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29 Best Universities in Florida for International Students

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Known all over the world for its sunny weather, theme parks, warm beaches, art scenes, and nightlife, Florida is one of the most popular destinations for travel. However, for students who want to receive the best education, the universities in Florida offer top-notch education opportunities for both local and international students.

This blog will discuss the top universities in Florida- their admission requirements, costs, and more. From an educational point of view, Florida has some of the best universities in the world that attract students from all over. If you’re one of them and wondering how to apply, you’ve come to the right place! 

Table of Contents

Why 51成人导航 at Universities in Florida, USA?

With different academic programs for both postgraduate and undergraduate students, Florida colleges and universities are simply the most sought-after option in order to seek opportunities for higher students.

Here are some key reasons why choosing the universities and colleges in Florida would help in boosting your academic profile:

  • Universally Ranked: One of the main reasons why students prefer the best universities in Florida is the fact that these universities are universally ranked. The credit here goes to the world-class infrastructure, committed faculty members, and fantastic career scope.
  • All Types of Courses: Most of the top universities in the Florida universities list have amazing education programs for both local as well as international students. From Undergraduate degrees to postgraduate and doctorate options, there is a lot that the universities can offer.
  • Quality Education: The top universities in Florida pay special attention to international students. They have specialised programs that would suit the educational demands of students from all over the world.
  • Better Living Lifestyle: Florida is a place that is known for its nightlife, events, theme parks, and cuisine. Students who are studying at these top Florida universities will be able to experience it all for sure.
  • Different Scholarships Offered: Scholarship options are quite a few when it comes to the universities in Florida for international students. From educational scholarships to study grants, studying in Florida has so much to offer.

Suggested:

List of Top Universities in Florida for 2025

Here we have a Florida universities list mentioning all the essential details that students would need to know to make their decision about seeking admission into one of the best Florida colleges and universities:

Here’s a look at the complete list of top universities in Florida 2025

Let's delve deeper into these top universities in Florida.

1. University of Florida

A glimpse of University of Florida

The University of Florida tops our list of the best universities in Florida for international students. It is a public university that is counted among the oldest ones in the entire state. This university has a long list of established programs for international research, service, and education. Established in the year 1853, it is one of the landmarks of education in Florida.

University Type

Public

Established

1853

University of Florida World Ranking 2025

168

Popular Programs

Masters and PhD

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD- 49908 (INR 39,37,531.59)

PhD- USD- 12744 (INR 10,05,448.08)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 80

PBT- 500

IELTS- 6

Suggested: A Guide to US Student Visa

2. University of Miami

Witness the beauty of Miami by studying at universities in Florida

The University of Miami is home to more than 15,000 graduate and undergraduate students during the academic semesters and is one of the best universities in Florida. This institution was established in the year 1925 and has been seen as a remarkable example of education all over the world. Miami University provides diverse educational programs for students who want to get that academic boost.

University Type

Public

Established

1925

University of Miami World Ranking 2025

278

Intake

Fall and Spring

Popular Programs

Masters and PhD

Program Fee (Annual)

Masters- USD- 61000 (INR 4,81,2643.80)

PhD-  USD-9226 (INR 7,27,892.65)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL iBT- 80

IELTS- 6.5

Suggested:

3. University of South Florida

A view of florida to witness while studying at florida universities

Located in Tampa, Florida, the University of South Florida is also counted among the best universities in Florida. It is ranked as the 4th largest research university in the United States. With an overall student population bordering about 49, 867, this university is surely in one of the top spots on the list. About 9.8% of the total students at the University of South Florida represent international attendance.

University Type

Public Research University

Established

1956

University of South Florida World Ranking 2025

563

Popular Programs

PhD and MBA

Intake

Fall and winter

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA- USD- 32000 (INR 25,24,665.60)

PhD- USD- 2035 (INR 16,0552.95)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6.5

PTEA- 53

4. University of Central Florida

Views you can witness while studying at best universities in florida

Again ranked among the top universities in Florida is the UCF or the University of Central Florida. With a whopping 61,000 students representing the international group, this university is definitely one of the best public universities in Florida. Offering a plethora of courses and educational programs, it is a favorite amongst international students.

University Type

Public

Established

1963

University of Central Florida World Ranking 2025

551-600

Programs offered

Masters PhD

Intake

Fall and Winter

Program Fees (Annual)

Master- USD- 15000 (INR 11,83437)

PhD- USD- 8618 (INR 67,9924)

Admission Requirements

GPA-3.5

Suggested: TOEFL Accepting Universities in USA

5. Florida State University

One of the best universities in Florida- Florida State University

Situated in the state capital of Florida, Tallahassee is the Florida State University, another top-ranked in the list of the best public universities in Florida. This research university aims to impart quality education to students and has a plethora of education programs to prove the commitment that it makes.

University Type

Public

Established

1851

Florida State University World Ranking 2025

461

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD-22750 (INR 1794879.45)

MBA- USD- 1110 (INR 87,574.34) per credit

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 80

IELTS- 6.5

Suggested:What is IELTS Exam?

6. Florida International University

Beautiful glimpse of Florida that students at universities in Florida can witness

Florida International University is a well-known research-based public university that is noted for providing its students with a high-quality education. It was established in 1965. It has even conferred over 330,000 degrees on various leaders in South Florida and elsewhere. According to the QS World Ranking 2020, this university is ranked within the top 801-1000 universities in the world.

University

Public Research

Established

1965

QS World University Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs Offered

Masters and PhD

Intake

Fall, Winter

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD- 30000 (INR 23,66874.00)

PhD- USD- 67500 (INR 53,25466.50)

Admission Requirements

IELTS- 6.5

TOEFL- 550 (Paper) and 80 (internet)

Suggested:Everything About TOEFL

7. Florida Atlantic University

Explore the beauty of Florida while studying at Florida universities

Florida Atlantic University (FAU), founded in 1961, is a public institution of higher learning and research in Florida. FAU, a member of the Florida State Institution System, was the first public university in the Miami metropolitan area. FAU offers ten colleges and approximately 170 programs in major fields of study. The institution offers degree programs in humanities, science, business, medicine, teaching, architecture, and other fields.

University

Public

Established

1961

Florida Atlantic University World Ranking 2025

1201-1400

Programs Offered

Masters

Intake

Fall and Winter

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD- 16000 (INR 12,62,332.80)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 500 (Paper-based) 61 (internet)

IELTS- 6.0

Suggested: Scholarships to 51成人导航 in USA for International Students

8. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University was founded in 1964 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It has a 314-acre main campus in Fort Lauderdale, with nine extended campuses in the US and worldwide. It is Florida’s largest private research university. NSU Florida is one of the 59 universities in the US that is recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for both High Research Activity and Community Engagement. It offers several undergraduate and graduate programs in Business, Arts and Sciences, Law, Engineering, Psychology, Health Care Sciences, etc.

University Type

Private

Established

1964

Nova Southeastern University  World Ranking 2025

1401+

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 24k (INR 20L)

MBA- USD 29k (INR 24L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6.5

9. Florida Institute of Technology

Founded in 1958, Florida Institute of Technology also known as FIT or Florida Tech is a private research university based in Melbourne. Florida Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to offer excellent associate, baccalaureate, master, educational specialist, and doctorate programs.

University Type

Private

Established

1958

Florida Institute of Technology World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 22k (INR 19L)

MBA- USD 16k-2L (INR 13L-1Cr) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6

10. University of North Florida

The University of North Florida (UNF) is a public university in Jacksonville, Florida, set up in 1965. It is one of the 12 public universities in the State University System of Florida. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It is divided into five colleges that offer 53 undergraduate degree programs and 28 graduate programs.

University Type

Public

Established

1965

University of North Florida World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters, PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 16k (INR 14L)

PhD- USD 36k (INR 30L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6.5

GRE

11. Southeastern University

Established in 1935, Southeastern University is a private institution in Lakeland, Florida which offers excellent liberal arts programs. Earlier, the university was called the Beulah Heights Institute. In 1956, the institution began a four-year bachelor's degree program. Later on, in 2005, the university started offering its first master's degree programs, expanding the schools of arts, science, and business. 

University Type

Private

Established

1935

Southeastern University World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters

Intake

Fall

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 26k (INR 22L)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 76

IELTS- 6

12. The University of Tampa

The University of Tampa is a private university located in Tampa, Florida, established in 1931. It offers over 200 academic programs through its four schools: College of Arts & Letters; College of Natural & Health Sciences; College of Social Science, Mathematics & Education; and Sykes College of Business (AACSB accredited).

University Type

Private

Established

1931

University of Tampa World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 17k (INR 14L)

MBA- USD 21k (INR 18L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 90

IELTS- 6.5

13. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

Emory-Riddle Aeronautical University was established in 1926. After many transformations, in 1965, Embry-Riddle relocated to Daytona Beach, Florida. The university is one of the leading Aviation and Aerospace Universities in the world. Over 25,000 full-time students are enrolled in the two campuses of Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach, Florida, and Prescott and the Worldwide campus.

University Type

Private

Established

1926

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 30k (INR 25L)

MBA- USD 22k (INR 19L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6

14. University of West Florida

University of West Florida is a public research university set up in 1963 in Pensacola, Florida. It was established to be part of the State University System of Florida which spans 1,600 acres. The University of West Florida houses 9,515 students including 5,810 undergraduate and 3,705 graduate students with around 2% being international students. 

University Type

Public

Established

1963

University of West Florida World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters and PhD

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 22k (INR 19L)

PhD- USD 18k (INR 15L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 71

IELTS- 6

15. Atlantis University

Atlantis University is a fairly new private university established in 2007 in Miami, Florida. It offers various courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels of education, with 442 students enrolled in the undergraduate programs and 407 enrolled in the postgraduate courses.

University Type

Private

Established

2007

Atlantis University World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall, Spring, Summer

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 21k (INR 16L)

MBA- USD 22k (INR 19L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 70

IELTS- 6

16. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is a private research university established in 1889 in St Leo, Florida. It offers several undergraduate and postgraduate courses in subjects like cybersecurity, computer science, and business administration. It has granted scholarships to its students worth INR 64 million. 

University Type

Private

Established

1889

Saint Leo University World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 11k (INR 9L)

MBA- USD 12k (INR 10L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6.5

17. Jacksonville University

Jacksonville University is a private research university located in Jacksonville, Florida. Founded in 1934, it was earlier named Jacksonville Junior College. The university is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Its campus spans 260 acres of land and is classified into 3 institutes and 4 colleges. It offers over 100 courses, including Business, Marine Science, Engineering, Physics, and Nursing.

University Type

Private

Established

1934

Jacksonville University World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters 

Intake

Fall

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 22k (INR 19L)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6

18. Full Sail University

Founded in 1979, Full Sail University is a private university in Florida. It was originally founded as a recording studio named Full Sail Productions. In 1980, the studio moved to Florida and started offering various video and film-making courses. The university is recognized by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

University Type

Private

Established

1979

Full Sail University World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters 

Intake

Fall

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 36k (INR 30L)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6

19. Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico

Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico (PUPR) is a private, non-profit higher education institute established in 1966. The main campus is situated in San Juan, Puerto Rico. In 2001 and 2003, the University opened new campuses in the cities of Miami and Orlando, Florida, respectively. The main academic programs are Engineering, Geomatic Sciences, Architecture, Computer Sciences, and Business Administration.

University Type

Private

Established

1966

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 9k (INR 7L)

MBA- USD 9k (INR 7L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

20. Hodges University

Hodges University is a private research university founded in 1990 in Naples, Florida. It has prestigious programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, especially in business administration, engineering and technology, and management. Below are more details about this university.

University Type

Private

Established

1990

Hodges University World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Masters and MBA

Intake

Fall

Program Fees (Annual)

Masters- USD 21k (INR 25L)

MBA- USD 20k (INR 24L) 

Admission Requirements

TOEFL- 79

IELTS- 6

21. Barry University

Barry University is a private Catholic institution located in Miami Shores, established in 1940. The university is known for its commitment to social justice, leadership, and global education, offering over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. The campus provides a nurturing environment for international students, focusing on community service and research. Barry University is a recognized leader in programs such as Nursing, Business, and Law.

University Type

Private

Established

1940

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and Law

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 34,000 (INR 26,80,600)

Law – USD 42,000 (INR 33,08,400)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 79

IELTS – 6.0

22. Florida Gulf Coast University

Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), founded in 1991, is a public university in Fort Myers. Known for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, FGCU is a top choice for international students interested in business, health sciences, and environmental studies. With over 90 undergraduate and 45 graduate programs, the university provides diverse opportunities for higher learning.

University Type

Public

Established

1991

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and Nursing

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 22,000 (INR 17,34,600)

Nursing – USD 25,000 (INR 19,70,000)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 80

IELTS – 6.5

23. St. Thomas University

Located in Miami Gardens, St. Thomas University is a private Catholic institution offering a wide variety of programs, especially in law, business, and criminal justice. The university has a strong focus on leadership and social justice, contributing to its international reputation. St. Thomas offers a supportive environment for international students seeking personalized education and strong professional growth.

University Type

Private

Established

1961

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and Law

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 30,000 (INR 23,68,500)

Law – USD 35,000 (INR 27,63,250)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 79

IELTS – 6.0

24. Palm Beach Atlantic University

Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is a private Christian university located in West Palm Beach. Established in 1968, PBA offers more than 50 undergraduate and 25 postgraduate programs, including business, pharmacy, and nursing. Known for its small class sizes and personalized attention, PBA has a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, making it an excellent choice for international students seeking a close-knit academic community.

University Type

Private

Established

1968

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and Pharmacy

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 36,000 (INR 28,42,200)

Pharmacy – USD 40,000 (INR 31,57,000)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 80

IELTS – 6.5

25. Ringling College of Art and Design

Ringling College of Art and Design, located in Sarasota, is one of the leading art and design institutions in the United States. Known for its top-ranked programs in animation, illustration, and graphic design, Ringling is globally recognized in the creative fields. With over 14 specialized undergraduate programs, the college provides a vibrant environment for international students pursuing creative careers.

University Type

Private

Established

1931

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Animation, Graphic Design, and Illustration

Intake

Fall

Program Fees (Annual)

USD 48,000 (INR 37,88,400)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 79

IELTS – 6.0

26. Lynn University

Lynn University, based in Boca Raton, is a private university known for its innovative approach to education. With a diverse student population and a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, Lynn is a popular choice for international students. The university offers flexible learning formats, including online and accelerated degree programs, making it an attractive option for students balancing work and study.

University Type

Private

Established

1962

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and Aviation

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 35,000 (INR 27,63,250)

Aviation – USD 40,000 (INR 31,57,000)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 80

IELTS – 6.5

27. Keiser University

Keiser University, a private institution founded in 1977, is well-known for its career-focused education. With campuses across Florida, it offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in business, technology, and health sciences. Keiser’s programs are designed to align with industry demands, providing strong career prospects for its graduates.

University Type

Private

Established

1977

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and Nursing

Intake

Rolling admissions

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 30,000 (INR 23,68,500)

Nursing – USD 28,000 (INR 22,10,300)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 80

IELTS – 6.5

28. Rollins College

Rollins College, located in Winter Park, is a private liberal arts college with a rich history dating back to 1885. Known for its personalized education and international focus, Rollins offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly excelling in business, international relations, and environmental studies. Rollins is also associated with prestigious international organizations like the Clinton Global Initiative.

University Type

Private

Established

1885

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and International Business

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 67,000 (INR 52,89,950)

International Business – USD 62,000 (INR 48,93,900)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 80

IELTS – 6.5

29. Florida Memorial University

Florida Memorial University (FMU), located in Miami Gardens, is a historically Black university founded in 1879. Known for its commitment to empowering students through education, FMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and the social sciences. The university is dedicated to leadership and social justice, providing ample opportunities for students to engage in community service.

University Type

Private

Established

1879

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and Criminal Justice

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 32,000 (INR 25,24,400)

Criminal Justice – USD 28,000 (INR 22,10,300)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 79

IELTS – 6.0

30. Bethune-Cookman University

Bethune-Cookman University, situated in Daytona Beach, is a historically Black university founded in 1904. Known for its focus on social justice and leadership, Bethune-Cookman offers numerous undergraduate and graduate programs, including nursing and MBA. With a strong sense of community and personalized education, the university has produced many notable alumni who have contributed to social change.

University Type

Private

Established

1904

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

MBA and Nursing

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

MBA – USD 30,000 (INR 23,68,500)

Nursing – USD 27,000 (INR 21,31,950)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 79

IELTS – 6.0

31. Eckerd College

Located in St. Petersburg, Eckerd College is a private liberal arts college known for its focus on environmental sustainability and marine science. Eckerd offers over 40 undergraduate programs with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and global engagement. The college is associated with environmental research initiatives and provides excellent opportunities for students in marine biology and environmental studies.

University Type

Private

Established

1958

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Marine Science, Environmental Studies, and Business Management

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

USD 46,000 (INR 36,31,400)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 79

IELTS – 6.5

32. Ave Maria University

Ave Maria University, founded in 2003, is a private Catholic university located in Ave Maria, Florida. Known for its values-based education and strong Catholic tradition, Ave Maria offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in theology, business, and the liberal arts. The university’s close-knit community and commitment to moral values make it an ideal choice for international students seeking a faith-based education.

University Type

Private

Established

2003

QS World Ranking 2025

N/A

Programs offered

Theology and Liberal Arts

Intake

Fall and Spring

Program Fees (Annual)

USD 28,000 (INR 22,10,300)

Admission Requirements

TOEFL – 80

IELTS – 6.5

From the Desk of 51成人导航

Now that we have provided you with the list of the best universities in Florida for international students, you can go ahead and decide on the college or university of your choice. Make sure that you consider all the important factors such as eligibility, reputation, ranking, admission criteria, and much more when you are choosing a college or university. 

For further guidance and assistance get in touch with our counselors at 51成人导航. We are just one call away from resolving all your study abroad doubts and making your journey of applications easier. Schedule a FREE call with us today!

Frequently Asked Questions about Universities in Florida

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