First-Time-in-College Students - General Overview
A student who has never attended a college or who has attended a college and earned less than twelve (12) semester credit hours of academic credit after high school graduation is considered a First-Time-in-College student.
Application Process
Students apply to the individual university undergraduate admissions office and are encouraged to apply using an electronic application. All universities provide direct access to the State University System (SUS) application online.
Students complete the electronic application and print out and mail in a form certifying that the information is correct. An application fee is required. Students unable to afford the application fee should check with their high school guidance counselor or university admissions office to see if they are eligible for an application fee waiver.
Universities will require students to submit official copies of their high school transcript and admission test scores (ACT with writing or SAT Reasoning Test). If they have participated in dual enrollment or attended any postsecondary institution, official transcripts from the college or university is also required. In addition, dependent students must include a parent's or legal guardian's signature in the appropriate section to claim Florida residency (and pay in-state tuition).
Timeline
Spring of High School Junior Year
- Send your ACT with writing and/or SAT scores to the university
- Put your name on the university mailing list.
Fall of High School Senior Year
- Continue to take rigorous coursework.
- Submit your online application, transcripts, and test scores to the university, along with the application fee (Check with individual university for preferred application period.)
- Submit your housing application and fee (Check with individual university for details.)
- Continue to take the ACT with writing and/or SAT, if appropriate.
- Check university financial aid and scholarship information for submission deadlines.
Winter/Spring of Senior Year
- Continue to take rigorous coursework.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Pay Admissions Deposit, if appropriate.
- Return your orientation reservation.
- Submit your health history and immunization information, as required by your university.
Submit your final high school transcript to the university and any college transcripts for dual enrollment credit received.
NOTICE: Changes to standard admission for FTIC students:
As of Summer 2011, a first-time-in-college student may be admitted if he/she has a high school GPA of 2.5 - 2.99 on a 4.00 scale as calculated by the university. Course work from which a student has withdrawn with passing grades will not be included in the calculation. In addition to achieving the minimum GPA, a student must achieve the minimum scores for each SAT Reasoning Test or ACT section as outlined below:
SAT - Critical Reading >= 460 or ACT - Reading >= 19,
SAT - Mathematics >= 460 or ACT - Mathematics >= 19, and
SAT - Writing >= 440 or ACT - Combined English/Writing >=18.
Students with a 3.0 or higher GPA must take the SAT Reasoning Test or ACT with the Writing Option; however, there is no specified minimum.
Please remember that four (4) credits of mathematics (Algebra I or higher) are required among the 18 specified credits for SUS admissions.
Students are reminded that these standards are System minimums. Universities may establish higher standards based on their university's mission. Additionally, the class admitted may have a higher average of GPA and test scores due to the rising numbers of applicants and space limitations.
