UCF: 2024 Requirements, Scores & GPAs

This is the go-to guide for getting into University of Central Florida (UCF). We suggest you read until the end... Not only will we layout the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to UCF, but we’ll also offer creative ways to help your application stand out from the pack. We breakdown UCF statistics better than any article out there and show you how these have changed over time. Also, make sure to check out University of Central Florida (UCF) on CampusReel to see what it’s really like here. If you're interesting in transferring to UCF, the read our transfer guide. You can also use the below calculator to help determine your likelihood of acceptance at UCF

What GPA do you need to get into University of Central Florida (UCF)?

University of Central Florida (UCF)’s average GPA is 4.12. University of Central Florida (UCF) does require GPA. This average GPA means University of Central Florida (UCF) is brutally selective - the most competitive applicants in the world are already applying to the school, in hopes of taking up residence in Orlando, and, somehow, you need to be better. Generally speaking, if your GPA is not at least equal to 4.12 then University of Central Florida (UCF) may be a reach. However, University of Central Florida (UCF) considers the ENTIRE application - we can make up for a weak GPA with more factors that we’ll discuss below. If your GPA is equal to or greater than 4.12, you’re sitting right in the sweetspot.

*BEFORE CONTINUING PLEASE NOTE: GPA and “prestige” DO NOT mean a college is right for you. University of Central Florida (UCF) may seem amazing on paper, but you may hate it... That’s why 700,000 students transfer colleges every year - they end up going to the wrong school. It’s crucial to watch the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can envision yourself on UCF’s campus. These UCF admission statistics do not sufficiently tell you what a college or university is like.

What is University of Central Florida (UCF)’s acceptance rate?

Last year University of Central Florida (UCF)’s acceptance rate was 48.57. However, check out how the acceptance rate has changed over time.

As you can see, University of Central Florida (UCF) is getting more and more difficult to get into. If this trend continue it’s likely that UCF will be even more competitive by the time you apply.

Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into UCF - it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness. Then, use the below data to get a deeper understanding of how your application will compare to the rest of the pool.

Does University of Central Florida (UCF) Require Test Scores?

University of Central Florida (UCF) requires that you either take the SAT or ACT. See the table below for how University of Central Florida (UCF)’s accepted students have performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test scores should you submit. Generally, don’t freak out about taking the test too often. Industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.

University of Central Florida (UCF) SAT Requirements

University of Central Florida (UCF)’s average SAT score is 1175 - this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the below table for a deeper look into how students performed - it’s also very interesting to look at the average test score over time. The trend over time helps give insight into whether University of Central Florida (UCF) is getting more or less competitive.

University of Central Florida (UCF)’s average SAT score is 1175. To be a competitive applicant for University of Central Florida (UCF) your SAT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 1080, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider University of Central Florida (UCF) a “target” school (one that you are likely to get into) you should aim for a score of 1270.

University of Central Florida (UCF) ACT Requirements

University of Central Florida (UCF)’s average ACT score is 77. To be a competitive applicant for University of Central Florida (UCF) your ACT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 70, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider University of Central Florida (UCF) a “target” school (one that you have a good chance of getting into) you should aim for a score of 85.

University of Central Florida (UCF) Requirements

Now you know where you need to be for getting into University of Central Florida (UCF) from a grade and test score perspective. Let’s quickly outline what else you’ll need to provide for your application to get reviewed, and then we’ll move onto the most important section: differentiating your app.

How to get into UCF

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting into UCF. Everything you read above will help prepare you for what you need to achieve to have a shot at UCF, but these steps will take you even further in applying that knowledge and differentiating your application.

Main Academic Excellence that is in line with UCF admission standards.

1. Score at least a 1175 on the SAT or 77 on the ACT.
2. Maintain a GPA of at least a 4.12.

Join Extracurriculars that Align with UCF’s Values.

1. Join your school band, a sports team or another group activity. If University of Central Florida (UCF) values music heavily, for example, then try to participate in an organization related to that topic.
2. Volunteer in your hometown. Orlando has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. University of Central Florida (UCF) wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school - they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Orlando area in general.
3. Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics. UCF needs to see past your test scores and grades - they need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test scores - your experiences should demonstrate that.

Prepare Your Application

1. Write a stellar essay that shows University of Central Florida (UCF) something they can’t figure out from the other parts of your application. For a detailed guide on writing the best college essay, check this out.
2. Get teacher recs that speak to your character. If you know what you’re majoring in and include that in your UCF app, try to have at least 1 recommendation from a teacher in that department.
3. Apply Before the Deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to submit their application, and too much can go wrong during this precious time window. Since many students are applying on the last day, it’s possible that UCF’s own system crashes. Don’t risk the added stress this can cause - submit your app a few days early.