Next Steps

Understanding Your Decision

USF student in a green shirt sitting at a table and using her laptop.

Receiving an admission decision is an exciting time for many students, but we know it can be confusing, too. Admission to the 91社区 is very competitive, and we make decisions carefully to ensure every student has the best chance of success. If you were admitted to a USF campus, program or term you didn't originally apply to, it's because we believe this will give you the best start to your life as a Bull.


I haven't received My Decision yet

We know it can be frustrating to wait longer than you expected for an admission decision. Your academic future is important to you and it's equally important to us, so we dedicate time to reviewing your application and making the decision that will ensure your success. There could be several reasons why you haven't received a decision yet: 

We Need More Information From You

Sometimes, we need additional information, such as updated test scores, in order to make a decision about your application. If you receive an email from us requesting more information from you, make sure to follow the instructions to submit your new information as soon as possible to account for processing time.

Your Decision is on the Way

If your applicant portal doesn't indicate that you need to submit new information, and you submitted your application by the deadline, you may need to wait a few days for your decision. A high volume of applications can increase processing times, especially because we complete a careful and thorough review of every application we receive. 


did I receive an admissions scholarship?

Merit-based scholarships add to the excitement of receiving an admission decision, and we know many students are eager to find out if they've been awarded an admissions scholarship. This year, students will be notified of their scholarship status in their acceptance letters. However, scholarship information may become available sooner in your Student Self-Service portal.


I applied for fall but was admitted for summer or spring

You applied for the fall semester, but you were admitted to summer or spring. While you might have to change your plans, you can make the most of your first term here at USF.

I Was Admitted to the Summer B Term

If you were admitted to Summer B, we think you'd be a great fit for our six-week summer session. 

In the Summer B session, you'll get a head start on your journey as a USF Bull. This is a common start term for freshmen students, so you'll be surrounded by other new Bulls as you get used to campus life ahead of the busy fall semester. 

Most incoming students who start in the Summer B session will take two in-person classes (or six credit hours), so it's important to get started on your next steps soon, including applying for on-campus housing.

Next Steps Checklist

I Was Admitted to the Spring Term

If you were admitted to Spring 2026, you'll get to start life as a USF Bull. The spring term is lively and active on all three USF campuses, so you'll have many opportunities to get involved in clubs and organizations as soon as you arrive!

Next Steps Checklist


I was denied Admission to usf

Admission to USF is highly competitive, but denied students have the option to appeal their decision.

Denied Admission and Appeals Process


questions?

If you still have questions about your admission decision, reach out to your recruiter or international@usf.edu.

Contact Your Recruiter