Research.com
University of West Florida logo

University of West Florida

11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514-5750, USA

University of West Florida award
University of West Florida award
US ranking
position: 258
Tuition & fees per year: $6,359
Acceptance rate: 57.00%
Median alumni salary: $53,046
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1135 SAT, 24 ACT
Entrance difficulty: Moderate

What is the accreditation of University of West Florida?

The University of West Florida holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which authorizes it to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees. This accreditation ensures that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education.

Several of its individual academic programs also maintain specialized accreditation from relevant professional bodies. For example, the College of Business programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), reflecting adherence to rigorous business education standards.

Additionally, the university's nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), confirming the programs meet national standards for nursing education. Other professional programs may carry further accreditations that validate their curriculum and prepare students for professional certification or licensure in their respective fields.

What are the admission requirements at University of West Florida?

The University of West Florida requires applicants to have completed high school or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. A secondary school transcript and grade point average are mandatory components of the application, while a class rank is recommended but not required. Although an associate degree from a Florida public junior college is preferred for admission, dual credit is not accepted. The university recommends submitting additional supporting materials such as recommendations and competency evidence, but these are not compulsory.

Applicants must submit standardized admission test scores, including the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which is required for non-native English speakers. Other standardized tests may be submitted on a recommended basis. The university does not mandate computer ownership; however, it does offer computer leasing options.

Regarding academic credit policies, the University of West Florida accepts college credits, including Advanced Placement (AP) credits. The institution does not operate under an open admission policy, implying selective enrollment standards.

Standardized test score data indicate an average combined SAT score around 1135, with breakdowns showing about 555 in mathematics and 580 in writing, situating students generally in the lower half nationally. The average ACT composite score is approximately 24. The university's acceptance rate stands at 57%, reflecting somewhat selective admissions relative to many institutions.

What are the application fees and waivers at University of West Florida?

The University of West Florida requires prospective students to pay an application fee when submitting their admissions materials. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications.

Applicants who may face financial hardships can request a waiver for this fee. The university offers fee waivers to eligible students to reduce financial barriers to application. These waivers are typically granted based on specific criteria, such as participation in certain federal aid programs or other documented financial needs.

Students interested in applying for a fee waiver should review the university's guidelines carefully and provide any required documentation to support their request. This ensures the university can consider their application without the burden of the application fee.

What types of ROTC programs are available at University of West Florida?

No specific ROTC branch units are present on the campus of University of West Florida. Prospective students interested in ROTC programs may need to consider alternative institutions that offer these programs directly or explore affiliated partnership options if available elsewhere.

What are the requirements for transfer students at University of West Florida?

University of West Florida admits transfer students for the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple opportunities throughout the year to continue education without prolonged breaks. The institution maintains a moderately difficult entrance standard for transfers, requiring applicants to meet certain academic thresholds before acceptance.

Transfer applicants benefit from the university's acceptance of various credit types. This includes credits earned through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) for both subject-specific and general exams, as well as credits from the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program. Additionally, the university recognizes Excelsior College credits and accepts recommendations that may support a transfer candidate's application.

The policy encourages the transfer of previously earned college credits, allowing students to advance their educational progress without unnecessary repetition of coursework.

What types of study abroad programs are available at University of West Florida?

University of West Florida offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich the academic experience and provide cultural immersion for students. These programs include semester and summer options, allowing participants to earn academic credit while studying in international locations. The university collaborates with partner institutions around the world, giving students access to diverse educational settings and specialized courses.

Programs focus on fields such as business, marine biology, education, and history, aligning with the university's academic strengths. Some opportunities involve short-term faculty-led trips that combine classroom study with cultural excursions, while others allow students to enroll directly in foreign universities for a more immersive experience.

In addition to credit-bearing programs, University of West Florida provides support services to assist students with scholarships, travel arrangements, and acclimation abroad. These resources aim to make the study abroad process more accessible and seamless, encouraging participation from a wide range of students across disciplines.

University of West Florida Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1135
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 24
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 57%

ACT scores of enrolled students

ACT in range 12-17
ACT in range 18-23
ACT in range 24-29
ACT in range 30-36

University of West Florida Admissions

Applicants Total: 9,831
Admission Total: 5,591
Enrolled Total: 1,503
Women
Men

University of West Florida Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1135

Median composite ACT score

24

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

66%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

48%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

No

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

Yes

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Recommended

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Recommended

Recommendations

Recommended

Formal demonstration of competencies

Recommended

Admission test scores

Required

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Required

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Preferential admissions consideration text

applicants with associate degrees from Florida public junior colleges

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

Yes

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Yes

Disabilities services

Yes

Off-campus study

Yes

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Air Force

ROTC branch unit on campus

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Yes

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

Yes

Preparation at another institution required

No

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

Yes

University of West Florida Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Moderate

Generally accepts credits

Yes

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring, Summer

Recently Published Articles