University of Central Florida
UCF's campus locations span from the main campus in east Orlando to UCF Downtown and the Rosen College of Hospitality Management.
Acceptance rate
40.1%
SAT (mid 50%)
1200–1350
Avg net price
$10,411
after aid
Next deadline
Oct 15
EA
Testing
Required
2026 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and University of Central Florida’s admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Getting in is the hard part. University of Central Florida admitted 40.1% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.
Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 1200–1350 on the SAT and 25–29 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.
The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of Central Florida actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.
What they value
Powering New Possibilities
Immerse yourself in new challenges, explore groundbreaking research opportunities and enjoy a student-centered approach to higher education.
UCF offers over 220 degree programs across 12 colleges, designed with an interdisciplinary approach and available in-person, online, and through innovative distance learning.
- PsychologyTop 10 by Enrollment
- Computer ScienceTop 10 by Enrollment
- Nursing RN, BSNTop 10 by Enrollment
Applying
Requirements and deadlines
- Next deadlineOctober 15, 2026 (EA)
- TestingRequired (2026 cycle)
- Recommendations0 letters
- Personal essayNot required
- ApplicationCommon App
Verified from https://www.ucf.edu.
The essays
Supplemental essay prompts
The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.
Every prompt, with how to approach each →
Verified from https://www.ucf.edu.
Cost and aid
What you will actually pay
The sticker price is about $23,133, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $10,411.
Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $58,308.
Verified from https://www.ucf.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.
Campus life
The feel of the place
“Collaborate with engineering students on robot dogs for a musical, catch a concert at the Addition Financial Arena, then explore deep space research, a Tuesday here.”
The campus buzzes with activity at venues like the Acrisure Bounce House and the Addition Financial Arena, hosting concerts, shows, and NCAA sports.
Quick answers
University of Central Florida FAQ
- Is University of Central Florida test-optional?
- No. For the 2026 application cycle, University of Central Florida requires SAT or ACT scores from first-year applicants.
- How hard is it to get into University of Central Florida?
- Very hard. University of Central Florida admits 40.1% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1200 to 1350 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
- When is the University of Central Florida application deadline?
- The next deadline is October 15, 2026 (EA).
- How much does University of Central Florida cost?
- The list price is about $23,133, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $10,411.
- Is University of Central Florida worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $58,308 ten years after enrolling, and 77% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.
Launching soon
Ask Spike anything about University of Central Florida.
Spike answers from University of Central Florida’s own site, then helps you figure out your move. Join the waitlist to get in early.
One email when Spike opens. No card, no account. About the waitlist.