Additional Admission Factors

In addition to our Academic Success Predictors, GPA and test scores, other factors are considered in USF’s admissions process:

Strength of Curriculum

High school coursework serves to prepare students for the rigors of college courses, particularly at a research extensive institution like USF. We encourage students to challenge themselves by taking coursework at the highest levels possible in which they can be successful, including Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), AICE and dual enrollment courses. In addition, students are encouraged to take additional academic coursework (beyond minimum state requirements), particularly in the areas of math, science and foreign language.

Grade Trend

Grade trend, particularly in the junior and senior year, is considered in our evaluative process. In fact, many of our applicants are deferred for semester grades so that we can ascertain their progress in their senior year. As a rule of thumb, the higher the grades the better, and we prefer to see more As and Bs than Cs (though Cs can be acceptable, particularly in the most challenging of courses). Ds and Fs are cause for concern.

Dual Enrollment Grade Point Average

Taking dual enrollment coursework is a great way to get a head start on meeting college graduation requirements while receiving additional weighting in USF’s application process as an Academic Success Predictor. However, poor performance in even a single dual enrollment course may impact an applicants to gain admission to USF. A minimum dual enrollment GPA of 2.5 is required to be considered for (and maintain) an offer of admission. Additional positive consideration is given to those with a dual enrollment GPA at or above 3.0.

NOTE: Dual enrollment grades will follow a student forever on official transcripts. Consequently, students should be aware that grades earned in dual enrollment courses will impact applications for graduate, law, medical and other professional schools as well as potential offers of future employment.

Personal Statements, Letters of Recommendation, Resume’ of Activities and Essays

USF does not require this information with the initial application. However, in the event that a student is deferred for any reason (including semester grades or new test scores), we encourage submission of this additional documentation. No more than two letters of recommendation should be sent, and they should be submitted by those who can best vouch for the applicant’s potential for success in the classroom.

Other Factors

Family educational background, socioeconomic status, status as first-generation-to-college or evidence of a special talent may also be considered in our evaluations process. To ensure these factors are considered, they should be noted on the original application. These factors will not include preference on the basis of race, national origin, or gender per Florida Board of Governors Regulations.

Talented Twenty Program

The Talented Twenty Program guarantees admission to one of the state universities in Florida for those students who meet minimum state requirements and are in the top 20% of their class. Many students that are in the top 20% of their class gain admission to USF. However, admission is not guaranteed, and USF rarely admits Talented Twenty Program students who do not meet USF’s competitive admission requirements.