The State University System of Florida (SUS) has announced the start of the 2025-2026 academic year, welcoming both new and returning students to its campuses. The system, which comprises 12 public universities across the state, reports a record-high post-graduation employment rate and an increase in the median annual salary for bachelor’s degree graduates to $51,000. SUS also continues to offer the lowest in-state tuition costs in the country.
Chancellor Ray Rodrigues commented on the beginning of the school year: “I am proud to welcome students to the 2025-26 academic year and celebrate the more than 430,000 students across our 12 public universities statewide,” said Chancellor Ray Rodrigues. “As the #1 System in the nation, our commitment to student success is reflected in our focus on providing affordable and accessible high-quality education, setting the standard in ensuring students earn degrees that prepare them for meaningful careers and drive Florida’s workforce forward. I wish all students, faculty, and staff a safe, enriching, and successful academic year ahead.”
Classes begin on different dates depending on each university within SUS. Florida Atlantic University starts on August 16; Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida Polytechnic University, New College of Florida, University of Central Florida, and University of North Florida begin on August 18; University of Florida starts on August 21; while Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Florida International University, Florida State University, University of South Florida, and University of West Florida commence classes on August 25.
