collageStudents flock to Florida for many reasons, but did you know one of them is to study pre-med?
Florida has some of the best pre-med schools in the country. These programs provide ample resources and opportunities to support students through the arduous process of applying to med school. To be clear, pre-med isn’t a major. Rather, it’s an academic track that students in any major can follow in order to fulfill the courses required by medical schools.
Students often major in biology or other science disciplines because many of the degree requirements overlap with pre-med requirements, making them the most efficient choices. However, pre-med students can just as quickly major in a different field they’re interested in, such as sociology or English, before committing fully to the science-heavy curriculum of med school.
Best Schools in Florida for Pre Med
Not all pre-med programs are equal. The best ones provide support through advising, a pathway to med school, and extracurricular opportunities related to various health interests.
These opportunities include but are not limited to health-related student clubs and organizations; internships, clinical shadowing, and volunteering; and events where students can network with alumni and/or current health professionals.
The following pre-med schools in Florida fit these criteria.
Many also come with the perks of attending a large research university or a small liberal arts college. Indeed, when selecting a pre-med program, it’s important to consider the overall experience you’re looking for as an undergraduate. After all, you’ll be spending the next four years there.
Here are 10 of the best pre-med schools in Florida.
New College of Florida (Sarasota, FL)
NCF is well-known as one of the most affordable colleges in Florida and the nation. After financial aid, average tuition falls below $8,000 per year.
Students in the pre-med program will enjoy individualized advising and career coaching. Dr. Sandra Gilchrist, a professor of biology and marine science, leads pre-health advising with the help of C-Suite career coaches.
They guide students through research, shadowing and clinical opportunities, networking, the MCAT, and interviews.
Studying at NCF means a unique assessment experience. Instructors provide narrative evaluations in lieu of letter grades for every student in every course.
This allows faculty to forge deeper connections with students and provide more useful feedback going forward. Students also benefit, as the narrative evals can work as excellent starting points for letters of recommendation in med school applications.
Florida Gulf Coast University (Fort Myers, FL)
Pre-meds at FGCU can take advantage of a new mentorship opportunity called Students in Health & Medicine (SiHM) Mentor Program. It aims to connect students based on shared interests and career goals, building networks of future health professionals who support one another.
Lowerclassmen can learn firsthand from upper-level students going through the application and interview process of med school. They build relationships that endure long past graduation.
Biology is the second most popular major at the school, and two-thirds of them are on a pre-health track. There are eight student organizations dedicated to health or medicine.
Thus, you can expect to be well-supported and access people and resources that will help you on your health career journey.
Florida Atlantic University (Boca Raton, FL)
FAU’s Pre-Health Professions Office provides custom advising and learning opportunities through research, volunteering, and clinical experiences.
Pre-med students have the opportunity to participate in summer research at places like Scripps Research Institute and Max Planck Florida Institute.
Due to credit hour restrictions and changes brought by the new MCAT exam, FAU recommends pre-med students choose Biology or Neuroscience as their major. The university also offers a post-baccalaureate medical pathway program for students who already have a bachelor’s degree.
At FAU, pre-med students can choose from many student clubs and organizations, including over 12 health-related pre-professional organizations on campus. Pre-health courses include Current Issues in Biomedicine, Introduction to Pre-Professional Studies & Lab, and a Medical Shadowing Internship.
Ambitious high school seniors can also apply to FAU’s Bachelor’s/MD program.
Florida International University (Miami, FL)
FIU is highly involved in increasing access and interest in healthcare professions among people of all education levels. With programs for K-12, undergraduate, and post-baccalaureate students, the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine is a great place to meet like-minded individuals while exploring various healthcare fields.
One of the unique programs open to FIU and non-FIU undergraduates is Doctors of Tomorrow, a rigorous 5-day pre-med summer course. Its goal is to expand learning opportunities for traditionally underrepresented and disadvantaged students applying to med school.
Another program, the Florida Science Training and Research Fellowship (F-STAR), has been helping prospective med students of underrepresented backgrounds since 2011. Every year, 15 sophomores are selected from FIU and partner institutions to receive year-round, long-term guidance throughout their journey to med school.
University of South Florida (Tampa, FL)
According to U.S. News, USF is the fastest-rising university in the U.S.
If you want to be part of USF’s rising prestige while pursuing a pre-med track, you’ll have access to expert advising as well as unique shadowing experiences.
Many of these opportunities enable students to study at different institutions across the country, including the University of Alaska-Anchorage and the University of Colorado.
In Alaska, pre-med students can learn about rural medicine, while in Colorado, they can learn about emergency and wilderness medicine.
These experiences are integral for the holistic education of pre-med students, especially when it comes to deciding on future specializations.
Locally, pre-med students can gain volunteer clinical experience at Tampa General Hospital, James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, South Bay Hospital, and more.
Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
NSU is a large, private research university with at least 13 pre-health student clubs and organizations.
Nova is especially known for connecting students with extensive internship opportunities. For example, the Summer in Biomedical Sciences (SIBS) Undergraduate Research Program pays participants a $3,200 stipend to work with faculty researchers over a period of eight weeks.
For neuroscience majors on the pre-med track, they have many internship and research opportunities to choose from.
One of them involves conducting research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Summer Research Program. Or they can take part in a Scripps Research program, either on the Florida campus or California campus.
In fact, many of these opportunities are open to pre-med students of other science backgrounds, including chemistry and biology. They also have a pathway to gain professional internship experiences at conglomerates like L’Oreal, SC Johnson, and Johnson & Johnson.
Florida State University (Tallahassee, FL)
As a large and renowned public university, FSU provides pre-med students ample opportunities to strengthen their med school applications.
For one, the Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences (IMS) Division runs more than just pre-med advising. Pre-College SSTRIDE (Science Students Together Reaching Instructional Diversity & Excellence) supports middle and high school students interested in pursuing a STEM career via engagement programs throughout Florida.
Undergraduate SSTRIDE, an extension of Pre-College SSTRIDE, is open to students from FSU, Florida A&M, Tallahassee Community College, and post-baccalaureate students.
The program provides access to unique clinical opportunities in rural and underserved communities as well as group tutoring to help students excel academically.
For students pursuing the Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences BS degree, the IMS Division provides career exploration opportunities through specialized seminars and a senior capstone course.
University of Central Florida (Orlando, FL)
With nearly 72,000 total enrolled students, UCF is the largest university in the nation.
Thus, going the pre-med track here will immerse you in a vibrant learning environment made up of students and faculty of many different interests and backgrounds. Some popular majors for pre-med students at UCF are biology, chemistry, and psychology.
Students also have the option of earning a Health Sciences BS. The pre-clinical track for this degree provides foundational knowledge that students will need in order to enter medicine as well as other health careers.
At UCF, pre-med advisors can provide students with a letters packet; personal statement editing; interview and test practice; and workshops and webinars featuring visiting health professionals.
Med school can be expensive, but preparing for it at UCF doesn’t have to be. Half of all first-time college students graduate with zero debt. Plus, U.S. News ranks UCF as one of the top 15 most innovative schools in the nation.
University of Miami (Coral Gables, FL)
The pre-health advising office at UM is dedicated to helping both undergraduates and post-baccalaureates nurture their passion for pursuing healthcare and prepare for the rigors of applying to med school.
In addition, the school offers over 300 different student organizations, including 11 that are health-related, including Minority Women in Medicine and Medicine, Education, and Development for Low Income Families Everywhere (MEDLIFE).
The Health Professions Mentoring (HPM) Program is also available to help guide qualified pre-meds through academic and career mentoring. Participants learn an enhanced curriculum that will make them even more competitive applicants to med school.
Pre-med students can also attend information sessions and annual Health Professions Fairs to network with med school administrators.
University of Florida (Gainesville, FL)
In addition to extensive pre-health advising, UF gives students access to unique health-related study abroad opportunities that will make them even more compelling to med school admissions officials.
One such program is UF in Cusco, for experiential learning in health professions. This program grants students the chance to improve their Spanish, learn about the country’s healthcare system, work with local health professionals, and experience the cultures of Peru.
UF in Zanzibar utilizes theater as an educational tool to uplift local communities. UF students will work with middle school students to create a play based on their life experiences. In the process, local students will develop English skills and learn about community health issues in their own towns and broader Tanzania.
If you’re interested in studying abroad, note that pre-med required courses should not be taken abroad. This will ensure that your credits will be accepted without a doubt by the med schools of your choice.
Colleges In Florida For Pre-Med
University of Miami
The University of Miami is a highly selective private school in Coral Gables. “U.S. News & World Report” has ranked the UM Miller School of Medicine among the nation’s top 50 medical schools for research. Pre-medicine students are closely advised through the Office of Pre-Health Advising and Mentoring. Along with completing a rigorous science and math curriculum, students are encouraged to job shadow doctors and attend UM sponsored workshops that explain medical school admission criteria. Because evidence of leadership experience may strengthen a medical school application, students are encouraged to become active participants in student organizations. A peer mentoring program to support pre-med freshmen and sophomores is also offered.
University of Florida at Gainesville
The University of Florida at Gainesville incudes a College of Medicine that was ranked the 42nd best medical school in the country for research by “U.S. News & World Report.” The UF pre-health advising team offers individual and group instruction for pre-med students throughout their undergraduate experience. For example, new students are encouraged to attend advising workshops that explain academic expectations, prerequisites and professional dispositions that undergraduates must fulfill to be seriously considered for medical school admission. As students progress through the program, they’re given information about research opportunities, studying for the MCAT and compiling a compelling medical school application with excellent letters of recommendation.
University of Central Florida
With over 50,000 students, the University of Central Florida in Orlando is one of the largest public universities in the country. The university provides a pre-health advising office affiliated with the UCF College of Medicine, located in nearby Lake Nona. Staff provide individual advice and offer workshops on topics such as choosing courses and volunteer activities that foster a student’s intellectual growth and personal development in preparation for a demanding medical career. Additionally, undergraduate students may participate in a mentorship program, through which they receive advice from UCF medical students. Students may increase their skills outside the classroom by participating in research and community services projects through the Pre-Med AMSA club.
Florida State University at Tallahassee
The FSU pre-medicine advising program gives personalized attention to students and arranges panels featuring admission representatives from various medical schools who share tips on how to write medical school applications and make a strong impression when interviewing. FSU emphasizes becoming a well-rounded student through extracurricular activities, such as joining a group like the Multicultural Association of Pre-health Students, which arranges community service projects. Pre-med students are strongly encouraged to volunteer at healthcare facilities such as the Tallahassee Medical HealthCare Center, to gain a realistic perspective of the medical profession and bolster their medical school application.
1. University of Florida
The University of Florida is one of the top-rated universities in Florida, which has a fantastic medicine department. Suppose you want to study medicine and get a global approach right from your pre-med classes. In that case, opting for their unique health-related study abroad opportunities can be highly beneficial.The school helps you get the medical school of your choice. It provides the right curriculum for you to get the basics of the industry. Moreover, the faculties and administration are highly renowned where they will help you get any college you wish for.
Founded In: 1853
Tuition: $ 21,431
SAT Avg. : 1410
ACT Avg. : 29
Acceptance Rate: 31%
GPA: 3.55
Rank: #1 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 352-392-3261
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
Presidential Scholarship: $5,000 per year (Fall/Spring, total $20,000 over four years)
Presidential Gold Scholarship: $8,000 per year (Fall/Spring, total $32,000 over four years)
Presidential Platinum Scholarship: $10,000 per year (Fall/Spring, total $40,000 over 4 years)
Apply for Admission
2. University of Miami
https://7aba04f27f5df685d993c4ac8e6b7a51.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.htmlThe University of Miami is a top-class university located in coral gables, Florida. Doing your pre-med program at this top-rated university will give you a college life experience, and you will be able to use all the resources and labs of this school to gain knowledge.
The pre-health advising office at UM is highly reputed since they help you find the right path that will help you excel in the healthcare industry. There are more than 300 student organizations in this university, including many medicine clubs where you will find a community with similar interests.
Founded In: 1925
Tuition: $ 73,712
SAT Avg. : 1420
ACT Avg. : 28
Acceptance Rate: 33%
GPA: 3.71
Rank: #2 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 305-284-2211
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
Stamps Scholarship- 12,000$- Enrichment Fund
Isaac Bashevis Singer Scholarship- Full Cost of Tuition- Merit-Based Fund
Apply for Admission
3. University of Central Florida
If you want to study in the nation’s largest university, then the University of Central Florida can be a game-changer. The advantage of doing your pre-med at this prestigious college is you will get an opportunity to witness college life before you get into it.
Right from letters packet, personal statement editing, interview, and test practice, the pre-med advisory board will help you with everything to get the top-rated university to pursue your medical degree. The board also allows a proper mentor for each and every one.
Founded In: 1882
Tuition: $ 22,838
SAT Avg. : 1320
ACT Avg. : 25
Acceptance Rate: 45%
GPA: 3.22
Rank: #3 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 407-823-2000
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
Pegasus Program Scholarships- Full Tuition- Merit-Based Fund
Apply for Admission
4. Florida State University
Florida State University is one of the fiend universities that offer an exemplary medicine program that will help you understand various nuances of the medical industry. It is a large university with a beautiful campus and a very diverse atmosphere.The highlight of the university is the Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences (IMS) Division runs more than just pre-med advising. It is called the Pre-College SSTRIDE, which will guide you from A to Z to get the right university to pursue the degree.
Founded In: 1851
Tuition: $ 23,126
SAT Avg. : 1410
ACT Avg. : 28
Acceptance Rate: 32%
GPA: 3.822
Rank: #4 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 850-644-2525
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
National Merit Finalist / Benacquisto Scholarship- Full Tuition- Scholarship Fund
The Presidential Scholars Award- 31,200 $- Merit-Based Fund
Apply for Admission
5. Nova Southeastern University
If you’re looking for a school that will provide you with research and lab opportunities right from your pre-med program, then Nova South-eastern University can be a fantastic choice. The school has more than 13 pre-med clubs and organizations to find out about your community.
Usually, the pre-med students get the most of their experience through the Summer in Biomedical Sciences (SIBS) Undergraduate Research Program, where they will get an opportunity to research with their faculty on various nuances of medicine.
Founded In: 1902
Tuition: $ 54,912
SAT Avg. : 1280
ACT Avg. : 22
Acceptance Rate: 76%
GPA: 3.11
Rank: #5 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 800-541-6682
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
Expected Family Contribution (EFC)- 1,000$- Financial Aid
Apply for Admission
6. University of South Florida
If you want to study in a beautiful campus and a diverse atmosphere, consider the University of South Florida since it has a great reputation for its wonderful campus. Through their top-rated affiliations, you will have hands-on training through many internship opportunities.
lTopics like rural medicine, emergency, and wilderness medicine are provided through top-rated hands-on internship opportunities through Alaska Anchorage and Colorado University. The school provides great mentorship for students who want to find the right university to pursue medicine.
Founded In: 1890
Tuition: $ 23,866
SAT Avg. : 1350
ACT Avg. : 26
Acceptance Rate: 49%
GPA: 3.44
Rank: #6 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 813-974-2011
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
USF Presidential Award- 18,000$- Merit-Based Fund
USF History of Achievement Award- 8,000 $- SCholarship Fund
Apply for Admission
7. Florida International University
Florida International University is not only popular for its medical department, but also has a great program on pre-med coaching. The school offers a fantastic opportunity for students to pursue pre-med and find an opportunity to continue the degree in the same college.
The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine has a huge reputation for providing hands-on training on various topics in the medical industry. You will also get an opportunity to work in Florida Science Training and Research Fellowship (F-STAR) to get training.Founded In: 1965
Tuition: $ 23,803
SAT Avg. : 1360
ACT Avg. : 27
Acceptance Rate: 58%
GPA: 3.44
Rank: #7 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 305-348-2000
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
Presidential Premier Scholarship- Tuition-Free- Merit-Based Fund
Ambassador Premier- 75% Tuition Fee- Scholarship Fund
Apply for Admission
8. Florida Atlantic University
If you want to study in a school where they focus on giving you many internship or summer research opportunities, then Florida Atlantic University can be a fantastic choice. The school provides great facilities for starting your journey in medical school.
You will be working in research centers like Scripps Research Institute and Max Planck Florida Institute. The pre-med program will give you a detailed analysis of current issues in biomedicine and provide you with an introduction to Pre-Professional Studies & labs.
Founded In: 1950
Tuition: $ 24,775
SAT Avg. : 1250
ACT Avg. : 23
Acceptance Rate: 75%
GPA: 3.1
Rank: #8 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 561-297-3000
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
Adelaide R. & Joseph G. Snyder Scholarship- Varies- Merit-Based Fund
Albert Allister Endowed Scholarship Fund- Various- Scholarship Fund
Apply for Admission
9. Florida Gulf Coast University
If you want to study in a school where you will get an opportunity to study in a beautiful infrastructure with a great campus and student body, then Florida Gulf Coast University is a good choice. Located in Fort Myers, the school has enormous opportunities for you.
Biology is the second most popular major at the school, and two-thirds of them are on a pre-health track. There are eight student organizations dedicated to health or medicine, and it will be very beneficial for you.
Founded In: 1912
Tuition: $ 20,390
SAT Avg. : 1310
ACT Avg. : 22
Acceptance Rate: 77%
GPA: 3.22
Rank: #9 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 239-590-1000
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
Benacquisto Scholarship- Varies- Merit-Based Fund
Apply for Admission
10. New College of Florida
Last but not the least, New College of Florida is a fantastic school that will provide you with the right path to find the college for you. Students in the pre-med program will enjoy individualized advising and career coaching: Dr. Sandra Gilchrist, a professor of biology.
Getting a personalized experience from Sandra will help you find great opportunities in the medical industry. Even if you want to get into the top ivy league schools, the school will provide you with the guidance you want. You will get great insights on research, shadowing, and clinical opportunities too.
Founded In: 1965
Tuition: $ 21,048
SAT Avg. : 1340
ACT Avg. : 32
Acceptance Rate: 70 %
GPA: 3.44
Rank: #10 of Best Pre Med Schools in Florida
Contact: +1 941-487-5000
Financial Aid: Here are some of the Scholarships offered by the University,
Benacquisto Scholarship Program – Varies- Merit Based Fund
Apply for Admission
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