University of West Florida

Situated in Pensacola, FL, University of West Florida is a well-regarded institution of higher education. It holds the #14 position in Regional Universities South (tie) according to the 2026 U.S. News rankings. It is also recognized as #6 in Top Public Schools. The school features an urban setting and serves 9,971 undergraduate students. The institution maintains a 58% acceptance rate, making it accessible yet competitive. Admitted students typically present SAT scores of 1020-1230 and ACT scores of 20-27. The average high school GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.6. With a 22:1 student-faculty ratio, students benefit from close interaction with professors and hands-on learning opportunities. About 41% of classes enroll fewer than 20 students, fostering an intimate learning environment. Students frequently pursue degrees in Health Professions (22%), Business and Management (13%), and Psychology (8%). Graduates in Health Professions earn a median salary of $51,114 after entering the workforce. The average net price for students receiving financial aid is $8,300. Approximately 47% of students complete their degree within four years. With deep roots in its surrounding community, University of West Florida plays an important role in regional economic development while providing affordable educational opportunities.