Navigating Your Future: A Guide for International Students at the University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF), located in the heart of Central Florida, Orlando, attracts students from across the nation and around the world. With a wide array of programs, a supportive faculty, and abundant opportunities, UCF offers international students a place to pursue their higher education goals. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements and processes for international students seeking admission to UCF.

Why Choose UCF?

UCF provides access to extraordinary academics, caring faculty and endless opportunities. Boasting over 245 degree programs across 12 colleges, UCF offers a diverse range of academic pursuits. U.S. News & World Report recognizes UCF as a top destination for transfer students, highlighting its appeal and the support it provides. International students make significant contributions to campus learning, innovative research and global partnerships. With 151 countries represented on campus, there's plenty of opportunity to make new friends and enjoy cultural experiences.

Application for Admission

Applying to UCF is a streamlined process designed to be clear and quick, whether you are a first-time college student, a transfer student, or an international student. Admission to UCF is competitive, so it's beneficial to apply early.

Application Timeline

For incoming first-year students, it is recommended to apply between September and November of your high school senior year if you plan to enroll the following summer or fall semester. Applying early may increase your chances of scholarship consideration and housing availability. UCF operates on a rolling admission basis. You will receive an admission decision once all of your supporting documentation has been received.

How to Apply

To begin your application process, visit UCF's website for application information, deadlines, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate International Students

First-Year Students

As an incoming first-year student, you should apply between September and November if you plan to enroll the following summer or fall semester.

Transfer Students

A transfer applicant is one who has completed 12 or more semester hours of post-secondary (college or university) credit hours after secondary school (high school) completion. If you are planning to complete your bachelor’s degree or are seeking a new college with bigger opportunities, UCF provides the tools and support needed to transfer and succeed. The Office of Transfer and Transition Services can assist in making your transition smooth and seamless. If you earn an A.A. or articulated A.S. degree from one of UCF's partner institutions, DirectConnect to UCF guarantees* you admission (*consistent with community/state college and university policy).

Required Documents for Undergraduate Admission

International students must also submit required immigration documents as necessary.

Admission Requirements for Graduate International Students

Your next-level education begins right here. With world-class research, pioneering partnerships and renowned faculty, you’ll enjoy a rich blend of academics, research, culture and fun. UCF works hard to offer graduate degrees that work for you. Explore more than 138 master’s, specialist, doctoral and certificate programs to help you achieve your professional and personal goals.

Before You Begin

Before beginning your graduate application, review your programs specific admission requirements. View application deadlines and requirements for your program here. Some graduate programs require a pre-application before submitting the online application. Some programs may require additional documents. International students must also submit required immigration documents as necessary.

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Academic Credentials

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree, or its equivalent, from an accredited or governmentally recognized institution of higher learning. The College of Graduate Studies reviews academic credentials and conducts internal credential evaluations and GPA calculations for all international applicants. Certain graduate programs require a course by course external credential evaluation. Applicants are strongly encouraged to have an official, course by course evaluation sent directly from one of the above listed services to expedite the verification and evaluation of their international credentials. Transcripts and certificates that are provided as part of the evaluation report by the credential evaluation agency will be accepted as official. Visit the Sample Country Requirements page for a list of country specific documents and evaluation information specific to your country required for admission into a graduate program at UCF.

Master and Doctoral Applicants: If an outside evaluation is required, you will see the following statement; “Applicants applying to this program who have attended a college/university outside the United States must provide a course-by-course credential evaluation with GPA calculation.

English Language Proficiency

International applicants may need to demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following methods:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language
IELTS: International English Language Testing System
PTE Academic: Pearson Test of English Academic
Onsite Assessment: An onsite assessment by UCF Global’s faculty qualified to administer English proficiency assessment and determining that the student is English proficient at the university level.

NOTE: Applicants must submit official test scores to UCF. Any tests not included above are not endorsed by UCF.

Immigration-Related Documents and SEVIS

As an SEVP-certified institution, College of Central Florida is authorized to issue Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status for Academic and Language Students (referred to as Form I-20). The Form I-20 is the document you need to pay SEVIS fee and schedule F-1 student visa appointment at the US embassy near you. International students must submit immigration-related documents to UCF Global.

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Transfer Students Currently in the U.S.

If you are currently INSIDE the United States, attending high school, college, university, English Language programs or other institution, you will be considered a transfer student. Requirements include:

Official transcripts from previous US school attended.
Copy of F-1 visa and I-20s.
CF Transfer Form. Complete the Transfer Form and submit to CF.

Additional Information

Florida BOG Regulation 6.001 (7) authorizes universities to refuse admission to applicants due to past misconduct.

UCF Online for International Students

UCF Online welcomes students from around the globe. In fact, the university currently enrolls students from more than 150 countries. UCF Online was created to give anyone, anywhere access to an innovative education. The majority of our fully online programs are open to students who reside outside of the United States. No presence or travel to the UCF campus is required to complete the programs, so no visa is required.

Support for Online Students

Earning your degree doesn’t have to be a journey you take alone. Whether you’re returning to college or seeking a convenient way to earn your degree, the UCF Online Connect Center provides high-level support, coordination and guidance from admission through graduation. Talk with your coach about creating an application plan.

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