Florida State University
Florida State University is a public university in Tallahassee, FL ranked #70 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of A, enrolling about 32,212 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 24.2%. Students most often pursue Computer Engineering and Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, 96.0% first-year retention, and 85.6% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $11,297, about $5,701 less than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at 10.2%, roughly 75.1 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $49,814. That's about $6,126 higher than national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community.
Florida State University has an acceptance rate of 24.2%, annual tuition of $5,656, average net price of $11,297, and a national rank of #70 (Grade A), with a 85.6% six-year graduation rate, about 32,212 undergraduates, and median earnings of $49,814 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is Florida State 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 State University graduates 85.6% of students within six years and keeps 96.0% 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 State 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
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 | $5,656 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $13,474 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $5,070 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $25,720 |
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 23.0% of Florida State University students receive Pell Grants — below 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 $5,938 to $19,239 depending on family income. Use Florida State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $14,991/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $19,239/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $49,814
- 10-Year Median Earnings $49,814
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $16,100
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 63.0%
- Employment Rate 87.7%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Florida State University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Florida State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Florida State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Florida State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Florida State University graduates earn $49,814 median, the 10.2% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 640-710
- SAT Math 630-700
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 29-32
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 32,212
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 96.0%
- Graduation Rate 85.6%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1
How to Get Into Florida State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Florida State 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 24.2%, Florida State University is highly selective. 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: Florida State University's 24.2% acceptance rate makes it highly selective. Strong test scores, GPA, and a well-rounded application are essential. Early application can improve your chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1270 and 1410 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Florida State University undergraduates. Psychology, General, Finance and Financial Management Services, and Criminal Justice and Corrections draw the most students.
- Psychology, General 8.4%
- Finance and Financial Management Services 5.6%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 5.5%
- Marketing 4.7%
- English Language and Literature, General 4.4%
- Political Science and Government 4.3%
See more majors
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 4.1%
- Biology, General 3.9%
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 $102,516
- 2. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $99,280
- 3. Chemical Engineering $98,253
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Statistics $97,085
- 5. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $96,486
- 6. Insurance $95,930
- 7. Management Information Systems and Services $95,233
- 8. Mechanical Engineering $92,658
- 9. Accounting and Related Services $89,416
- 10. Finance and Financial Management Services $88,996
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $209,572
- 2. Medicine (First Professional Degree) $196,699
- 3. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate) $121,273
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $118,251
- 5. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $108,137
- 6. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $108,004
- 7. Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree) $104,012
- 8. Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degree) $103,763
- 9. Chemistry (Doctoral Degree) $102,739
- 10. Industrial Engineering (Master's Degree) $96,288
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Engineering grads earn $102,516—15% more than Finance and Financial Management Services ($88,996). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $209,572 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Florida State 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 – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 825 graduates)
- Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degree, 550 graduates)
- Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degree, 537 graduates)
- Marketing (Bachelor's Degree, 466 graduates)
- English Language and Literature, General (Bachelor's Degree, 431 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard 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 (77 programs)â–¼
- Psychology, General
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Marketing
- English Language and Literature, General
- Political Science and Government
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Biology, General
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Social Sciences, General
- Economics
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Accounting and Related Services
- Apparel and Textiles
- Sociology
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Real Estate
- Insurance
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Social Work
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- History
- Civil Engineering
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Mechanical Engineering
- Music
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Chemical Engineering
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Mathematics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Statistics
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Philosophy
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Anthropology
- Computer Engineering
- Security Science and Technology
- Industrial Engineering
- Chemistry
- Design and Applied Arts
- Physics
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Special Education and Teaching
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Business/Commerce, General
- Geography and Cartography
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Dance
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Area Studies
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Computational Science
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Public Health
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
Online Master's Degrees (66 programs)â–¼
- Accounting and Related Services
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Music
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Psychology, General
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Chemistry
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Public Administration
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Public Health
- Statistics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Geography and Cartography
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Political Science and Government
- Mechanical Engineering
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Physics
- Biology, General
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Anthropology
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Philosophy
- History
- Dance
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Sociology
- English Language and Literature, General
- Industrial Engineering
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Computational Science
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Design and Applied Arts
- Demography and Population Studies
- Area Studies
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Chemical Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Security Science and Technology
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Materials Sciences
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Apparel and Textiles
Online Doctoral Degrees (54 programs)â–¼
- Chemistry
- Music
- English Language and Literature, General
- Physics
- Biology, General
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Statistics
- Psychology, General
- Curriculum and Instruction
- History
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Mathematics
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Civil Engineering
- Business/Commerce, General
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Sociology
- Public Administration
- Economics
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Political Science and Government
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Industrial Engineering
- Geography and Cartography
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Information Science/Studies
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Communication and Media Studies
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Social Work
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Philosophy
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Computational Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Materials Sciences
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (3 programs)â–¼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)â–¼
- Law
- Medicine
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 32,212
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 43.9%
- Female Students 56.1%
- Caucasian 57.6%
- Asian 3.8%
- Hispanic 23.5%
- Black 7.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients 23.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Florida State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Florida State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Florida State 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 State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: About 23.0% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Florida State 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 State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Ranking #70 nationally, Florida State University combines competitive admissions with 10.2% ROI, positioning itself among America's stronger universities. The institution balances academic rigor with $49,814 in median post-graduation earnings.
Students complete degrees at 85.6% six-year rates, with 96.0% retention reflecting solid satisfaction. The $11,297 annual net price falls in the moderate range, though 137 institutions deliver comparable outcomes at lower costs.
Competitive Selective University: Florida State University's Market Position
A grade | #70 of 6101 | 96.4/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total)
Competitive Positioning: Florida State University occupies the competitive selective tier—not elite enough for automatic career advantages, but strong enough to provide quality education and reasonable outcomes. The 10.2% ROI reflects this middle ground: better than most, but not top-tier.
Value for Money: $11,297 annually produces $49,814 median earnings—a reasonable but not exceptional return. Students choosing Florida State University should evaluate whether the institution's specific programs, location, or campus culture justify costs versus higher-ROI alternatives.
Who Succeeds Here: Self-directed students who maximize campus resources (research, internships, networking) achieve outcomes rivaling higher-ranked schools. Students seeking specific programs or geographic locations find strong value. Those needing extensive hand-holding may struggle in larger university environments.
Final Assessment: Florida State University's #70 ranking and A grade reflect solid performance across metrics. With 137 schools offering better ROI, value-focused students should compare carefully. However, for students who fit the institution's culture and programs, outcomes justify investment.
Key Takeaways
- 85.6% six-year graduation rate sits 23.1 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 96.0% first-year retention is 19.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 10.2% return on investment is 75.1 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $49,814 run about 14% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $11,297 is roughly $6,100 lower than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 17:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 96.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 87.7% employment rate within three years sits 19.5 points above national outcomes.
- Pell participation at 23.0% trails the national share by 16.1 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
Florida State University, a public university in Tallahassee, FL, secures a A grade in our latest review. It holds a #70 national ranking Completion earns A, Support B+, Career Outcomes B+, and Affordability B.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 96.0% retention and 85.6% six-year graduation. The reported ROI is 10.2%, 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 $11,297 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $25,720.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $14,423 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $16,100 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 23.0% 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
Median earnings come in near $49,814 six years after enrollment. Compared with the national median, that's 14% higher.
Employment outcomes report about 87.7% of alumni working within three years.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 10.2%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
24.2% 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 State 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
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Florida State University's acceptance rate?
Florida State University's acceptance rate is 24.2%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Florida State University cost?
At Florida State University, listed tuition and fees are $5,656 per year, and the average net price after aid is $11,297. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Florida State University's ranking?
Florida State University ranks #70 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Florida State University's graduation rate?
At Florida State University, the six-year graduation rate is 85.6%, and first-year retention is 96.0%.
What are Florida State University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Florida State University report median earnings of $49,814 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Florida State University's student population?
Florida State University enrolls about 32,212 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Tallahassee, FL 32306-1037
- Website www.fsu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$947.0M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate4.7%