University of Central Florida 2026 Guide For Students

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is a leading public university in Orlando, Florida. It is one of the largest universities in the United States, with more than 70,000 students enrolled. It offers a wide range of academic programs and strong career preparation. A lively campus life encourages students from around the world to study here.

About the University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida is a public metropolitan research university. It is located at 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, FL 32816, United States. It was founded in 1963 and opened for classes in 1968. The main campus is located about 13 miles east of downtown Orlando. It is literally adjacent to the Central Florida Research Park, the 4th largest in the U.S., which is why companies like Lockheed Martin and Boeing are so active on campus. 

UCF has a diverse student body. As of Fall 2025, it enrolled 70,674 students. It includes 60,083 undergraduates, 10,120 graduate students, and 471 medical students. It also offers online education. 7,068 students study fully online, with 3,820 undergraduates and 3,248 graduate students. Also, make sure to learn about the city with an Orlando student guide before moving.

University of Central Florida Ranking

The University of Central Florida QS ranking for 2026 is #701-710 worldwide. This global ranking reflects its research performance, academic reputation, and international diversity.

In national contexts, UCF also scores well in subject-specific areas. Its overall rankings, including regional recognition, are as strong as ever. The University of Central Florida Niche is ranked among the Best Colleges in America (#91 of 1,613) and as 6th among Best Colleges in Florida.

UCF Admissions, Acceptance Rate, Application

UCF welcomes students from across the U.S. and many countries. The University of Central Florida admissions process evaluates academic records, test scores, and other achievements. The most recent data shows that the University of Central Florida acceptance rate is about 40–45%. This means roughly 4 out of every 10 applicants earn admission. In 2025, 51,692 first-time freshmen applied, and UCF accepted 17,027 freshmen. Out of them, around 4,699 freshmen enrolled in Fall 2025. These numbers show that admissions are competitive and that not all accepted students choose to enroll. Also, the DirectConnect program guarantees admission to UCF for graduates of partner state colleges (like Valencia, Seminole State, and Lake-Sumter). This is the #1 way transfer students enter.

University of Central Florida Application Process

Step 1: Choose your program and study mode

Select your degree level. Choose undergraduate, graduate, or online study. Confirm your major and intake term before you apply.

Step 2: Check eligibility requirements

Meet the academic requirements for your program.

• Undergraduate applicants must complete high school or equivalent.
• Graduate applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree.
• Online applicants must meet the same standards as on-campus students.

Each graduate program may set extra requirements.

Step 3: Prepare required documents

Collect all documents before you apply.

• High school transcripts for undergraduate study
• College or university transcripts for graduate study
• English proficiency scores for international students
• Test scores, if your program requires them
• Resume, statement, or portfolio if your graduate program asks for them

Step 4: Submit the online application

Complete the official UCF application form. Enter accurate academic and personal details. Select your program and term carefully.

Step 5: Pay the application fee

Pay the non-refundable application fee of $30 during submission. The university processes applications only after payment.

Step 6: Send official transcripts

Ask your school or university to send transcripts directly to the institute. Ensure transcripts show final grades and degree completion if applicable.

Step 7: Submit test scores if required

Send SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate programs if requested. Send GRE or GMAT scores for graduate programs if required. Online programs follow the same rules as campus programs.

Step 8: Submit additional materials

Upload letters of recommendation if your program requires them. Submit essays, statements, or writing samples if requested. Complete this step before the deadline.

Step 9: Track your application status

Log in to the UCF application portal. Check for missing items and updates. Respond quickly if it requests more information.

Step 10: Receive the admission decision

The university reviews applications on a rolling basis. Graduate programs release decisions after department review. Online applicants receive decisions through the same system.

Step 11: Accept the offer and enroll

Confirm your admission in the portal. Pay the enrollment deposit if required. Register for classes once enrollment opens.

University of Central Florida Application Deadline 

Undergraduate and Online Undergraduate Deadlines

Fall Intake

• Application deadline: May 1
• Document completion: Before May 1
• Admission decisions: Rolling
• Classes begin in August

Spring Intake

• Application deadline: November 1
• Classes begin in January

Summer Intake

• Application deadline: March 1
• Classes begin: May

Graduate and Online Graduate Deadlines

Graduate deadlines vary by program. Most follow these general timelines:

Fall Intake

• Priority deadlines: December to February
• Final deadlines: March to May
• Classes begin in August

Spring Intake

• Deadlines: August to September
• Classes begin in January

Applicants should apply early for competitive programs.

Tips to make your application shine

1. Apply early and before the deadline
2. Maintain a high academic record. No drops or bumps.
3. Try to score a GPA of around 4.1–4.5. This is for freshmen, whereas graduate applicants usually need at least a 3.0 GPA from prior degree work.
4. Competitive applicants usually score between 1170 and 1290. However, UCF admitted students often score 1310–1430 on the SAT (mid-range). Check out tips for the SAT to score well.
5. The typical ACT range for admitted freshmen is 28–32 (composite). Go through an ACT guide before preparing to get a clear picture.
6. International students often need TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.5+. Also, learn about the difference between TOEFL and IELTS.
7. Provide clear essays or statements if required. Focus on clarity and real examples.
8. Programs like an MBA may also require a GMAT or GRE test score. Although there is no set limit, you can always aim for a higher score.
9. For recommendations, choose people who know your strengths well, as good recommendations support your overall assessment.

University of Central Florida Degrees and Courses

University of Central Florida courses are offered across 12 colleges. These include 112 bachelor’s, 98 master’s, 34 research doctorates, 3 professional doctorates, and 3 specialist degrees. Popular degree programs include psychology, business, computer science, health sciences, nursing, biomedical sciences, and engineering. The cost of attendance for in-state students is about $26,210 per year. This includes tuition, fees, room and board, and personal expenses. Out-of-state students pay more, at about $43,918 per year. You can study an Orlando cost of living guide to know your budget and manage it well, along with your tuition.

Note: Fees are calculated on the basis of credit.

About 73% of undergraduate students receive financial aid. Around 70% of graduates are without student debt. University of Central Florida online degrees include online bachelor’s and graduate programs. These online courses help students study flexibly. About 41,221 undergraduate students received grants or scholarship aid. These could be federal, state, institutional, etc., in 2025. This means approximately 69% of all undergraduate students receive some form of scholarship or grant support. These do not include institutional scholarships like Pegasus or Bright Futures. This is because the institute does not publicly report an exact total number of pure scholarship awards.

University of Central Florida Careers and Outcomes

UCF supports students with career planning and job placement. Career services help students connect with employers and prepare for interviews. In one year, nearly 23,000 students used career services resources. The students complete tens of thousands of co-ops, internships, and service-learning experiences annually. Popular companies that recruit students through career fairs, internships, and employment partnerships include:

• Technology & IT: Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, Oracle, Google (high representation of alumni in tech roles)
• Aerospace & Defense: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, L3Harris, Boeing, NASA
• Healthcare: AdventHealth, Orlando Health, HCA Healthcare
• Business & Finance: Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, EY, Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase
• Hospitality & Tourism: Disney, Universal Orlando, Marriott, Hilton
• Simulation/Gaming & Tech Services: EA Games, Raytheon, L3Harris

UCF’s First Destination Surveys show average reported starting salaries around $75,000 to $78,000 for many graduates. This depends on the majors, industry, and company in which the students work. Below is a comprehensive table showing the most common job roles after graduation:

In 2025, students completed around 39,000 internship, co-op, and experiential learning roles. Most paid internships in 2025 offered $15 to $25 per hour, depending on the industry and role. Thousands of UCF graduates reported full-time jobs or confirmed job offers. During the academic year, students can also opt for a part-time job. Part-time student jobs in 2025 paid $12 to $18 per hour for on-campus and nearby off-campus roles.

Student Housing in Orlando

Many students choose apartments near campus because UCF housing fills up quickly. Best Neighborhoods in Orlando include Alafaya or Waterford Lakes. These areas offer quiet residential or lively urban settings.

A single person’s monthly expenses (excluding rent) can range between $1,200 and $1,800. Typical rents near UCF range from around $900 to $1,800 per month, depending on location, size, and amenities.

Searching early for apartments near the University of Central Florida helps you find more options and better prices. Rental markets near major campuses can move fast, especially before fall semesters. With amber, you will find the best deal by following easy booking steps. Some of the best and most popular apartments among students are

1. College Station Orlando: The rent starts from $920 per month. It offers fully furnished shared apartments.

2. Northgate Lakes: The rent starts from $955 per month. It is just minutes from the UCF Campus.

3. The Accolade Collegiate Village West: The rent starts from $1090 per month. It offers a pet-friendly place for you to live.

4. Aperture: The rent starts from $1099 per month. It offers fun places for grilling, along with a clubhouse and coffeehouse with stunning views.

5. The Lofts Orlando: The rent starts from $919 per month. It provides a resort-style pool, a fitness center, and more. 

Final Thoughts

The Central Florida University offers quality education, a broad selection of degrees, and a lively student community. UCF’s location in Orlando gives students strong academic, career, and lifestyle opportunities. Along with strong academics, it offers a healthy social life as well. For students in need, there are merit-based or federal scholarships.  International students from around the world will feel at home with student services. If you plan to study here, start your application early. Check admission deadlines, prepare your documents, and explore housing options. 

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