Savings Simulator
Estimate your total degree savings
*Simulating savings based on Florida Average's current in-state qualification rules.
Total Savings Goal
$49,912
Estimated Benefit Over 4 Years
Florida Universities
| University | In-State | Out-of-State | 4yr Savings | SAT Avg | Accept Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida Gainesville • Public | $6,380 | $28,658 | $89,112 | 1405 | 23% |
| Florida State University Tallahassee • Public | $6,517 | $21,673 | $60,624 | 1340 | 25% |
| University of Miami Coral Gables • Private | $57,194 | $57,194 | $0 | 1380 | 19% |
Top Education Hubs in Florida
Higher Education in Florida
Florida operates one of America's most affordable and accessible public higher education systems, serving over 900,000 students across its 12 state universities and 28 state colleges. The State University System of Florida ranks among the nation's top performers for both academic quality and value, with multiple institutions appearing in national top-10 public university rankings.
The University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville serves as the state's flagship, consistently ranked among the top 5 public universities nationally. UF enrolls over 57,000 students and offers world-class programs in engineering, business, law, and health sciences. Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee provides another top-20 public university option, particularly strong in sciences, music, and film.
Florida's other state universities offer specialized strengths: University of Central Florida (UCF) is one of the nation's largest universities with strong hospitality and engineering programs; University of South Florida (USF) excels in research and health sciences; Florida International University (FIU) in Miami serves as a major Hispanic-serving institution with strength in international business.
What truly distinguishes Florida is its commitment to affordable education. In-state tuition at Florida's public universities averages approximately $6,400—among the lowest in the nation for flagship-quality education. Combined with the generous Bright Futures Scholarship program, many Florida students attend college virtually free of charge. The Florida Prepaid College Plan allows families to lock in tuition rates years in advance, providing additional cost certainty.
Florida Prepaid vs Florida 529: Planning for College Costs
Florida offers two primary mechanisms for families to save for college: the Florida Prepaid College Plan and the Florida 529 Savings Plan. Understanding both options helps families develop comprehensive college funding strategies.
Florida Prepaid allows families to purchase tuition and fees at today's rates for future use, regardless of how much costs increase. A plan purchased when a child is 3 years old can be used for four years of university tuition 15 years later, even if tuition has doubled. This hedge against tuition inflation is particularly valuable given historical rate increases. Plans cover university tuition, state college (community college) tuition, or dormitory costs. Unused funds can be transferred to siblings or refunded.
The Florida 529 Savings Plan works differently—it's an investment account where contributions grow tax-free when used for qualified education expenses. Unlike Prepaid, 529 funds can be used at any accredited institution nationwide, not just Florida schools. Investment returns vary based on market performance, providing higher potential growth but also investment risk. 529 funds cover a broader range of expenses including room and board, books, and computers.
For Florida families planning to attend in-state universities, the combination of Florida Prepaid (for tuition) and a 529 plan (for other expenses) provides comprehensive coverage. Many families purchase Prepaid plans early, then add 529 contributions as finances allow.
| Aspect | PREPAID | PLAN529 |
|---|---|---|
| What it covers | Tuition/fees only | All college expenses |
| Usable at | Florida public schools only | Any accredited school nationwide |
| Price behavior | Locked at purchase price | Varies with market |
| Inflation hedge | Yes - guaranteed rates | No - dependent on returns |
| Investment risk | None | Market risk exists |
| Flexibility | Less flexible | Most flexible |
Florida Financial Aid & Bright Futures Scholarship
Florida's Bright Futures Scholarship Program is one of the nation's most generous merit-based aid programs, rewarding academic achievement in high school with significant college funding.
The Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) award—the top tier of Bright Futures—covers 100% of tuition and fees at Florida public universities, plus $300 per semester for other expenses. To qualify, students need a minimum 3.5 weighted GPA, 1330+ SAT or 29+ ACT, 100+ community service hours, and completion of specified high school coursework. This award can be worth $40,000+ over four years at UF or FSU.
The Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS) award covers 75% of tuition and fees. Requirements include a 3.0 weighted GPA, 1210+ SAT or 25+ ACT, and 75+ community service hours. Even at 75% coverage, this represents substantial savings—over $20,000 across four years of public university education.
Florida also administers federal need-based aid and the Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG), which provides up to $2,610 annually for students with demonstrated financial need. Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) grants assist students attending private Florida colleges.
Institutional scholarships at Florida universities are substantial. UF's Machen Florida Opportunity Scholars Program covers full cost of attendance for first-generation students from limited-income families. Benacquisto Scholarship provides full cost of attendance for National Merit Scholars choosing Florida public universities—a major recruitment tool bringing top talent to the state.
Florida In-State Tuition Requirements
Florida residency for tuition purposes requires establishing and maintaining legal residence in Florida for at least 12 consecutive months before the first day of classes.
To qualify as a Florida resident, you must demonstrate domicile—the intent to make Florida your permanent home. Key documentation includes: Florida driver's license or ID card, Florida vehicle registration, Florida voter registration, permanent Florida employment, and filing Florida as your state of legal residence for tax purposes. Students must also relinquish residency claims in other states.
Dependent students derive residency from their parents or guardians. If your parents establish Florida domicile, you typically inherit that status regardless of where you attend high school. This is particularly relevant for families relocating to Florida—once parents establish residency, children qualify for in-state tuition.
Independent students (generally those over 24, married, or classified as independent on FAFSA) must establish their own Florida residency. This requires living in Florida for 12 months while working or demonstrating other ties to Florida beyond university enrollment.
Florida law provides special provisions for military families. Active duty personnel, their spouses, and children stationed in Florida qualify for in-state tuition regardless of their home of record. Veterans who establish Florida domicile upon separation also qualify. Under the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act, veterans using GI Bill benefits pay in-state tuition nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is tuition at University of Florida?
UF in-state tuition is approximately $6,400 per year for 2025-2026—among the lowest in the nation for a top-5 public university. Out-of-state tuition is approximately $28,700. Room and board adds $11,000-$14,000 depending on housing.
What is Bright Futures Scholarship?
Bright Futures is Florida's merit-based scholarship rewarding high school achievement. The top tier (Florida Academic Scholars) covers 100% of tuition plus $300/semester. Requirements include 3.5 GPA, 1330+ SAT, and 100+ volunteer hours.
How do I qualify for Florida Academic Scholars?
You need a weighted GPA of 3.5+, SAT score of 1330+ (or ACT 29+), 100 hours of community service, and completion of required high school courses including 2 years of foreign language and college-prep coursework.
What is Florida Prepaid?
Florida Prepaid is a state program allowing families to purchase future college tuition at today's prices. You lock in current rates when you buy, protecting against tuition inflation. Plans cover Florida public universities and state colleges.
How do I establish Florida residency?
You must live in Florida for 12 months before enrollment while demonstrating intent to make Florida your permanent home. Required documentation includes Florida driver's license, voter registration, and vehicle registration. Dependent students derive residency from parents.
How competitive is UF admission?
Very competitive. UF admits approximately 23% of applicants, with middle 50% admitted students having SATs of 1390-1510 and weighted GPAs above 4.4. Strong academics, essays, and extracurriculars are essential.
Is FSU less expensive than UF?
Tuition is virtually identical—both around $6,400 annually for in-state students. Total cost of attendance differs slightly based on housing, meal plans, and personal expenses, but both represent exceptional value.
Can out-of-state students get Bright Futures?
No. Bright Futures is only for Florida high school graduates who attended Florida schools. However, out-of-state students can establish residency after arriving and may qualify for other scholarship opportunities at individual universities.
What are Florida's best public universities?
UF and FSU are the flagships. UCF, USF, and FIU are major research universities. Florida Atlantic, Florida Gulf Coast, and regional schools offer excellent programs at similar or lower tuition costs.
How much can I save with Florida Prepaid?
Savings depend on tuition inflation. If tuition increases 3% annually, a prepaid plan purchased at birth for $10,000 could cover tuition worth $18,000+ by college enrollment. Plus, you have guaranteed costs regardless of rate increases.
What is the Benacquisto Scholarship?
Florida's scholarship for National Merit Scholars who attend Florida public universities, covering full cost of attendance including tuition, fees, room, board, and books. Worth over $100,000 for four years.
Can military families get in-state tuition in Florida?
Yes. Active duty military stationed in Florida, their spouses, and dependents qualify for in-state tuition regardless of home of record. Veterans establishing Florida domicile also qualify. GI Bill users pay in-state rates nationwide.
What is the FAFSA deadline for Florida?
Complete FAFSA as early as possible after October 1. Florida's priority deadline for state aid is typically May 15, but earlier filing improves chances for institutional aid. Bright Futures eligibility is determined by GPA and test scores, not FAFSA.
Are Florida community colleges worth it?
Yes. Florida State Colleges (community colleges) charge approximately $2,400-$3,200 annually and guarantee admission to state universities through 2+2 agreements. This pathway can save $8,000+ while completing the first two years.
How does Florida tuition compare nationally?
Florida has among the lowest public university tuition nationally. UF at $6,400 is less than half of what flagships charge in Michigan, Virginia, or Pennsylvania. Combined with Bright Futures, many Floridians attend essentially free.
Official Data Sources & Authority
All tuition and enrollment data for Florida is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We provide this data to help students make informed decisions based on official government records.
- State University System of Florida. "Tuition and Fees Information."Official Source
- Florida Department of Education. "Bright Futures Scholarship Program."Official Source
- Florida Prepaid College Board. "Florida Prepaid College Plans."Official Source
- Office of Student Financial Assistance. "Florida Financial Aid Programs."Official Source
- University of Florida. "Cost and Financial Aid."Official Source
- U.S. Department of Education. "College Navigator."nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).studentaid.gov
Calculate Your Savings
Use our tuition calculator to estimate your total college costs and potential savings with in-state residency.