University of South Florida - INTO USA

USF soaring in the university ranks

The University of South Florida has been making an impression in a number of different national and international rankings. It has risen sharply in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, where it climbed 14 places in 2020 and currently sits at position 46 for top public schools in 2021.

Additionally, USF is ranked in the top 250 universities in the world by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021 and has been noted for its international outlook, which sees students from all over the world come to USF, and collaboration with industry.

To top it all off, this success is matched with USF's results in graduate rates. From 2008–2018, the six-year graduation rate has risen by 25 percent, the largest growth in comparison to other public universities across the U.S.

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 Postgraduate

Students can enroll onto 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 is a short-term program where students can study the English language as well as experience undergraduate or graduate level courses, and in some programs, earn credits.

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 who require it, they will prepare for the GMAT/GRE test and receive plenty of support. Programs can be 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 study a pathway program, undergraduate course or postgraduate 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, IELTS score of 6.5. Requirements may vary per program and students are encouraged to check the specific criteria for each course.

Direct Entry Postgraduate

Students require a four-year bachelor's degree of a high standard and if applying for a business program, GMAT scores. GRE scores may also be required depending on the program being applied for. 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 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

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. To be eligible, students must have a Letter of Offer and English language test scores as well as be from one of the selected regions.

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 Center Gallery has inspiring exhibitions open for visitors, guest lectures occur at the 700-seat Oval Theater, students can have their voice heard at the Student Government and there are activities to enjoy at the Riverfront Park.

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, 70 percent of students are either employed or continuing their studies within one year of graduation. 76 percent of graduates earn a salary of at least USD 50,000 and 32 percent earn a salary of at least USD 100,000.

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 in the U.S. by the Princeton Review 2019.

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 five years, 6,208 USF graduates from 154 countries worked in an OPT placement across 48 states.

Career support

USF Career Services has plenty of support services in place, 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
• Career 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