News Summary
The University of South Florida (USF) has made a significant leap in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, reaching No. 88 among national universities and No. 43 among public universities. It reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to educational excellence, affordability, and influential research. USF has made remarkable progress over the last decade, attracting a record number of applications and achieving outstanding fundraising success. The recent appointment of Moez Limayem as the finalist for the presidency is also expected to drive the university towards further advancements.
Tampa, Florida – The University of South Florida (USF) has reached a historic milestone, climbing to No. 88 overall in the U.S. News & World Report rankings of national universities. Previously ranked at No. 91, the university moved up three spots in the annual rankings released on September 23. Among public universities, USF is now ranked No. 43, marking its seventh consecutive year in the top 50.
Over the past decade, USF has made significant progress, surging a total of 71 spots overall and 40 spots among public universities. This upward trajectory reflects the university’s dedication to educational excellence, as noted by USF’s President Rhea Law, who emphasized the institution’s role in cultivating future leaders and contributing to economic growth.
Affordability and Applications
The university also ranks No. 12 among public universities for affordability, with in-state tuition rates costing nearly half the national average. As the university experienced a record number of applications in 2025, it welcomed an incoming class that achieved the highest average SAT scores in USF’s history. This influx of talent has positioned USF as a desirable institution for higher education.
Fundraising and Research Impact
In terms of financial growth, USF achieved a remarkable fundraising record of $184 million from nearly 60,000 donors. The university is also a member of the Association of American Universities, a prestigious designation held by only 3% of U.S. institutions. Furthermore, USF ranks among the top 20 public universities in the country for patents and has secured an impressive $738 million in research funding in 2024.
Graduate Programs and Medical School
The university’s strong academic performance extends to its graduate programs, with 31 assessed by U.S. News, 15 making it into the top 50, and 5 cracking the top 25. Notably, the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine stands out as the top-ranked medical school in Florida, also earning recognition among leading medical schools nationwide.
Student Enrollment and Economic Impact
USF serves approximately 50,000 students across its campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee. With a significant annual economic impact exceeding $6 billion, the university plays a critical role in workforce development, research commercialization, and attracting investment to the Tampa Bay area.
Presidential Selection
In governance developments, the USF Board has announced Moez Limayem, the current president of the University of North Florida (UNF), as the sole finalist for the university’s presidency. Limayem has a long history with USF, having served as the dean of the Muma College of Business for a decade. The selection process involved a rigorous review of highly qualified candidates, ultimately leading to Limayem being nominated as the best choice to lead the university.
Future Expectations
If confirmed, Limayem’s presidency is expected to build on USF’s current momentum and support further advancements in higher education and community engagement. His leadership could enhance the university’s trajectory, helping it reach new heights in serving its students and contributing to the regional economy.
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Additional Resources
- AP News: USF Presidential Selection
- Google Search: University of South Florida
- WFLA: USF Announces Sole Finalist
- Wikipedia: University of South Florida
- KTAR: USF Names Sole Finalist for President
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of South Florida
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