TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—The State University System of Florida (System) is welcoming new and returning students to its 12 public universities for the 2026-2027 academic year, celebrating 10 consecutive years as the nation’s No. 1 higher education state, according to U.S. News & World Report.
“As students return to campuses across Florida, they’re welcomed to a System that has set the national standard for higher education excellence for the past decade,” said System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues. “Our universities are focused on creating opportunities for students to achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals. We are excited to start a new academic year full of possibilities and remain committed to ensuring every student earns a world-class education that prepares them for success in Florida and beyond.”
Students will return to Florida’s public universities throughout August. The first day of class for the Fall 2026 semester at each System institution is as follows:
- Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University: Monday, August 24
- Florida Atlantic University: Saturday, August 22
- Florida Gulf Coast University: Monday, August 17
- Florida International University: Monday, August 24
- Florida Polytechnic University: Monday, August 17
- Florida State University: Monday, August 24
- New College of Florida: Monday, August 17
- University of Central Florida: Monday, August 24
- University of Florida: Thursday, August 20
- University of North Florida: Monday, August 17
- University of South Florida: Monday, August 24
- University of West Florida: Monday, August 17
Additionally, to commemorate Florida’s No. 1 ranking in higher education for 10 years in a row, the System has launched Florida 10 for 10: Celebrating a Decade of Leading Higher Education, a statewide competitive scholarship initiative awarding up to $1,000 to 10 full-time undergraduate students at each participating university. Applications are now open. More information on how to apply through individual institutions is available at flbog.edu/FL10for10.
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About the State University System of Florida and the Board of Governors
The State University System of Florida is a constitutional body led by the 17-member Board of Governors and a Board-appointed Chancellor who serves as the System’s chief executive. The System comprises 12 universities and more than 431,000 students, making it the second-largest public university system in the nation. Florida has ranked number one in higher education by U.S. News & World Report since the inception of the rankings in 2017, recognized for providing high-quality, accessible, and affordable education.