University of South Florida - INTO USA

USF rising in the university ranks

The University of South Florida has been moving from success to success across a range of different national and international rankings due to its high-quality courses and great campus. It has risen sharply in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, where it currently sits at 46^th place for top public schools in 2022.

In addition to this, USF is ranked 29^th among public US institutions by The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022 and has been noted for its international outlook, which sees students from all over the world come to USF and collaborate with industry.

New Student Wellness Center

The university recently began construction work on a new, three-story facility that will be dedicated to improving and maintaining the health and wellbeing of all students. The building will be 47,000 square feet in size when completed, which is four times that of the current Student Health Services site. Over USD $27 million is being invested into creating a modern facility that will offer students fantastic, centralized health services.

There are a number of study routes available for international students at the University of South Florida, where they can develop their skills and prepare for a full academic course at the university. There are different start dates throughout the year.

Direct Entry Undergraduate

Students who meet the program entry and English language requirements for undergraduate degrees at USF can apply directly to the university.

Direct Entry Graduate

Students can enroll in a postgraduate program at USF in the event that they meet the necessary English language proficiency level and academic entry requirements of the course.

International Year One

Students can gain credits while developing their academic and English language skills so they can progress to the second year of an undergraduate degree program. The length of a student's International Year One will depend on their level of English.

Study Abroad with English

This course is a dedicated short-term program in which learners will study the English language alongside gaining experience of undergraduate or graduate level study. Students will be able to earn academic credits in some programs.

Graduate Pathway

Those who wish to study a master's degree can gain the academic and language skills required to qualify and earn credit toward their degree. For programs that require it, they will prepare for the GMAT/GRE test and receive plenty of support. Programs are typically one or two semesters long.

Academic English

Students can develop their academic, English language and critical thinking skills that are required for success in American higher education.

To be eligible for a Pathway program, undergraduate course or graduate degree at the University of South Florida, students will need to meet a small number of entry requirements.

Direct Entry Undergraduate

Students will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum GPA of 3.0. A minimum TOEFL score of 79 or IELTS score of 6.5. Requirements may vary per program and students are encouraged to check the specific criteria for each course.

Direct Entry Graduate

Students applying directly to a postgraduate course will need to demonstrate completion of a bachelor's degree program, alongside GMAT scores if they are making their application to a business program. In some cases, GRE scores may be required. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is needed in conjunction with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 79 or equivalent.

International Year One

Students will need the equivalent to a high school diploma with a GPA 2.5 out of 4.0, and to meet the English language requirements.

Study Abroad with English

Students will need to have completed one year of college or university, have a GPA of at least 2.5, and meet the English language requirements.

Graduate Pathway Program

Depending on the course, students will need to have completed their first degree, diploma or equivalent, have equivalent to (usually) a GPA 2.5 to 2.75 out of 4.0, meet the English language requirements as well as any other specific program requirements. Some programs require students to provide a portfolio.

Academic English

Students will need a high school diploma or equivalent.

At USF, international students can take advantage of a range of prestigious scholarships on offer. These are to reward high-achieving students and help them with their university costs.

Regional Scholarships

Eligible students may receive one of a number of limited scholarships worth up to USD $8,000. Students will need to provide a Letter of Offer alongside evidence of English language test scores to be eligible for this award, in addition to being from one of the regions selected.

USF Green & Gold Presidential Award

Eligible students may receive a scholarship of up to USD $12,000 per year for four years. To qualify, students must be eligible for first-year undergraduate study and meet the academic requirements.

USF Green & Gold Directors

Eligible students may receive a scholarship of up to USD $9,000 per year for four years. To qualify, students must be eligible for first-year undergraduate study and meet the academic requirements.

USF Green & Gold Scholars Award

Eligible students may receive a scholarship of up to USD $6,000 per year for four years. To qualify, students must be eligible for first-year undergraduate study and meet the academic requirements.

USF International Student Scholarship

Eligible students may receive a scholarship of up to USD $1,000 per year for four years. To qualify, students must be eligible for first-year undergraduate study and meet the academic requirements.

USF International Transfer Student Scholarship

Eligible students may receive a scholarship of up to USD $500 per semester for two years. To qualify, students must have a cumulative post-secondary GPA score of 3.5 or above, with at least 60 transferable credit hours.

University facilities

International students at the University of South Florida have access to facilities that allow them to have the best possible start as a university student. This ranges from modern classrooms to extensive learning resources to specialized support spaces.

The library is open 24/7 and is home to countless academic resources. There's the Student Health Services, an 8,500-square-meter recreational facility, and the sociable Marshall Student Center.

The university is also home to the Center Gallery, which hosts regular exhibitions and is open to the public. Students can attend inspiring guest lectures at the Oval Theatre, with a 700-seat capacity. The university's Student Government is a fantastic opportunity for students to represent their community and make their voice heard.

The campus itself is located around the picturesque Riverfront Park, which offers students a wide range of leisure and sporting activities.

Dining options

Students can eat delicious food at the many dining halls, restaurants and cafes found all over campus. There is something to suit all dietary requirements and preferences, and meal plans are available.

INTO USF Center

As well as university-wide facilities, INTO students can benefit from what's available at the INTO USF Center. Close to student housing, dining options, academic resources and recreational facilities, there are spaces to study, socialize or chill out. There are also a wealth of services on offer, as well as computer labs and classrooms with interactive technology.

At the University of South Florida, 72% of students are either employed or continuing their studies within one year of graduation.

USF also has a huge global impact in research in the numerous key subject areas. Their technology Incubator has provided more than 230 local jobs, and the Center for Entrepreneurship ranks within the top ten among public universities in the US according to The Princeton Review 2020.

Industry experience

The university provides industry opportunities where students can meet prestigious employers and USF alumni. Students can also undertake invaluable work experience placements through Optional Practical Training (OPT). Over the past seven years, 7,526 USF graduates from 157 countries worked in an OPT placement across 49 states.

Career support

USF Career Services have plenty of available support such as:

• Internship placement assistance
• Career counseling and a dedicated career consultant for international students
• Cooperative education: a paid career-related work experience integrated with an academic program
• Careers fairs: numerous events related to employer recruitment opportunities
• Resume review and interview practice
• Suit-A-Bull: business wear rentals for interviews
• Handshake App: connect students with companies that work with USF

Student Reviews

''I chose USF because it is a research-driven university. There are many opportunities to get involved in research and to start your own. It opens up a lot of doors for your career and helps you to be successful.'' Adheesh, India, International Year One in Computer Science and Engineering

''I love Florida, especially Tampa Bay! My favorite spot is the beach, where I take my family to swim, sunbathe and play volleyball. I also love to spend time in Downtown Tampa. My advice for anyone who plans to come to USF: explore all parts of Florida! You will find a lot of charming places here.'' Phani, India, MBA