
Florida State University
At the newly opened Innovation Hub in the heart of campus, students have access to all the latest technologies and staff support.
Acceptance rate
24.2%
SAT (mid 50%)
1270–1410
Avg net price
$11,297
after aid
Next deadline
Oct 15
EA
Testing
Required
2026 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Florida State University admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Florida State University admitted 24.2% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s a low rate. Treat it as a reach unless the rest of your profile is very strong.
Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1270–1410 on the SAT and 29–32 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.
The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Florida State University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.
What they value
Preeminent Research, Liberal Arts Roots
Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts.
The university embraces a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and offers leading undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.
- Physics, Chemistry, Statistics, Meteorology, Ecology and EvoSTEM, Research
- Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, PubliGovernance, Behavior
- Dance, Film, Music, Theatre, Creative WritingPerformance, Expression
Verified from fsu.edu and admissions.fsu.edu and admissions.fsu.edu and admissions.fsu.edu and news.fsu.edu and news.fsu.edu and fsu.edu.
Applying
Here’s what to send, and when.
- Next deadlineOctober 15, 2026 (EA)
- Regular decisionDecember 1, 2026
- TestingRequired (2026 cycle)
- Recommendations0 letters
- Personal essayRequired
- ApplicationCommon App
Verified from https://www.fsu.edu.
The essays
Here are the supplemental essay prompts.
The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.
Design an Honors Signature Course at the intersection of two majors from different departments offered at FSU. Provide the course name, a 2-3 sentence description suitable for a website, explain important learning outcomes for students, and suggest a campus resource, faculty member, or organization to support the course.
Up to 350 words
Every prompt, with how to approach each →
Verified from https://www.fsu.edu.
Cost and aid
What will you actually pay?
The sticker price is about $25,720. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $11,297.
Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $61,675.
Verified from https://www.fsu.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.
Academics
These are the most popular majors.
- Psychology, General9% of degrees
- Finance and Financial Management Services7% of degrees
- Marketing7% of degrees
- Criminal Justice and Corrections6% of degrees
- Political Science and Government4% of degrees
- Computer and Information Sciences, General4% of degrees
Campus life
Here’s the feel of the place.
“Build a prototype in the Innovation Hub, grab a coffee at Einstein's, then paddleboard at the 'Rez', a Tuesday here.”
You can eat all you want at Suwanee Room and Seminole Café or grab a coffee between classes at Einstein's or Starbucks, then relax along the lake at the 'Rez,' FSU's lakefront property.
Quick answers
What do people ask about Florida State University?
- Is Florida State University test-optional?
- No. For the 2026 application cycle, Florida State University requires SAT or ACT scores from first-year applicants.
- How hard is it to get into Florida State University?
- Very hard. Florida State University admits 24.2% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1270 to 1410 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
- When is the Florida State University application deadline?
- The next deadline is October 15, 2026 (EA). Regular Decision closes December 1, 2026.
- How much does Florida State University cost?
- The list price is about $25,720. After aid, families pay $11,297 on average.
- Is Florida State University worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $61,675 ten years after enrolling. 84% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.
Launching soon
Ask Spike anything about Florida State University.
Spike answers from Florida State University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.