The State University System of Florida (SUS) has begun the 2025-2026 academic year, welcoming both new and returning students. The system continues to hold its position as the top-ranked higher education system in the United States. Over the past year, SUS reported a record post-graduation employment rate, an increase in the median annual salary for bachelor’s degree graduates to $51,000, and continued to offer the lowest in-state tuition rates nationwide.
Chancellor Ray Rodrigues commented on the start of the new academic 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.”
The first day of classes varies among SUS’s twelve public universities. Classes begin on August 16 at Florida Atlantic University; August 18 at Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida Polytechnic University, New College of Florida, University of Central Florida, and University of North Florida; August 21 at University of Florida; and August 25 at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Florida International University, Florida State University, University of South Florida, and University of West Florida.
