Founded in 1991, Florida Gulf Coast University. is a Public college. Located in Florida, which is a city setting in Florida, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 13,733 full time undergraduate students, and 1,088 full time graduate students.
The Florida Gulf Coast University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 22:1. There are 463 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Florida Gulf Coast University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
56%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
30
SAT Range
990-1150
ACT Range
22-26
Admissions at FGCU are considered Selective, with ,70% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 17 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
76% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 35% were in the top quarter, and 9% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Florida Gulf Coast University.
3%
“We”re apathetic”
23%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
15%
“Sometimes, but not often”
64%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
16%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
28%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
72%
“I feel extremely safe”
35%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
17%
“We bought the gear”
48%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
18%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
66%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
11%
“We”re a very artistic group”
4%
“Haven”t met them”
1%
“Available in class”
56%
“They keep regular office hours”
38%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
30%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
62%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
3%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
48%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
29%
“We only party on weekends”
21%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
8%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
64%
“There might be people who do”
19%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
8%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
3%
“We”re apathetic”
23%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
15%
“Sometimes, but not often”
64%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
16%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
28%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
72%
“I feel extremely safe”
35%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
17%
“We bought the gear”
48%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
18%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
66%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
11%
“We”re a very artistic group”
4%
“Haven”t met them”
1%
“Available in class”
56%
“They keep regular office hours”
38%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
30%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
62%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
3%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
48%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
29%
“We only party on weekends”
21%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
8%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
64%
“There might be people who do”
19%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
8%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
3%
“We”re apathetic”
23%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
15%
“Sometimes, but not often”
64%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
16%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
28%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
72%
“I feel extremely safe”
35%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
17%
“We bought the gear”
48%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
18%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
66%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
11%
“We”re a very artistic group”
4%
“Haven”t met them”
1%
“Available in class”
56%
“They keep regular office hours”
38%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
30%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
62%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
169 Students rated on-campus housing 4.1 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
122 Students rated off-campus housing 3.9 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
192 Students rated campus food 3.6 stars. 24 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
198 Students rated campus facilities 4.5 stars. 60 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
198 Students rated class size 4.5 stars. 61 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
198 Students rated school activities 4 stars. 35 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
199 Students rated local services 4.3 stars. 55 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
199 Students rated academics 4.2 stars. 46 % gave the school a 5.0.
Florida Gulf Coast University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Florida Gulf Coast University?
97 Students rated Florida Gulf Coast University
Addison
Prospective04/07/2025
Florida Gulf Coast University is the perfect place to pursue my dreams. My interest was first sparked when my older cousin committed to FGCU, which encouraged me to broaden my horizons and explore schools outside of Wisconsin. The more I researched, the more I found myself drawn to the school. From its picturesque campus to its lively community, every detail deepened my excitement for the possibility of my future.
What truly sets FGCU apart for me is its exceptional psychology program, renowned as one of the best in the country. This aligns perfectly with my passion and future goal of becoming a pediatric psychologist. The smaller student population is another aspect I love一it ensures one-on-one interaction with the professors, creating a comforting learning atmosphere. Equally reassuring are the safety precautions of the campus, providing a secure space to live and learn.
And then there's the location一how could I resist? On the west coast of South Florida, FGCU offers year-round sunshine, a welcoming change compared to Wisconsin’s frigid winters. Beyond the weather, the area itself provides a perfect blend of energy and tranquility. The campus is walkable and features easy transportation, while nearby stores and restaurants provide endless opportunities for enjoyment and fun. It’s the perfect balance that not only makes the university feel like the perfect school but also the perfect home.
devlyn
Prospective04/02/2025
FGCU has a beautiful, peaceful campus that would allow me to focus on my studies if I were to attend there. FGCU has many different programs that allow room for others to try different things which I believe is important for college freshman. As well as, FGCU has many resources for those who have learning disabilities or any problems, they provide help not just educationally but mentally as well. FGCU takes care of their students and faculty in many ways in order for them to succeed. FGCU offers many opportunities to create life-long friendships and relationships with dorm life, classes, and by providing job opportunities on campus. This school has impressed me so much to the point that I have applied there and will be attending in the Fall of 2025. I cant wait to experience college at FGCU!
Kayleigh
It is a great school for students who have just started college and want to integrate into university life with still a small school feeling. The school has a moderate amount of students, but even the largest of classes are only around 50 students with most between 20-30. There is a great connection with the professors and it is obvious that most, if not all, professors truly care about their students. Additionally, the area is great. Fort Meyers is a pretty big city in South-West Florida and has lots of activities for college-age students. Plus, the school it self has a lot of RSOs or Registered Student Organizations created by students for pretty much any and every hobby.
Cory
I have a good opinion about this university. It is a nice school that doesn't have the craziness of other schools within the state. The faculty is generally quite helpful and active, and while the school can be quiet at times, there is still much to do within the area, especially since interstate 75 is right nearby. The environmental focus of the school is one of its greatest aspects, given it's drive to also help the communities in and around it's area.
Kalysta
My opinion is that this is an amazing university, which is accommodating to nearly everybody who attends. For myself, who has a disability and is part of the LGBTQ+ community, I never find myself feeling completely in danger of my safety. Everything is politically and ethically diverse, yet not in an overbearing way.
Olivia
attending fgcu is the worst decision of my life. this school is a joke to most floridians and you have a way better chance of succeeding after graduation at literally any other public college in florida. the only good thing i can say about fgcu is that they are very environmentally friendly. other than that, be prepared to be surrounded by people who got below average grades in high school and only like to party. the housing is also crazy expensive and you have to walk forever to get anywhere. professors are hit or miss and lately, there have been huge campus safety issues. plus, no one follows covid precautions, especially in the freshman dorms. DO NOT ATTEND THIS SCHOOL!!!!!
Alanna
Florida Gulf Coast University offers a unique educational experience. Placing an emphasis on environment, all students learn about the history and mission of the place we spend most of our time. While not every professor can get to know you, I have had the experience of multiple influential professors in my academic career. I will always be grateful for the educational tools FGCU had equipped me with.
Jordy
It's the perfect University for me, it's not too big but not too small. Academically, they are pretty good and the professors are great. Due to covid, there isn't a lot of events as before (that's what I've heard) but there are weekly events technically and they are very strict about how clean everything is, the distance within people and wearing your mask at all times.
Jeannie
I have applied at FGCU for Fall of 2021, my older brother attends the university, it is a great school and campus!! The campus is clean and beautiful. The class sizes are small and there is always academic assistance available if needed. There are a variety of activities on campus ranging from basketball to wake boarding, there is literally something for everyone!! The dorm rooms are nice and spacious, each person has their own private room. The RAs are nice and helpful and there are numerous activities to get involved with in the dorms. Overall, it is a great place to attend college, I can hardly wait!!!
zoey
It has a nice environment, not too many people so it’s pretty calm. The class sizes aren’t too big so it’s easy to get help from a professor, and it’s easy to keep track of what’s due and when it’s due. The dorms are nice, and everyone has their own bedroom here.
Kimberly
I love it--financial aid could be better for out of state students but it's a great school. I chose to transfer in for my sophomore year and I picked the cheapest housing option which meant I had to share a room but I got a whole apartment with 3 other girls who became my best friends.
Jessica
When searching for a school, there is always the question of," Is this the right one for me?" Catching a glimpse of campus life on a S.T.E.M. camp trip in the Summer of 2019, I grew a connection for the campus that drew me in completely. The faculty members had guided us through some of the courses available at the school such as: forensics, robotics, engineering, and water metering. They were all dedicated to delve into the topics and answered any and all questions or concerns so that we could understand the course. The environment was cheerful and always lively as I never had a frown plastered on my face. When being shown the dormitory options at the university, I favored the set up and how simplistically adorable it was. At that point. I knew that this was the right university for me, not only because of how close it was to my house but how uplifting the campus truly was. Upon enrolling recently, I am eager to experience first-hand on what it's like to be a student enrolled at such an impactful university.
Rebekah
FGCU is a great school! I loved it there, and I made friends I keep in touch with to this day. The academics were great, and the professors really cared about what they were doing and their students. I could tell that it was a place that I could stay.
Jessica
I love going to Florida Gulf Coast University. It's very involved, and super safe school overall to be in. The professors are always accessible to their students.
Jonathan
It’s a beautiful campus and a great school. The facilities are awesome and the possibilities are never-ending.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Florida Gulf Coast University is 56%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Well Sophie, all your high school teachers are going to tell you that college is going to be a complete 180 from high school, and they are partially right. When they say college professors are going to be super tough on you and not anywhere near as nice as your high school teachers, they are embelishing a bit. My experience with college professors is that they are each very different in their own right. Some are extremely hard on you and will not give you the time of day, and others are extremely accomodating and want to help you in any way possible. As far as the course work goes, it varies from class to class and professor to professor. Some of my professors never assign any work and prefer class discussions to any written work and others stick to long research papers and presentations. Studying is something you are going to have to learn to deal with also. I know you never studied in high school and managed to pass all your tests, but if there's one thing that is different in college, it's the tests. They can make or break your entire grade and GPA.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
The worst part about my college is that since it is a small university the class sizes are small as well wich makes getting into a class that you need a competetion. If you the class fills up you have to e-mail the professors and beg for them to allow you in their class. If you cant get into a class that goes towards your major and you need to make full time status then you have to take a class that you really dont need.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
Florida Gulf Coast University is a very diverse school. To me there is not many people who wouldn't be able to attend this beautiful school. This school would be good for any student who wanted to further their education. If someone doesn't want to put the time required for any type of school then Florida Gulf Coast University would not be for them. Florida Gulf Coast University would be a great school for any student who wants to make an effort.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
I enjoy the small class sizes. That is most important to me. Being able to have conversations with the professors and have them know me by name instead of a random student they have. They are more personable that way and seem to care more.
The students at Florida Gulf Coast University are very friendly and outgoing. The students help each other out in any way that they can, there are student workers as well in the offices that came help you if you get lost. Florida Gulf Coast University offers many different ways for you to interact with other students. We have SI?s; these are older students who help others with classes like biology, and chemistry. We have all kinds of intramural sports that give students the opportunity to get involved with others as well.
Florida Gulf Coast University prides itsself on environmental awareness. The goal of every student attending this college is to fully comprehend this subject, and to apply the conservation practices to our every-day lives. Also, community service hour requirements set us apart as well.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
The school is very focused on preseving the various wetlands surrounding the campus. This school also constantly encourages students to become involved in extra circular activities.
The best thing about my school is the size. The campus is very large, yet the class sizes are very reasonable. If I am able to walk into a class and have a professor address me by my first name, then I believe my university is on the right track.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The most frustrating thing about my school is how some of the faculty treat the students. They do not respond to emails, criticize for no reason and some are unwilling to help students succeed.
FGCU is a wonderful school. Through countless efforts, the school has managed to stay clean and green. The students are friendly and the leadership opportunities are endless. Professors and students alike are on one page.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
72% of students attending Florida Gulf Coast University receive some sort of financial aid.
27% were awarded federal grants.41%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
