Founded in 1851, Florida State University. is a Public college. Located in Florida, which is a city setting in Florida, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 32,933 full time undergraduate students, and 8,240 full time graduate students.
The Florida State University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 24:1. There are 1423 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Florida State University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
58%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
30
SAT Range
1110-1280
ACT Range
25-29
Admissions at FSU are considered Selective, with ,517% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 22 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
97% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 78% were in the top quarter, and 40% 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 State University.
1%
“We”re apathetic”
15%
“We know about current events and vote”
67%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
17%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
17%
“Sometimes, but not often”
60%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
20%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
8%
“I only go out in groups”
53%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
38%
“I feel extremely safe”
1%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
5%
“We bought the gear”
94%
“We live for the big game”
4%
“It”s not really our thing”
12%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
58%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
27%
“We”re a very artistic group”
2%
“Haven”t met them”
5%
“Available in class”
60%
“They keep regular office hours”
33%
“They”re always available”
1%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
9%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
76%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
14%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
756 Students rated on-campus housing 3.6 stars. 16 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
567 Students rated off-campus housing 4 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
852 Students rated campus food 3.6 stars. 19 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
886 Students rated campus facilities 4.4 stars. 53 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
881 Students rated class size 3.9 stars. 27 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
880 Students rated school activities 4.5 stars. 59 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
882 Students rated local services 4.3 stars. 53 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
886 Students rated academics 4.3 stars. 52 % gave the school a 5.0.
Florida State University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Florida State University?
316 Students rated Florida State University
Saja
Prospective04/11/2025
It seems to have decent classes and majors.
Nallely
Prospective04/09/2025
This is my dream university, I’ve been on a college tour and I can firmly say that I believe I will love it here and that if anyone is deciding to apply I think you should!
Riley
Prospective04/03/2025
Ever since I was 4 I knew my heart belonged at FSU. Maybe it was going to the games with my dad or constantly making fun of gators, but as I got older I realized it wasn't just that. The campus has a family touch to it. The big trees and bricks paint the most amazing picture. Florida State university is gorgeous.
Savannah
Prospective04/01/2025
Their beautiful campus and the Editing, Writing, and Media major. I think it perfectly sums up what I want to do in life without limiting me too much.
Lakija
03/30/2025
Florida State University (FSU) is a prestigious institution known for its strong academic programs, especially in fields like law, business, and mental health counseling. The campus offers a vibrant student life, with diverse activities, research opportunities, and a strong athletic culture. FSU's faculty is dedicated, and the university provides excellent resources for both undergraduate and graduate students. Overall, FSU is a top choice for students seeking a well-rounded and high-quality education.
Emily
12/29/2024
Lots of partying and if live on campus in traditional dorms there is not any parking nearby, hectic around campus, not a good college town as it is the capital, Great for certain majors such as art and film but not earth sciences department needs improvement for research and internships and mentorship is very lacking.
Frederic
05/20/2024
Great school and culture for students. The campus is lively and welcoming, with spirited football games at Doak Campbell Stadium and diverse student activities that foster a strong sense of community. A great choice for those seeking a complete collegiate experience.
Olivia
04/02/2024
I love FSU for a multitude of reasons. We have great academics, amazing sports teams, good nightlife, a beautiful campus, and so much more. I have no complaints about my last 4 years at FSU and am even pursuing my Master’s degree there in the fall. Students and faculty are amazing and the clubs, sports, and activities are wonderful too.
Timothy
03/21/2024
I am also a double major in English and the English department is truly second to none. If you're considering an English degree, this university is an amazing choice. The English department is five stars! There are many excellent departments in the university that are underrated and underfunded.
elizabeth
03/07/2024
Florida State University seems like a excellent school. During your visit you feel safe on campus and the students are happy to help you find your way around campus if they themself don't have a class. I would apply to go to Florida State University..
John
12/30/2023
I love this school, the culture can be toxic if you aren’t careful (partying, drinking, etc is fun but can hurt you) but I definitely don’t regret choosing it. The classes are mostly awesome (though I’ve had a few outliers that sucked) the professors seem to care for their students, and overall it’s a great school.
Madison
11/30/2023
I think Florida State University has great potential. However, it has its downfalls as any school does. There is not nearly enough parking for all of the students, even if you have a handicap placard. It's very hard to meet new people unless you're in a club or organization, especially if you're a transfer student. The tuition is pretty expensive and they actually charge you more if you take the class online even though the in-person classes use the same programs for assignments/books. There isn't enough classes/class spots. If you don't register for your classes at exactly the time the registration opens, you probably won't get into the classes you need/want. Even if you do log on right away, you still may not get the classes depending on your registration status/rank. They do have excellent professors and amazing programs. Some of your professors wrote the textbooks you're learning from. However, in my experience, they don't update your grades very often and you'll be two weeks away from finals and not know how you're doing. In all honesty, its a big party school. The advisors aren't very helpful in assisting you with registering for classes, you'll end up just doing it yourself and hoping for the best. Although this is a long list of bad things, it really is a good school. The academic opportunities you receive are unlike anywhere else.
Mahnoor
08/02/2023
Florida State University has given me a lot of opportunities. We offer private external scholarships from FSU4U, we have undergraduate research opportunities through the Undergraduate Symposium and Honors in the Major Programs. We offer a lot of study abroad opportunities, like the Freshman Gap Year program or through International Programs. The recreational facilities on campus are really great, like free workout group fitness classes at the Leach or being able to kayak at the FSU Rez Lake Pavilion. There are so many fantastic opportunities to learn, travel, and enjoy your time as a student here, but you have to be on the lookout and apply! The earlier, the better. Always attend office hours for professors, and you will be good. Our foreign language and science professors I can say that there are some good ones, and just a few rotten apples in between. Overall, FSU is a really great school. Our women’s basketball team is heavily underrated unfortunately, our soccer and softball teams are great, and our football team needs some work, and even though the games are super long, they are always so much fun! Tailgating itself is like an event. Our School of Dance and the MAGGI Center are amazing, we have wonderful Emmy-Award-winning artists at the FSU College of Arts. Not to mention, we also run our own Circus! Lastly, FSU is an R1 research institution, which a lot of people overlook. We ranked top #15 Public Universities in the nation last year. Go ‘Noles!
Jada-Lee
08/01/2023
I think that Florida State University is a great school that people should at least apply to and consider going whether you live in Florida or out of state. At Florida State there is always something for you to do and there will always be a crowd or group of people that you can surround yourself with. If you get out of your dorm, there will always be something to do and you will most likely never be lonely. Also, the selection of classes here are very good and the professors are very knowledgable as well.
Danielle
07/30/2023
This summer I went to stay at FSU for a summer internship program for future medical students. The program lasted a week and I got to live like a college student thought it. I experienced the average dorm life, classes, social life, and food of the students there. It was a great experience and I believe that FSU is a great college for students who are interested in pre-med. They had so many resources available for them and are known to be one of the few colleges in Florida to have a dissection life. I talked to the students there and many said they were happy to be and FSU. Many have actually experienced life at UF before going to FSU and said the environment there is way different. For example, many said UF is more competitive and modern while FSU is more relaxed and traditional. The students say they are practically friends with everyone and their classes are challenging yet manageable. The dorm life wasn't the best because the building I stayed in had broken pipes. Everyone had dirty water for 2 days so that part was unpleasant. For breakfast and dinner we eat a buffet style restaurant called Suwannee's on campus. The food was delicious and there were so many options. Overall, I would say my visit was a 7/10. I made so many wonderful friends throughout the trip and got to experience actual college life including med classes. The only down side was the living situation but I'd say I had a great visit.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Florida State University is 58%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
I received guidance to becoming the person I am today. In highschool I was judged for being a little nerdy and not having the newest clothing but in college I learned that I was simply misunderstood. I can share my views and opinions freely with people who are open and interested in learning and expanding their views. I have gained life long friends with people who share my views and passions. I have found pride in myself to be a well rounded student. I gained confidence to put myself out there for people to get to know me and to get to know others as well. College has changed my perception of the world and I understand that my purpose is more than to get a job and make a bunch of money. I have learned that success is determined solely by how much I believe I can acheive my goals and aspirations.
There seem to be three types of students here: those who can't wait for the weekend, those who can't wait to graduate into a three piece suit, and the misfits who can't seem to escape their fellow students.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
I would say that the worse thing about my school is the parking, we need so much more for the number of students that attend. Most of the students live off campus, they commute everyday and have trouble finding parking on time to get to classs.
The best thing about FSU is not only the people you meet, but the comradery that is experienced at any sprting event. Also, even when not in Tallahassee, when you see a fellow nole you can always expect a friendly smile and a seminole chop!
I truly believe that any person could attend this university, but they must be willing to bring some things with them. They must bring an "attitude of gratitude," and a perception that is open to new and different things. They must come willing to accept challenges and maybe even some hardships, because nothing worth accomplishing is easy. A consistent study behavior is also very important, in preparing for their academic classes, especially ones of their particular majors. Dedication is something that everyone should bring to their university. This positive vibe will encourage the entire campus to go for their goals.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
Florida State University creates an environment where student participation in sporting events, social clubs, and classes is a large part of the culture. Students who enjoy active social environments combined with engaging course work will enjoy Florida State, while those who are not atttracted to this environment, will not.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
The campus is one of the largest in the state. It also has many different cultures and religions. So anyone would fill at home there. There are lots of various activities and workshops to bring the student body close to each other. So you can realy have team spirit during football season and all the other school sponsered sports. But that isnt not all it has to offer. They are a great educational institution.
I absolutely love Florida State University! The student body is well-rounded and truly embodies a diverse group of ambitious individuals that exemplify excellency in academics, athletics, and social relations!
At every school, this is going to depend on the department. I can only talk about my experiences, and they are in the college of criminology and the department of computer science. The criminology program at FSU is ranked high and the professors receive tons of money in grants for important research projects. The professors really care about their students and want you to come to their office hours - many will talk all day about their research if you get them on the topic. The classes in the college of criminology are easy. The department of computer science is a whole different story. Professors have very thick accents and are hard to understand. Many seem annoyed when you're in their office hours, and the classes are incredibly difficult and labor intensive. That said, the department has some major perks. There are always several TA's per computer science class and 99{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the time they're incredibly helpful. FSU also has a CS majors lab, with dual boot 27'' monitors. It's a great place to go work on programs, as there will usually be someone in your class in there too.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
Although Greek Life is extremely popular at Florida State University, there are still clubs and lifestyles that adhere to other students. Personally, I am not involved in Greek Life. I was on the varsity swim team for a year before I decided that this would not be for me, now I am involved in Pre-Med clubs, Best Buddies, among other clubs that help other students. You can get involved with residency, homecoming, orientation, or really anything that you find interesting. We also have the circus, unlike any other Florida school. You can join the circus and practice with them for major performances, or you can go and watch the circus on the weekends two months out of the year for entertainment. Off campus, there is a ton of nightlife on the weekends that give students things to do. In the summertime, there are sponsored events by a strip of clubs called "The Strip." With that being said, there is constantly something going on both on and off campus during any time of the year.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
Students at FSU are stereotyped to be ambitious students that enjoy life and have fun while also working hard to achieve big goals. I believe that for the most part, the student body reflects just this; students enjoy enjoy living and having fun, but are also eager individuals who set high goals and put tremendous effort into transforming dreams into realities.
I decided to go to this school because I thought that it would be the most beneficial for me in what career I want to pursue. After I get my undergraduate degree, I would like to go to law school then practice law in Florida. These goals in mind, the state capitol of Florida was the perfect option as to where to study. Florida State has a very strong political science program, which is what I wanted to major in, and a top rated law school. The institution has endless opportunities within the state government for students to intern and volunteer, which is perfect for gaining experience and building a strong resume for law school.
The other main reason I chose this school was for its marching band program. All of my high school years were devoted band and the FSU Marching Chiefs is one of the very best marching bands in the country that I am very proud to be a part of.
Obviously sports are HUGE at FSU! I believe that most, if not all of the home games are free to students. In the past, they have given tickets out based on your class (senior, junior...), but this year, they were given out on a first come, first served basis. I, personally didn't have a problem getting tickets, and was able to attend most of the games. You HAVE to go to at least a couple football games each year, they are so much fun!
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.
89% of students attending Florida State University receive some sort of financial aid.
26% were awarded federal grants.36%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.