Have Questions About Applying to NSU or What It’s Like To Be a Student?
We know the college admissions process can get complicated. Between application requirements, deadlines and knowing whether or not you’d feel at home, there’s a lot to keep track of.
That’s why we’ve complied this list of questions about Nova Southeastern University and the application process. Dive in to learn why (and how) you should apply to NSU.
Academics
Find answers about topics like bachelor’s degrees and Premier Programs.
NSU’s Premier Programs offer unique hands on learning experiences and benefits (including scholarships)—but every NSU degree program gives students an edge. Learn about the programs we offer and any additional application requirements.
The Dual Admission program in Dentistry at NSU Florida awards a bachelor's degree and a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) in seven or eight years.
Yes, NSU Florida has multiple medical schools to help you prepare for a career in the medical field. These include the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine and Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences. NSU also has world-class colleges for dental medicine, medical sciences, nursing, optometry, pharmacy and psychology.
All students new to NSU Florida (freshmen and transfer students) must register for their first-semester classes with their academic advisor prior to attending orientation. Returning students can learn more about registering for classes through the Undergraduate Academic Advising Center.
Students enrolled at NSU Florida for 12 or more credit hours during fall, winter or summer semesters are considered full-time students.
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is a top-ranked university comprised of more than 14 colleges, schools and centers. These are located at NSU's central campus in Fort Lauderdale/Davie as well as eight regional campuses across Florida.
One of the most selective dental schools in the United States, NSU Florida's College of Dental Medicine boasts distinguished faculty, advanced technology and innovative curriculum that have allowed the College to create a uniquely rich learning environment for its students while earning the respect of the dental profession and dental educators throughout the world.
NSU Florida's Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine is widely known for preparing compassionate, respected leaders in health care. U.S. News & World Report ranked the College of Osteopathic Medicine No. 94–122 in Best Medical Schools: Research and also Best Medical Schools: Primary Care.
NSU's Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine also provides an innovative M.D. program that will challenge you through inspiring hands-on research, patient-centered problem-based curriculum and a unique collaborative structure no other medical school in the nation offers.
NSU Florida is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report, who also named NSU a top performer for social mobility. Niche.com has also recognized NSU for our strong programs, beautiful campus, diverse community and value.
Between outcome-oriented programs, expert and caring faculty, dedicated career coaches and an experiential learning portfolio that gives students an edge, there are many reasons NSU has a reputation for being a good school.
NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate's, baccalaureate, master's, educational specialist, doctoral and professional degrees.
NSU Florida is known for having excellent undergraduate, graduate and professional programs and a strong research focus. With 89+ research partners and 100+ corporate partners, NSU is able to provide unparalleled opportunities for students to research, problem-solve, practice and build their professional network before they even graduate.
NSU is also known for our impact on health care: we are the largest educator of physicians in Florida, and poised to be the largest in the country by 2025. You can discover more about what NSU is known for by exploring our Fast Facts page.
Admissions and Funding
Get help with everything from filing the FAFSA to submitting your deposit.
If you’ve decided to apply to Nova Southeastern University, you’re already a step ahead. This section can help you learn what you need to do to apply, enroll and fund your college education. If you need more personalized help along the way, be sure to contact an admissions counselor.
Yes, NSU Florida encourages students who are Florida residents to complete a Florida Financial Aid Application and the NSU State Aid Application so they may be eligible for a Bright Futures Scholarship.
NSU Florida offers countless scholarship opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and first professional students aimed at recognizing the academic achievement and leadership potential of future students.
These include $22K+ tuition scholarships for select Premier Programs, the President's Scholarship that covers up to full tuition, and various other merit awards.
No, NSU Florida does not require the SAT essay or the ACT writing section. There is also no essay requirement when applying to NSU.
Note that undergraduate applicants for the 2025-26 admission cycle may choose to have their application reviewed for admission with or without the submission of SAT or ACT scores. However, Dual Admission programs will require test scores. Refer to our undergraduate admission test-optional policy FAQs for more information.
If you have a Florida Prepaid College Plan, NSU will bill your plan for tuition, fees and costs for on-campus housing based on hours of enrollment. However, the Prepaid College Plans are based on the tuition rates of the tax-assisted Florida public colleges and universities.
Because NSU is a private, not-for-profit institution, you will need to cover the difference between tuition, fees and on-campus housing costs and your Pre-Paid Plan allocations through other sources.
NSU Florida offers many scholarships. Some are based on academic standing and leadership qualities, others on your major, grades, ethnicity and any number of things that are special about you. Visit our scholarships page to explore undergraduate student scholarships at NSU.
You can pay your NSU Florida tuition online, by mail, in person or by wire transfer. Visit NSU's Office of the University Bursar to learn more.
The number of credits required to receive financial aid vary by award or program. Pell Grants, for example, are awarded to students who are taking 1–12+ financial aid eligible credits, while the Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) grant requires 12 or more financial aid eligible credits. Visit NSU Florida's financial aid award page to learn more.
There is a $50 fee to apply to NSU Florida whether you use the Shark Select Application or the Common Application. Visit NSU Florida's Tuition and Fees page to learn more.
Undergraduate applicants for the 2025-26 admission cycle may choose to have their application reviewed for admission with or without the submission of SAT or ACT scores. However, please note that dual admission programs will require test scores. Test-optional policy FAQs.
The average weighted high school GPA of entering freshmen is an A-/B+. Visit our Freshman Applicants page to learn more.
While NSU Florida is currently test-optional, the mid-range SAT scores for NSU Florida's entering freshman class are 1100-1340 (combined). Visit our Freshman Applicants page to learn more.
Student Experience
Curious about what it’s like to be a Shark?
Learn about what it’s like to be a student at NSU. Find answers about housing, how to get involved and why our hometown, Fort Lauderdale, is a great place to live.
The NSU Florida community is a friendly, supportive place to live, learn and play. We offer modern residence halls for undergraduate students that put you in the center of everything. Learn more about living on campus >
NSU Florida has the resources and impact you would expect from a nationally ranked university. We enroll more than 20,000 students each year, about 7,000 of whom are undergraduates. You won't get lost in a crowd, though.
With an average undergraduate class size of about 17, you'll benefit from personal attention from professors and a tight-knit sense of community. Learn more about student life at NSU >
The majority of incoming first-year students will end up living in Leo Goodwin Sr. Residence Hall and The Commons. Learn more about living on campus >
NSU Florida has campuses, centers and institutes across the state of Florida. Most undergraduate students attend the campus in Fort Lauderdale/Davie.
NSU is short for Nova Southeastern University.
NSU Florida hosts more than 160 student organizations, ranging from student government and student-run publications to intramural sports and Greek life. Whether you're interested in making friends, pursuing a passion or making a difference for others, there's an organization for you at NSU. Learn more about getting involved at NSU >
NSU Florida's Greek community is comprised of 12 values-based organizations governed by three distinct councils: Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council and Unified Greek Council. Joining a fraternity or sorority provides opportunities for academic support, social networking, service to the greater community and a chance to be a part of NSU tradition.
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) has campuses, centers and institutes across the state of Florida. Most undergraduate students attend the campus in Fort Lauderdale/Davie.
