University of Florida vs University of South Florida

University of Florida vs University of South Florida

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

UF and USF are both highly ranked public research universities, UF generally higher on global and national rankings. UF is particularly strong in Agriculture, Engineering, Medicine, and Biological Sciences; USF is strong particularly in Health Professions, Social Sciences, and more in Engineering and Technology. UF's research infrastructure, funding, and international reputation provide it with an edge in international rankings and subject-level repercussions; USF has been increasing in research productivity and stature, particularly considering that it is a Preeminent State University in Florida.

General Information

UF, with an enrollment of approximately 55,700 students, is slightly bigger than USF's enrollment (approximately 49,700 students). UF's Gainesville campus is located in a more typical college town environment, with extensive campus land, numerous undergraduate and graduate programs, robust athletics, and land-grant mission. USF has multiple campuses (Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee), providing a wide range of programs, a big student enrollment, and growing research presence, particularly in urban and medical/tech-related fields.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

UF admissions are more competitive, acceptance ~ 23-24%, whereas USF's is greater, ~ 40-44%. Students entering UF have superior academic measures (GPA, high school course rigor, standardized tests) compared to average admitted at USF. UF looks for quality grades, challenging courses, extracurriculars; USF does holistic review but from a larger, more diverse applicant pool and is less selective relatively.

Research Impact & Facilities

Both are R1 research universities (very high research activity). UF possesses a more robust research budget, more overall publications and citations, advanced research facilities (e.g. in agriculture, veterinary, medicine, engineering). USF possesses increasing research output, especially in health sciences, public health, engineering, and is increasingly becoming known for its influence. UF continues to dominate in overall research infrastructure, grant awards, and research reputation, but USF is closing gaps in some areas.

Cost & Financial Aid

UF's in-state tuition is relatively low for Florida residents; out-of-state is significantly higher. USF also has lower tuition for Florida residents, and out-of-state rates are lower than many peer universities. Both universities offer financial aid, scholarships, and both need-based as well as merit-based awards. Net cost (what students end up paying after aid) is moderately low for most UF in-state students, so UF is a good value; USF offers decent affordability particularly for locals, though out-of-state and living expenses may increase overall costs.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

UF has a high six-year graduation rate (~ 91%) and good median long-term earnings (sources indicate ~US$65,700 ten years post-enrollment, although figures vary). USF's graduation rate is lower (~ 75%) but increasing, and median long-term incomes are lower than UF but still good (~US$57,700 ten years after enrollment). UF's alumni networks are extensive, particularly in Florida and nationwide; USF alumni are becoming more influential, particularly in state industries (healthcare, public services, technology). UF has stronger repayment rates and more reputation for research areas; USF provides wide access and favorable results for most students.