Florida State University Tuition Waiver 2027 for International Students

Florida State University (FSU), a top public university in Tallahassee, Florida, offers international first-year students a University Out-of-State Tuition Waiver. It is a merit award that removes the most expensive part of tuition.

What it covers

• 100% of the out-of-state portion of tuition, about $18,452 per year (based on 30 credit hours)
• Worth about $73,808 over four years if you keep it
• No separate application. Admitted international first-year students are considered automatically.

What it does NOT cover

• The in-state portion of tuition and university fees
• Housing, food, health insurance, books and travel
• Study abroad programmes

International students must also show proof of funds for their first year of study before FSU can issue the I-20 for the student visa. This is a big help, but it is not a fully funded scholarship.

Who can get it

• International students admitted as first-year (freshman) undergraduates
• Chosen on academic performance and test scores
• Funds are limited, so strong and early applicants have the best chance

Keeping the waiver

• Take 15 credit hours each semester
• Keep an FSU GPA of at least 3.0
• Make steady progress towards your degree

Admission requirements for international students

• Online application (application fee: $30)
• Official transcripts and an evaluation of your secondary school results by a credential evaluation agency (this can be waived in some cases)
• SAT, ACT or CLT scores (self-reported)
• English test: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 80 (or 4.0 on the new scale), Duolingo 125, or PTE 55. Ask admissions whether you can be exempt if you were educated in English.
• Essay and résumé / list of activities
• Proof of financial support for the first year

Deadline

FSU encourages students to apply for admission by 1 December 2026 for Fall 2027, because waiver funds are limited. Early action has usually closed around 15 October. Check the current dates on FSU's admissions website.

Already studying at FSU?

Current international undergraduates with a GPA of 3.5 or higher can apply each semester for a separate International Undergraduate Tuition Waiver from FSU's Center for Global Engagement. It covers up to 12 credit hours of out-of-state tuition.

How to apply

1. Read the international first-year requirements: https://admissions.fsu.edu/international
2. Apply online and pay the $30 fee.
3. Send your transcripts, test scores and English results.
4. You'll be considered for the tuition waiver automatically.

Questions: [email protected] · +1 (850) 644-6200

Tips

• Strong grades and a good SAT/ACT score matter most for this award.
• Plan your budget honestly. The remaining costs are still significant, so look for outside scholarships too.
• Never pay agents for "guaranteed" FSU scholarships.