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© Florida Polytechnic University
Florida Polytechnic University

Florida Polytechnic University

Florida Polytechnic University

Introduction

Florida Polytechnic University is a completely STEM-focused, public institution in Lakeland, Florida. As Florida's only 100% STEM institution, Florida Poly offers Bachelor's and Master's degree programs with a focus on Computer Science, Data Analytics, and Engineering. Our hands-on, project-based, and research-based curriculum is designed to prepare students for successful careers in the world's most innovative, cutting-edge industries.

Florida Poly is the nation’s leading institution of change, engineered from the ground up to push the boundaries of education in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

History

Florida Polytechnic University was created by the state in 2012 as its first and only all-STEM public university. The University’s goal: provide an excellent STEM-focused education preparing high-ability students to meet the mounting statewide demand for the high-skill professionals the industry needs to succeed and continue innovating.

In April 2014, Dr. Randy K. Avent was selected by the Florida Polytechnic University Board of Trustees to be the University’s first president. Then, in August 2014, Florida Poly officially welcomed its inaugural class of 554 students which included 394 freshmen, 134 transfer students, and 26 graduate students. Ninety-seven percent of the students were Florida residents.

Mission and Vision Statement

  • Mission Statement: Serve students and industry through excellence in education, discovery, and application of engineering and applied sciences.
  • Vision Statement: Florida Poly will be the academic leader in building Florida’s technology-based economy.

Strategic Plan

Florida Poly 2.0 is the University’s blueprint for the future and consists of a five-year strategic plan and the vision for a robust research park adjacent to campus.

Titled “Advancing to Excellence,” the strategic plan outlines the academic and economic goals the University will work to attain by the year 2023.

Read more on the institution's website

Campus Features

Blend world-class attractions, a fun and welcoming downtown, and a modern campus and you’ve got the Florida Poly experience.

Explore Florida Poly

From our internationally recognized IST building to the go-to hangout spaces - check out what the Phoenix life is like on campus.

Barnett Applied Research Center

In Fall 2022, Florida Poly opened the doors to the Barnett Applied Research Center, a $47 million cutting-edge facility that further strengthened the University's position as a premier STEM institution and an engine for economic development. This 90,000+ square foot building houses research and teaching laboratories, student design spaces, conference rooms, and faculty offices. The building also provides study areas for students and a small amount of administrative space.

Innovation Science and Technology (IST) Building

The world-famous Innovation, Science, and Technology (IST) building is Florida Poly’s primary building located at the heart of the campus. The white-domed IST Building is a moveable and functional work of art. It features a distinctive louvered roof system that can move with the sun providing passive lighting inside the second-floor atrium.

Student Development Center

The Student Development Center is an 8,600-square-foot building that opened in February 2018. The shape of the building was designed to mimic the look of the university’s mascot, a phoenix.

Wellness Center

The Wellness Center is home to Florida Poly's dining facilities as well as several student services and the Nest.

Admissions Center

The 5,000-square-foot Admissions Center was the first building to open to the public on Research Way in December 2013. The $1 million building houses admissions and financial aid staff.

Campus Control Center

The safety of our University community is our top priority. The University Police, Facilities and Safety Services, and Technology Services share this mixed-use facility to provide 24/7 support on campus.

Facilities and Safety Services

The hard work of keeping Florida Poly clean, safe, and in proper working order rests with the dedicated staff of the University’s Facilities and Safety Services Department.

    Admissions

    How to Apply

    • Apply online or complete the Common Application. We are eager to learn as much as possible about the extracurricular activities of our applicants, in particular, how those experiences have contributed to their intellectual and personal growth.
    • Create a Self-Reported Student Academic Record (SSAR). Applicants can link their SSAR within the Admissions Portal or they can email their SSAR code.
    • Pay a $30 nonrefundable application fee. Applicable fee waivers are accepted.
    • Submit scores for the SAT (school code: 7303), the ACT (school code: 2869), and/or the CLT. Test scores may now be sent using Point Click Send. Students can email or text scans/pictures of test scores to their admissions counselor.

    Visa Requirements

    International Students

    Planning to study in the United States? Our international admissions specialists can assist you with everything from visas and testing requirements to academics and employment.

    We understand that there is a lot of information International Students need to know to maintain their F1 status. We are here to help you navigate this process so you can spend your time living and learning at Florida Poly.

    How to Apply - International First-Time College Students

    International students who satisfy all university admission requirements, and pay the $200 enrollment deposit, will work with the Florida Poly Office of Admissions to provide all documentation required for the I-20 process. Students will need to take this form, along with a copy of the acceptance letter and proof of available funds, to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
    Maintaining Legal Status

    All international students must adhere to U.S. government regulations and Florida Polytechnic University's rules and policies.

    Immigration Documents

    Keep your passport valid for at least six months into the future. Do not let your passport expire. Your visa must be valid at the time you enter the U.S., however, it can expire while you are here and you may remain in the U.S. with an expired visa. If your visa does expire please contact your DSO immediately.

    Change of Name or Address

    Students are required to report any name or address change to ISS within 10 days of the change. Please contact your DSO if your address changes. Students are required to also update their address information in their CAMS portal.

    Full Course of Study

    F-1 international students cannot drop below full-time without DSO approval. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations require that F-1 students enroll and complete a full course load each semester to maintain valid non-immigrant student status. There are only a few exceptions to the full-time enrollment requirement for the fall and spring semesters.

    Program Extensions

    Students may need to extend their F-1 status for academic or medical reasons. An application must be submitted at least 10 days before your program's end date.

    Health Insurance

    All F-1 students and F-2 dependents are required to carry health insurance that meets the minimum coverage requirements per Florida Board of Governor’s Regulation 6.009.

    Scholarships and Funding

    We offer generous need- and merit-based scholarships and participate in statewide college funding programs like Florida Bright Futures and Florida Prepaid.

    Institutional Scholarships

    • Alexander Scholars
    • Provost Scholars
    • Florida Poly Merit Scholars
    • Johnson Scholarship
    • Latin American Caribbean Scholarship
    • Florida Poly National Merit Finalist Scholarship

    Out-of-State Scholarships

    • First Generation Matching Grant
    • Florida Student Assistance Grants (FSAG)
    • Florida Bright Futures Scholarship
    • José Martí Scholarship Grant Fund
    • Rosewood Family Scholarship

    Other Scholarships

    It is a student’s responsibility to check whether a private scholarship is valid at Florida Poly. Recipients of private scholarships should coordinate with the Office of Financial Aid and Student Business Services to make payment arrangements.

    • American Muscle Scholarship

    • Community Superhero Scholarship

    • Drifted Scholarship

    • Dronethusiast Women In Science Environmental Scholarship

    • HelpTeaching.com Scholarship

    • Hoshizaki Icemaker STEM Scholarship

    • Look Twice, Save A Life Scholarship ($1,000)

    • Marccx Media Scholarship

    • SEMA Scholarship

    • Swope, Rodante P.A. Scholarship for Philanthropic Efforts

    • The Sure Oak Scholarship

    • X-Medics’ Tantalum Scholarship

    • Zip Recruiter $3,000 Scholarship

    Rankings

    Ranked among universities with impressive histories and outstanding reputations, Florida Poly is creating a name for itself in Florida and across the nation.

    • #1 Public College in the Southeast U.S. – U.S. News and World Report
    • Top 20 Public Engineering Programs without a Ph.D. – U.S. News and World Report
    • #2 Best Value Public College in the Southeast U.S. – U.S. News and World Report
    • #2 College in the Southeast U.S. – U.S. News and World Report
    • #1 College for Veterans in the Southeast U.S. – U.S. News and World Report
    • #2 Highest Average SAT Scores among Public Universities in Florida
    • #1 Highest Salaries of Graduates in the State of Florida University System
    • #1 in State for Grads with Lowest Student Debt
    • #1 Most Affordable Cybersecurity Degree Program in the Nation

    Student Testimonials

    Awards & Accreditations

    Accreditation

    Florida Poly is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and ABET, the global accreditor of college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology.

    Campus Life & Facilities

    The Office of Student Development is committed to the growth, development, and achievement of students at Florida Poly.

    The office works closely with academic colleagues to support students as they learn to be successful and effective leaders in the emerging global community. Our end goal is to create a rich, interactive culture where innovation and learning extend beyond the classroom and infuse campus life itself.

    Coming to college is a unique opportunity for growth and adventure, but the journey isn’t always easy. We encourage all students to get involved in campus activities to build a network of support. Our door is also open, so feel free to drop by with your ideas, opinions, and suggestions. Our offices are located in the Student Development Center and our staff is here to help you make the most of your college experience. The Office of Student Development is part of the Division of Academic Affairs.

    Get Involved on Campus

    Students come to Florida Poly with a passion for STEM, but their interests vary.

    Clubs and Organizations

    At Florida Poly there are over 30 student-led clubs and organizations offered.

    Student Government

    Established in 2014, the Student Government Association (SGA) acts as the student’s voice to the University’s leadership, campus community, and public at large.

    Recreation and Activities

    Recreation and event activities enhance the quality of life for the university community by educating and encouraging participation in activities that promote healthy lifestyles, social interactions, and leadership skills.

    Live where you learn with on-campus housing at Florida Poly

    Living on campus at Florida Poly means more than having a comfortable place to sleep and study. With opportunities to get connected with the campus, to grow as a person, and to participate in the events on campus, you will be in the middle of the action at Florida Poly in the Residence Halls.

    English Language Requirements

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    Locations

    • Lakeland

      4700 Research Way, 33805, Lakeland

    Questions