Why USF?

There’s a lot to love about the University of South Florida. Here are just 10 of the top reasons USF is “the one” for you!

1. Sunny skies and amazing cultural amenities

Tampa boasts an average temperature of 70-90 degrees and 360 days of sunshine a year. Busch Gardens, six professional sports teams, numerous cultural amenities, gorgeous beaches nearby, and a vibrant music scene make this a terrific place to continue your education.

2. USF offers more mileage for your college budget

With one of the lowest tuition rates in the country, generous financial aid and scholarships, and plenty of student employment opportunities, USF is an outstanding value. Plus, access to career-enhancing internships in Tampa can lead to a greater return on investment after graduation.

3. We’re as big as you want, and as small as you need

With more than 39,000 students and 500 clubs and organizations, USF is one of the largest universities in the nation. But don’t let our size fool you. This is a welcoming, approachable campus. There are countless opportunities to make friends, get involved and form tight-knit communities around common interests. Plus you’ll have access to individual support services through academic advising, tutoring, faculty mentorship, and more.

4. Already know what you want to study? Still undecided? We have a program for you!

Perhaps you’ve always wanted to be a doctor. Or maybe you’re still searching for the perfect career path. USF offers more than 100 bachelor’s degree options, and 171 degree programs at the graduate, specialist and doctoral levels. Such a wide variety of programs means you’ll have the freedom to explore, choose and develop your precise academic passion.

5. The excitement of Big East athletics

USF’s nationally ranked men’s and women’s varsity teams compete against the best universities in the country. If you’re an amazing athlete, join them. If not, paint yourself green and gold and cheer like you’ve never cheered before.

6. You’ll live and learn in state-of-the-art facilities

From our new multi-screen gaming center (dubbed SkyPad), to sophisticated labs in our new Interdisciplinary Sciences building, USF boasts exceptional facilities. NBC's Today show even called our brand new campus recreation center "one of the highest tech fitness centers in the nation"!

7. You’ll become a global citizen

USF takes pride in its international flavor, created by our culturally diverse students, faculty and research partners from every U.S. state and up to 125 countries. As you interact with students and professors from around the globe, you’ll gain new perspectives about yourself and the world. Maybe you’ll be inspired to study abroad in one of more than 25 programs.

8. You’ll discover new breakthroughs with world-renowned researchers

USF is one of America’s Top 50 Research Universities. Beginning your first year, you’ll be encouraged to develop research projects hand-in-hand with some of the brightest minds in the nation. You might help to develop clean sources of energy, enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities, or study the effects of cyberbullying.

9. USF is always moving, changing, growing, evolving

There is no room for “that’s the way we’ve always done things” at USF. Our students and faculty are interested in shattering the status quo and blazing their own trail, not joining someone else’s path. Students have a seat at the table. And there’s always a spirit of collaboration, a freedom to create, and the ability to leave your mark.

10. You’ll graduate prepared to lead and serve in an ever-changing world

Through challenging courses and meaningful internship, leadership and service-learning opportunities, USF equips you to pursue your dreams – whether it’s immediately embarking on a successful career or pursuing an advanced degree.

Still unconvinced? Come visit campus to see it for yourself!