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University of Florida commands the state's academic market with a 91.5% graduation rate that towers above all competitors, yet costs students just $6,351 annually after aid. This remarkable value proposition reflects Florida's commitment to accessible higher education through programs like Bright Futures scholarships, which help state residents navigate college costs that range from UF's bargain pricing to University of Miami's $36,803 premium. The earnings gap tells an equally compelling story, with Miami graduates commanding $75,328 median salaries compared to $38,518 for Bethune-Cookman alumni. Florida's 13 Division I institutions serve over 300,000 students across a state where tourism, aerospace, and healthcare industries create abundant internship and career opportunities. The acceptance rate spectrum spans from Miami's selective 18.9% to Stetson University's open-door 93.8% policy, ensuring pathways for students across all academic profiles. State universities dominate enrollment figures, with UCF's 59,095 students making it one of America's largest institutions, while private colleges like Jacksonville University maintain intimate 2,649-student communities. Florida's no-income-tax advantage allows graduates to maximize their earning potential in cities from Miami's financial district to Tampa's medical corridors.
13
Schools
$14,689
Avg. Net Price
$58,081
Avg. Earnings
66.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

NCAA Division I Colleges in Florida

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 34,102 $6,351 91.5% 23.4%
2 31,812 $10,997 83.0% 25.0%
3 59,095 $10,650 75.1% 41.0%
4 36,299 $10,043 74.6% 43.9%
5 38,761 $9,133 73.9% 63.9%
6 12,570 $36,803 84.2% 18.9%
7 13,915 $10,353 68.2% 70.5%
8 7,516 $15,847 51.9% 32.9%
9 23,458 $8,001 64.3% 81.3%
10 13,809 $10,319 56.0% 74.4%
11 2,649 $26,255 57.0% 57.7%
12 2,414 $14,892 27.8% 85.0%
13 2,292 $21,318 62.8% 93.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Florida such an strong value among Florida Division I schools?

University of Florida delivers a 91.5% graduation rate while charging just $6,351 annually after financial aid, creating the best value proposition in the state. Graduates earn $71,588 median salaries, and the 23.35% acceptance rate ensures academic rigor. With 34,102 students, UF combines affordability with strong outcomes.

How do graduation rates vary across Florida's Division I colleges?

Graduation rates span from University of Florida's leading 91.5% down to Bethune-Cookman University's 27.8%, creating a 63-percentage-point gap. Private institutions like University of Miami achieve 84.2% rates, while state schools typically range from 51.9% at FAMU to 83% at Florida State University.

Is University of Miami worth its high cost compared to state alternatives?

University of Miami costs $36,803 annually but produces graduates earning $75,328 median salaries, the highest in Florida. With an 84.2% graduation rate and 18.94% acceptance rate, Miami offers exclusivity and strong career outcomes that may justify the premium over state schools costing around $10,000.

Does enrollment size affect graduation success at Florida Division I schools?

Large schools show mixed results: UCF enrolls 59,095 students with a solid 75.1% graduation rate, while smaller institutions vary dramatically. Jacksonville University's 2,649 students achieve 57% graduation rates, but tiny Stetson University with 2,292 students reaches 62.8%, suggesting size alone doesn't determine success.

Where do Florida Division I graduates earn the most after college?

University of Miami graduates top earnings at $75,328, followed by University of Florida at $71,588 and Jacksonville University at $68,010. The private institutions generally outpace state schools, though Florida State graduates still earn solid $61,675 median salaries. Bethune-Cookman graduates earn the least at $38,518.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.