in Tallahassee, while UF appeals to those prioritizing academic outcomes, financial aid availability, and long-term earning potential despite higher initial expenses.
Both universities offer competitive admission, with UF slightly more selective at a 23.35% acceptance rate compared to FSU's 25.04%. The difference represents only about 500 additional admits per 10,000 applicants.
Cost structures differ significantly. While FSU charges less for in-state tuition ($5,656 vs $6,381), UF provides better financial aid, resulting in a lower average net price of $6,351 compared to FSU's $10,997. Out-of-state students face a substantial gap, with UF costing $9,873 more annually.
UF demonstrates stronger academic outcomes across key metrics. Its six-year graduation rate of 91.5% surpasses FSU's 83%, and its 97.09% retention rate edges out FSU's 95.64%. Both maintain similar student-faculty ratios (UF 16:1, FSU 17:1).
Post-graduation financial outcomes favor UF graduates, who earn a median of $71,588 after ten years versus FSU's $61,675. UF graduates also carry less debt ($15,000 vs $18,000). This $9,913 earnings advantage helps offset UF's higher sticker price over time.
Both universities offer NCAA Division I athletics and large campus experiences, with UF enrolling 34,102 students compared to FSU's 31,812.
The choice often depends on priorities: FSU attracts students seeking lower upfront costs and strong campus traditions in Tallahassee, while UF appeals to those prioritizing academic outcomes, financial aid availability, and long-term earning potential despite higher initial expenses.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Florida State University | University of Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 25.0% | 23.4% |
| SAT Average | 1,290 | 1,395 |
| Enrollment | 31,812 | 34,102 |
| In-State Tuition | $5,656 | $6,381 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $18,786 | $28,659 |
| Net Price | $10,997 | $6,351 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 83.0% | 91.5% |
| Retention Rate | 95.6% | 97.1% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $61,675 | $71,588 |
| Median Debt | $18,000 | $15,000 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| Florida State University | University of Florida | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Industrial Engineering. | $71,643 | Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $79,037 |
| Computer Engineering. | $71,015 | Computer Engineering. | $77,715 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $68,918 | Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $75,405 |
| Chemical Engineering. | $68,305 | Systems Engineering. | $74,279 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | $61,303 | Chemical Engineering. | $73,145 |