Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University has an acceptance rate of 66.1%, an average net price of $10,394, and an overall rank of #629 (Grade B+). About 64.4% of students graduate within 150% of normal time, and median earnings are $60,232 five years after graduation. Data from the U.S. Department of Education and EDsmart's 2027 rankings.
Florida Atlantic University is a public university in Boca Raton, FL. Students most often pursue Computer Engineering and Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering.
Day to day, students benefit from a 24:1 student-faculty ratio, and 84.5% first-year retention. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 130.9%, roughly 81.0 points higher than typical outcomes. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore and career-focused learners aiming for high-impact outcomes.
Who is Florida Atlantic University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Florida Atlantic University graduates 64.4% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 65.0% and keeps 84.5% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Florida Atlantic University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Est. annual aid gap: $14,160 Cash cost of attendance minus average net price after aid.
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $4,879 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,288 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $16,414 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $7,410 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $24,554 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 37.1% of Florida Atlantic University students receive Pell Grants — in line with the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $5,257 to $18,580 depending on family income. Use Florida Atlantic University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $14,420/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $18,580/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (5 Years After Graduation) $60,232
- 10-Year Median Earnings $61,062
- Average Years to Graduate 4.4 years
- Average Student Debt $17,500
- Debt-to-Earnings ~29.1%
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 54.6%
- Employment Rate 91.2%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Florida Atlantic University graduates about 10 years after enrollment (25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile). Different horizon than median earnings five years after graduation above.
Florida Atlantic University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Florida Atlantic University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Florida Atlantic University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: Florida Atlantic University graduates report median earnings of $60,232 five years after graduation, 2% below the national median. The 130.9% ROI indicates solid long-term value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 530-610
- SAT Math 510-590
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 21-26
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 23,757
- Full-Time Students 75.3%
- Part-Time Students 24.7%
- Retention Rate 84.5%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 64.4%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 65.0%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 24:1
How to Get Into Florida Atlantic University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Florida Atlantic University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 66.1%, Florida Atlantic University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 66.1% acceptance rate, Florida Atlantic University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1040 and 1200 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Florida Atlantic University undergraduates. Biology, General, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General draw the most students.
- Biology, General 6.8%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 6.1%
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General 5.8%
- Psychology, General 5.5%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 5.5%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 5.1%
See more majors
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, Gen 5.1%
- Marketing 4.8%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Engineering $105,924
- 2. Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering $102,194
- 3. Computer and Information Sciences, General $94,115
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Mechanical Engineering $94,084
- 5. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $92,982
- 6. Ocean Engineering $86,714
- 7. Civil Engineering $84,222
- 8. Management Information Systems and Services $79,179
- 9. Accounting and Related Services $76,681
- 10. Finance and Financial Management Services $76,157
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degree) $117,887
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $117,790
- 3. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $115,667
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Taxation (Master's Degree) $107,133
- 5. Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree) $107,105
- 6. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $107,036
- 7. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $104,757
- 8. Medicine (First Professional Degree) $104,328
- 9. Economics (Master's Degree) $101,893
- 10. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $100,177
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Engineering grads earn $105,924—39% more than Finance and Financial Management Services ($76,157). Graduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General programs lead with $117,887 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
U.S. Department of Education data reports fully online programs for Florida Atlantic University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degree, 415 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 389 graduates)
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General (Bachelor's Degree, 330 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 315 graduates)
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degree, 292 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
U.S. Department of Education data flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (43 programs)▼
- Biology, General
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Psychology, General
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Communication and Media Studies
- Social Work
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Political Science and Government
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Mechanical Engineering
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Sociology
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Biological and Physical Sciences
- English Language and Literature, General
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- International Business
- Computer Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
- Chemistry
- Education, General
- History
- Anthropology
- Ocean Engineering
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Mathematics
- Environmental Design
- Philosophy
- Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Surveying Engineering
- City/Urban, Community, and Regional Planning
- Music
- Special Education and Teaching
- Physics
- Data Science
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Online Master's Degrees (40 programs)▼
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Biology, General
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Civil Engineering
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Psychology, General
- Economics
- Computer Engineering
- English Language and Literature, General
- Public Administration
- Marine Sciences
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Political Science and Government
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Communication and Media Studies
- City/Urban, Community, and Regional Planning
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Anthropology
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Mathematics
- History
- Sociology
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Music
- Biotechnology
- Public Health
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Applied Mathematics
- Special Education and Teaching
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Systems Science and Theory
- Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
Online Doctoral Degrees (17 programs)▼
- Biology, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Physics
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Special Education and Teaching
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mathematics
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Engineering, Other
- Chemistry
- Ocean Engineering
- Public Administration
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (28 programs)▼
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Geography and Cartography
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Biology, General
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Ocean Engineering
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Public Policy Analysis
- Public Health
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Insurance
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (31 programs)▼
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Geography and Cartography
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Social Work
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Marketing
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Philosophy
- Insurance
- Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Education, General
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Physics
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- Information Science/Studies
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Surveying Engineering
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- International Business
- Civil Engineering
- Area Studies
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Biology, General
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Data Analytics
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)▼
- Medicine
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 23,757
- Full-Time Students 75.3%
- Part-Time Students 24.7%
- Male Students 42.8%
- Female Students 57.2%
- Caucasian 42.5%
- Asian 3.8%
- Hispanic 28.9%
- Black 16.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients 37.1%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Florida Atlantic University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Florida Atlantic University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Florida Atlantic University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Florida Atlantic University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Florida Atlantic University has a diverse student body, with 42.5% identifying as White.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Florida Atlantic University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Florida Atlantic University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Florida Atlantic University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #629 overall with a 130.9% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $10,394 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $60,232 median earnings. The 64.4% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 84.5% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Florida Atlantic University's Strengths
Ranked #629 with a B+ grade, Florida Atlantic University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Florida Atlantic University excel at providing affordable education ($10,394 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Florida Atlantic University's 84.5% retention and 64.4% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($60,232 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Florida Atlantic University's 130.9% ROI and $10,394 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 64.4% graduation rate sits 1.9 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 84.5% first-year retention is 7.7 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 130.9% return on investment is 81.0 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $60,232 run about 2% lower than national outcomes five years after graduation.
- Average net price of $10,394 is roughly $9,487 lower than the national median of $19,881.
Helpfulness for Students
- 24:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 84.5% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 91.2% employment rate within three years sits 23.0 points above national outcomes.
- Pell participation at 37.1% trails the national share by 1.4 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Boca Raton, FL, Florida Atlantic University operates as a public university and receives a B+ from EDsmart. It appears at #629 in EDsmart's rankings Category results include Completion (B+), Support (C+), Career Outcomes (B), and Affordability (B+).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2027 rankings methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 84.5% retention, 64.4% graduation within 150% of normal time, and 65.0% earning an award within eight years. The reported ROI is 130.9%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $10,394 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $24,554.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $14,160 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $17,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 37.1% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $60,232 five years after graduation. This is roughly 2% below typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 91.2% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about 130.9% according to U.S. Department of Education data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
66.1% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Florida Atlantic University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
Cite this profile
Add your access date when you publish.
APA (7th): EDsmart. (2026). Florida Atlantic University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings. https://www.edsmart.org/schools/florida-atlantic-university/
MLA (9th): “Florida Atlantic University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” EDsmart, 2026, www.edsmart.org/schools/florida-atlantic-university/.
Chicago: EDsmart. “Florida Atlantic University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” https://www.edsmart.org/schools/florida-atlantic-university/.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Florida Atlantic University's acceptance rate?
Florida Atlantic University's acceptance rate is 66.1%, based on U.S. Department of Education admissions data.
How much does Florida Atlantic University cost?
At Florida Atlantic University, the average net price after grants and scholarships is $10,394 per year. That covers tuition, books, and living costs, which total $24,554 a year before aid. Tuition and fees alone are $4,879. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Florida Atlantic University's ranking?
Florida Atlantic University ranks #629 overall in EDsmart's 2027 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Florida Atlantic University's graduation rate?
At Florida Atlantic University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 64.4% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), the federal 8-year award rate is 65.0%, and first-year retention is 84.5%.
What are Florida Atlantic University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Florida Atlantic University report median earnings of $60,232 five years after graduation, according to U.S. Department of Education outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Florida Atlantic University's student population?
Florida Atlantic University enrolls about 23,757 undergraduate students, per U.S. Department of Education enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address 777 Glades Rd, Administration Bldg., Room 339, Boca Raton, FL 33431-0991
- Website www.fau.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$354.6M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate23.4%