University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public university founded in 1853. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 34,924 (Fall 2023) and a 2,000-acre campus located in the city. The university operates on a semester-based academic calendar. The University of Florida is ranked #30 in National Universities in the 2025 edition of Best Colleges. Its in-state tuition and fees are $6,381 and its out-of-state tuition and fees are $28,658.

The University of Florida is located approximately two miles from downtown Gainesville, a college town with over 50,000 students. The Florida Gators athletic teams compete in the NCAA Southeastern Conference Division I, supported by mascots "Gator Albert" and "Gator Alberta". The Gator football team, which plays at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (commonly known as "The Swamp"), is particularly infamous.In 1965, Gator freshmen took part in an experiment with a novelty drink, after which the team became the eponymous brand for the popular sports drink Gatorade. The annual Gator Growl, held each Homecoming weekend, is billed as the largest student-organized pep rally in the nation. Approximately 15% students participate in the school's more than 60 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen do not have to live on campus, but more than 75% choose to do so. All students are invited to attend Gator Night, held every Friday, which provides free late night entertainment and late night snacks.

The school's Herbert Wertheim School of Engineering, Warrington College of Business, Levin College of Law, and School of Medicine have well-regarded graduate programs. The school is also integrated with Oak Hammock, a retirement community, where students can work, complete internships and find mentors. Notable graduates of the University of Florida include home repair television personality Bob Vila, Heisman Trophy winner Steve Spurrier, and former U.S. Senators Bob Graham and Connie Mack.