Most
Affordable Colleges in Florida in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Florida provides a foundation in how organizations operate and grow. Programs typically include accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, entrepreneurship, and data analytics. Students develop leadership, communication, and decision-making skills through projects and internships. Graduates pursue roles such as management trainee, marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, or operations associate. Popular Florida options include the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, UCF, and Florida International University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Florida offers opportunities to explore behavior in diverse communities and research settings. Typical coursework often includes introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental, social, and abnormal psychology, plus neuroscience. Students gain experience through labs, internships, or community projects. Graduates pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral technician, HR assistant, or research coordinator; clinical practice requires graduate study and licensure. Several popular colleges include University of Florida, Florida State University, and University of Miami.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Florida offers strong academic and career opportunities. Typical courses include programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students may gain practical experience through projects and internships. Popular colleges include the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Central Florida, University of South Florida, and Florida International University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or systems engineers across many industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Florida combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Programs may include supervised fieldwork, preparing students for licensure pathways. Graduates commonly pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or family and couples therapists, depending on degree and credentials. Popular Florida options include the University of Florida, Florida State University, the University of South Florida, and the University of Central Florida. Compare programs carefully.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Florida offers pathways from associate degrees to bachelor's programs at universities such as the University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of Miami. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and supervised clinical practice. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, community health centers, or long-term care facilities. Further education can lead to specialties such as pediatrics, emergency care, or nursing leadership positions.

Best Colleges in Florida Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 15,000.0, compared with 37,880.0 at schools in the top 10%, making the overall median substantially lower.
• Average financial aid coverage is 100.0% of students, compared with 65.26% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 65.26%. Schools receive an average of 12,040.81 applicants, while the top 10% average 33,874.8 applicants. The median number of applicants is 1,683.0 for men and 2,750.0 for women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,139.61 and 24.18, respectively.
• Average enrollment is 9,005.03 students, with averages of 575.44 enrolled men and 728.82 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 53.5%, compared with 84.3% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 47.0% for men and 55.0% for women.
• There are 95 institutions offering associate's degrees, 120 offering bachelor's degrees, 70 offering master's degrees, and 29 offering doctor's degrees.
• The ranking includes 115 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, applicant numbers, enrollment, graduation outcomes, available degree levels, and admissions score averages. In particular, weigh affordability against graduation outcomes: the overall average graduation rate is 53.5%, while the top 10% average is 84.3%.

How much does studying at a college in Florida cost?

On average, the reported total cost of studying at a Florida college is $18,771.67, offering a useful starting point as you plan for a degree. Your actual bill depends on the school, program, residency status, and housing choices; costs at the University of Florida, University of Central Florida, Florida State University, or the University of Miami can differ.

• Average tuition and fees: $17,036.43.
• Average room and board: $13,889.36.
• Average books and supplies: $1,387.71.
• Reported total cost: $18,771.67.

These figures are averages across reported categories, so they should not be added together as a single bill. Compare net prices, scholarships, and fees at UF, UCF, and Florida State, and ask whether in-state tuition or living at home applies. Private schools such as the University of Miami may follow a different price structure. Planning for books and everyday expenses early can make earning your degree feel more achievable, with confidence and clarity.

How long does it take to finish college in Florida?

At Florida colleges and universities, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two; changing majors, part-time enrollment, or work and family commitments can extend the timeline. At schools such as the University of Florida, UCF, and Florida International University, your pace depends on credits completed each term.

Florida's average graduation rate is 53.5%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 84.3%. Rates are 48.46% for men and 56.3% for women. Planning ahead can make finishing sooner feel achievable. Early advising can clarify your options.

Ask about:

• Using AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits earned in Florida high school, if your college accepts them.
• Transferring eligible credits from a Florida community or state college, and confirming requirements with your target university.
• Taking summer courses or heavier loads when manageable; advisors can map prerequisites and help avoid wasted credits.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Florida earn a median alumni salary of about $45,395. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is about $64,524 - a promising earning potential as you plan your career in the Sunshine State.

Your own salary can vary depending on your field, degree, experience, and employer. Whether you study at the University of Florida, Florida State University, the University of Central Florida, or the University of Miami, comparing programs and career opportunities can help you choose a path that fits your goals.

• Median alumni salary: about $45,395
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: about $64,524

People also ask

What college in Florida has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one dependable answer without specifying the academic year, residency status, and type of college: tuition differs for Florida residents and nonresidents, and public colleges and universities have different rates. For an accurate comparison, check current tuition and mandatory fees for the same program and student category. Also compare total costs, including books and housing.

What college in Florida has the lowest GPA requirement?

There may not be a single lowest-GPA college. Some Florida public state colleges have open-admission pathways for associate-degree students, meaning they may not set a minimum high-school GPA for general admission. However, placement, program, and financial-aid rules can still apply. Check the current admissions requirements for the specific campus and program you're considering.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Florida Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Florida is a major public research university in Gainesville, known for broad academic offerings, active campus life, and strong school spirit. It enrolls 57,401 students, with a 91% graduation rate and a 24% acceptance rate. For a Florida student, reported total study cost is $25,694, while median alumni salary is $49,188. Its high graduation rate and earnings figure may appeal to students seeking a large, established university, though applicants should compare affordability, programs, and campus fit before choosing.

Florida State University, based in Tallahassee, is a public university with a lively college-town setting and programs spanning many fields. Its enrollment is 45,744; 86% of students graduate, and its acceptance rate is 24%. The listed total cost of studying in Florida is $19,084, and median alumni salary is $45,045. For in-state applicants weighing value, FSU combines a lower stated cost than UF with a strong graduation rate. Explore academic offerings, housing, and personal expenses to judge your overall fit.

University of Central Florida in Orlando is a large public university, recognized for its scale, career-oriented opportunities, and location in a major Florida metro area. It has 70,674 enrolled students, a 78% graduation rate, and a 40% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $19,810, and median alumni salary is $47,084. Florida students considering UCF can weigh its substantial campus community and reported outcomes against the demands of a very large institution, then check program availability, commuting, and living costs carefully.

Florida International University, located in Miami, is a public university serving a diverse community, with the energy of a South Florida city. FIU enrolls 55,811 students; its graduation rate is 74%, and its acceptance rate is 55%. The total cost of studying in Florida is $16,529, while median alumni salary is $44,931. Prospective students may find its urban setting and comparatively accessible admissions appealing, but should consider transportation, housing, and whether the university's programs support their academic and career goals.

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, commonly called FAMU, is a public historically Black university in Tallahassee, with a campus heritage and close-knit community. It enrolls 9,013 students, graduates 53%, and has a 21% acceptance rate. Its stated total cost of studying in Florida is $14,524, and median alumni salary is $39,723. For Florida applicants, FAMU's low listed cost and selective admission may merit attention. Compare academic programs, student support, and financial aid to determine whether its experience matches your plans.