Over the last few years, one of the biggest trends is students applying to schools in the South. It has become really popular and more competitive. A few of the most popular Southern schools are University of Florida, University of South Carolina and University of Tampa. (U of Tampa is finally building new student housing, opening in the fall, which should eliminate their need to house overflow students in local hotels).
There’s also a direct correlation with name recognition to televised sports. For example, when New England’s most famous quarterback began playing for Tampa Bay, applications and campus visits from students in the northeast to University of Tampa (which contrary to how it might sound is a private not public university) skyrocketed. Curious to learn more about Southern schools linked to sports? Click here for the Southeastern Conference.
However, you should be aware that public universities in some southern states like Texas (guaranteed spots depending on gpa and SAT scores) and Florida have a very high preference for in-state student admits, which means the out of state admission rate is much lower than the general numbers reported overall. Essentially, you need to be near Ivy level stats to have a realistic chance of getting into Florida State or University of Florida if you’re an out of state applicant. Don’t fret though as we can guide you to so many other equal or better options!