University of Florida (UF) vs University of Georgia (UGA)

Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine State, the University of Florida (UF) and the University of Georgia (UGA), located in the Classic City of Athens, stand as two prominent beacons of higher education in the southeastern United States. While both institutions share a commitment to academic excellence and offer a diverse range of programs, they also possess unique characteristics that set them apart. From their contrasting acceptance rates and popular majors to their distinct student body demographics and graduation outcomes, UF and UGA present prospective students with a choice that hinges on their individual aspirations and preferences. Explore our comprehensive comparison table to delve into the nuances that differentiate these two esteemed universities and make an informed decision about your academic journey.
University of Florida logo

University of Florida

University of Georgia logo

University of Georgia

Overview

Location Gainesville, Florida Athens, Georgia
Campus setting City: Midsize City: Midsize
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 97.0% 95.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 30.1% 40.0%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $30

Graduate: $30
Undergraduate: $70

Graduate: $75
SAT range 1300 - 1470 1270 - 1450
ACT range 29 - 33 29 - 33
Students submitting SAT score 79.0% 45.0%
Students submitting ACT score 46.0% 40.0%
Total number of applicants 51,207 39,229
Total number of admissions given out 15,431 15,685
Admitted students who chose to enroll 6,787 5,819
Yield rate 44.0% 37.1%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Not required Not required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $21,431

Out of state: $43,709
In state: $26,622

Out of state: $45,662
Average net price $9,809 $16,902
Tuition
In state: $4,477

Out of state: $25,694
In state: $9,790

Out of state: $28,830
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $5,800

Meal plan: $4,600
Room/dormitory: $6,292

Meal plan: $4,036
Available payment plans
  • Prepaid tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

91.0%
Average amount $12,758
92.0%
Average amount $11,045
Students receiving federal student loan 9.0%
Average amount $4,927
25.0%
Average amount $5,227
Students taking out private loans 1.0%
Average amount $17,527
3.0%
Average amount $13,477

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 34,876
Men 43.7% Women 56.3%
30,166
Men 42.0% Women 58.0%
Graduate students 20,905
Men 42.1% Women 57.9%
9,952
Men 38.2% Women 61.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Low
Out-of-state students 16.5% 17.5%
International students 8.0% 4.8%
Campus local/setting City: Midsize City: Midsize
Dormitory capacity 11,373 10,050
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Florida New York New Jersey Georgia Virginia Georgia Texas North Carolina Florida New York

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Engineering
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Business
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Engineering
Students to faculty ratio 17:1 17:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 90.9% 87.8%
Dropout rate 2.5% 3.6%
Transferred out 5.7% 7.5%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $236,746
  • Year 2: $182,280
  • Year 3: $190,105
Dentistry (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $105,121
  • Year 2: $124,099
  • Year 3: $145,544
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $94,054
  • Year 2: $113,841
  • Year 3: $123,288
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $95,886
  • Year 2: $101,327
  • Year 3: $114,115
Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $93,755
  • Year 2: $96,183
  • Year 3: $108,258
Chemistry (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $67,716
  • Year 2: $94,408
  • Year 3: $107,267
Systems Engineering (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $90,155
  • Year 2: $91,363
  • Year 3: $103,214
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $98,110
  • Year 2: $92,885
  • Year 3: $98,739
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $84,353
  • Year 2: $90,146
  • Year 3: $98,185
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $86,540
  • Year 2: $88,546
  • Year 3: $97,968
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $107,603
  • Year 2: $120,325
  • Year 3: $122,859
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $101,544
  • Year 2: $111,283
  • Year 3: $122,491
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $122,038
  • Year 3: $117,307
Veterinary Medicine (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $71,726
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $92,754
Marketing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $71,513
  • Year 2: $81,333
  • Year 3: $91,218
Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $87,059
  • Year 2: $71,015
  • Year 3: $85,532
Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $67,138
  • Year 2: $68,778
  • Year 3: $79,772
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $70,908
  • Year 2: $70,456
  • Year 3: $79,190
Law (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,622
  • Year 2: $64,068
  • Year 3: $78,529
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $79,002
  • Year 2: $77,144
  • Year 3: $77,709

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between the University of Florida (UF) and the University of Georgia (UGA)?

    The University of Florida (UF) and the University of Georgia (UGA) are both excellent public universities in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), but they have distinct characteristics. UF is known for its strong STEM programs, particularly in engineering, agriculture, and medicine, and its large undergraduate population. UGA, on the other hand, is renowned for its business, journalism, and law programs, and boasts a more traditional college town atmosphere. While both have vibrant Greek life and strong athletic programs, UF's campus is located in Gainesville, a larger city, while UGA's is in Athens, a classic college town.

  • Which university is better for students interested in STEM fields?

    For students specifically interested in STEM fields, the University of Florida (UF) generally holds an edge. UF has a larger and more comprehensive engineering program, a highly regarded agricultural program, and a top-ranked medical school. Its research opportunities in STEM are also extensive. While UGA has strong science programs, UF's overall STEM focus and resources are typically considered more robust.

  • Which university is better for students interested in business, journalism, or law?

    The University of Georgia (UGA) is often considered superior for students interested in business, journalism, or law. UGA's Terry College of Business is highly ranked, and its Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication is nationally recognized. Furthermore, UGA's School of Law is a well-respected institution. While UF has good programs in these areas, UGA's are generally considered to have a stronger reputation and broader network.

  • How do the acceptance rates compare between UF and UGA?

    Both UF and UGA are highly selective, but UF generally has a slightly lower acceptance rate, making it marginally more competitive to get into. You should check the most recent data on each university's website for the most up-to-date information, as acceptance rates can fluctuate from year to year.

  • What is the campus environment like at UF versus UGA?

    The campus environments differ significantly. UF's campus is located in Gainesville, a larger city with a more diverse population and a wider range of activities. UGA's campus is in Athens, a classic college town known for its vibrant music scene, historic architecture, and close-knit community. Athens offers a more traditional college experience, while Gainesville provides a more urban setting.

  • How do the costs of attending UF and UGA compare?

    The cost of attendance at both UF and UGA will vary depending on residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state). Generally, both are relatively affordable compared to private universities, especially for in-state students. However, you should consult the official websites of both universities for the most accurate and up-to-date tuition and fee information, as well as information on financial aid and scholarships.

  • What are the athletic programs like at UF and UGA?

    Both UF and UGA have strong athletic programs and are members of the SEC. Both universities have a passionate fan base and a rich athletic tradition. UF is particularly known for its football, basketball, and swimming programs, while UGA is renowned for its football, gymnastics, and equestrian programs. The rivalry between the two schools, especially in football, is intense and a major part of the college experience.

  • What are the research opportunities like at UF and UGA?

    Both UF and UGA offer extensive research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. UF, as a large research university with a strong emphasis on STEM, has a wide array of research labs and centers. UGA also has significant research activity across various disciplines, including agriculture, environmental science, and public health. Students at both universities can find opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects.

  • How does Greek life compare at UF and UGA?

    Both UF and UGA have active and prominent Greek life scenes. A significant portion of the undergraduate population participates in fraternities and sororities. Both universities offer a wide range of Greek organizations, and Greek life plays a significant role in the social life on campus. While the specific cultures of individual chapters may vary, both UF and UGA offer a vibrant Greek experience.

  • Which school is better for someone who wants a more diverse student body?

    While both universities strive for diversity, UF generally has a more diverse student body due to its larger size and location in a more urban area. However, both universities are actively working to increase diversity and inclusion on their campuses. You can find detailed demographic information on each university's website.

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