| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location: Gainesville, Florida
Type: Public community college
Founded: 1965
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Student Enrollment: Around 12,000-15,000 students
Mascot: St. Bernard (Saints)
Colors: Blue & White
Santa Fe College offers a variety of degree and certificate programs, including:
1. Associate Degrees (Two-year programs)
Associate in Arts (A.A.) – Designed for students transferring to a four-year university (e.g., University of Florida).
Associate in Science (A.S.) – Focused on career preparation in fields such as nursing, IT, and business.
2. Bachelor’s Degrees (Four-year programs)
Santa Fe College offers limited bachelor’s degree programs, including:
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.)
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Nursing
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Industrial Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Organizational Management
3. Certificate and Workforce Programs
Santa Fe College provides career and technical certificates in fields like:
Health Sciences (Nursing, EMS, Dental Hygiene)
Information Technology
Business and Entrepreneurship
Public Safety (Fire Science, Law Enforcement)
Affordable Tuition: Lower cost compared to four-year universities.
Pathway to University of Florida (UF): Many students complete their A.A. at SF and transfer to UF through the SF2UF Bridge Program.
Small Class Sizes: More personalized learning experience.
Strong Workforce Programs: Offers hands-on training for immediate job placement.
Diverse Student Life: Clubs, athletics, and cultural activities.
Northwest Campus: Main campus with modern facilities, including libraries, labs, and student support services.
SF Teaching Zoo: One of the only college-owned zoos in the U.S.
Kika Silva Pla Planetarium: Offers astronomy education and public shows.
Fine Arts Programs: Music, theater, and dance performances.
Santa Fe College provides Associate in Arts (A.A.) and Associate in Science (A.S.) degrees.
A. Associate in Arts (A.A.) – Transfer Degree
Designed for students planning to transfer to a four-year university (e.g., University of Florida).
Covers general education and prerequisite courses for a bachelor's degree.
Offers pre-major pathways in fields like:
Business
Engineering
Health Sciences (Pre-Med, Pre-Nursing)
Computer Science
Psychology
Education
B. Associate in Science (A.S.) – Career-Oriented Degree
Focuses on job-ready skills in specialized fields.
Some programs allow students to transfer to a bachelor’s degree.
Popular A.S. programs include:
Health Information Technology
Computer Information Technology
Biotechnology Laboratory Technology
Digital Media Technology
Business Administration
Santa Fe College offers limited bachelor's degrees in applied sciences and specialized fields.
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.)
Organizational Management (Concentrations: Business, Public Safety, Health Services)
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Nursing (RN to BSN)
Clinical Laboratory Science
Early Childhood Education
Industrial Biotechnology
These programs provide higher-level career advancement opportunities and are designed for working professionals.
Santa Fe College offers certificate programs that help students gain job-ready skills in less than one year.
Computer Programming Specialist
Graphic Design Production
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Accounting Specialist
Entrepreneurship
Welding Technology
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Construction and Technical Trades
These programs prepare students for direct employment in high-demand industries.
Santa Fe College offers non-degree programs for professional development and personal growth.
Corporate Training (For businesses and employees)
Trade Skills & Apprenticeships
Healthcare Certifications (Pharmacy Tech, Medical Coding)
IT & Computer Training (Cybersecurity, Network Security)
These programs are short-term, flexible, and career-focused.
Santa Fe College offers fully online, hybrid, and evening programs for students needing flexible schedules.
Online A.A. Degree (For university transfer)
Online Business Administration A.S.
Online Health Information Technology A.S.
Online Certifications (e.g., Medical Coding, IT Security)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) – Organizational Management (Concentrations: Business, Public Safety, Health Services) |
4 Years |
$3,587 (Florida Residents) / $13,323 (Non-Residents) |
|
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Nursing (RN to BSN) |
2 Years (After A.S. in Nursing) |
$3,587 (Florida Residents) / $13,323 (Non-Residents) |
|
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Early Childhood Education |
4 Years |
$3,587 (Florida Residents) / $13,323 (Non-Residents) |
|
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Clinical Laboratory Science |
4 Years |
$3,587 (Florida Residents) / $13,323 (Non-Residents) |
|
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Industrial Biotechnology |
4 Years |
$3,587 (Florida Residents) / $13,323 (Non-Residents)Santa Fe College, USA for International Students |
Santa Fe College (SF), located in Gainesville, Florida, USA, is a public community college that welcomes international students from around the world. SF is known for its affordable tuition, small class sizes, and strong academic programs. Many international students choose SF as a pathway to transfer to the University of Florida (UF) or other top universities.
Affordable Tuition – Lower costs compared to four-year universities.
Pathway to the University of Florida (UF) – Many students transfer to UF after completing their Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree.
Small Class Sizes – More personalized attention from professors.
Flexible Study Options – Offers on-campus, online, and hybrid courses.
Support for International Students – Dedicated International Student Services (ISS) for visas, academic advising, and student life.
1. Associate Degrees (2-Year Programs)
Associate in Arts (A.A.) – Transfer to a 4-year university.
Associate in Science (A.S.) – Career-focused degree in fields like IT, business, and healthcare.
2. Bachelor’s Degrees (4-Year Programs)
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) – Organizational Management
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Nursing (RN to BSN)
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Industrial Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Early Childhood Education
3. Certificate and Technical Programs
Short-term job training programs in IT, healthcare, and business.
Submit an online application via Santa Fe College’s website.
Pay the $30 application fee.
Provide proof of high school completion (translated to English).
Demonstrate English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores).
Provide proof of financial support (Bank statement showing ability to cover tuition & living costs).
Submit a copy of passport (for visa processing).
Santa Fe College offers:
Associate in Arts (A.A.) – For students transferring to a university.
Associate in Science (A.S.) – Career-focused programs.
Bachelor’s Degrees (B.A.S. & B.S.) – Limited four-year programs.
Certificate Programs – Short-term career training.
Check program requirements at before applying.
Apply online at Santa Fe College Admissions Portal
Pay the $30 non-refundable application fee
Application Deadlines:
Fall Semester (August Start): Apply by July 1
Spring Semester (January Start): Apply by November 1
Summer Semester (May Start): Apply by April 1
High School Diploma or GED – Submit official transcripts.
College Transcripts (if transferring from another institution).
Placement Test Scores (SAT, ACT, or PERT – optional but recommended).
Official High School/College Transcripts (Translated to English).
Proof of English Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo – see table below).
Copy of Passport (For visa processing).
Proof of Financial Support (Bank statement showing funds for tuition & living expenses).
English Proficiency Requirements for International Students
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL iBT |
32 or higher |
|
IELTS |
4.5 or higher |
|
Duolingo |
75 or higher |
Students who do not meet English requirements can enroll in the English Language Institute (ELI) at the University of Florida before starting at SF.
Once your application and documents are submitted, SF will review them.
You will receive an admission decision via email within 2-4 weeks.
International Students: If accepted, SF will send you a Form I-20 for your F-1 student visa application.
U.S. Students – Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at.
International Students – Apply for scholarships available at SF.
SF Scholarship Options:
International Student Scholarship
Santa Fe College Foundation Scholarships
New Student Orientation is required for all students.
Meet with an academic advisor to register for classes.
Get a student ID card and access your SF online portal.
Santa Fe College has three main intakes per year:
Semester |
Start Date |
Application Deadline (International Students) |
Application Deadline (U.S. Students) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall (Primary Intake) |
August |
July 1 |
July 21 |
|
Spring |
January |
November 1 |
December 1 |
|
Summer |
May |
April 1 |
April 21 |
Note: Some programs may have earlier deadlines. It is recommended to check the SF website for specific program deadlines.
Eligibility criteria vary based on the program level (associate, bachelor’s, or certificate) and student type (domestic or international).
Must have a high school diploma (or equivalent, e.g., GED)
Minimum GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale) for transfer students
SAT, ACT, or PERT scores (optional but recommended for placement)
No prior college degree required
Must have an Associate Degree (A.A. or A.S.) or equivalent
Minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale)
Some programs require specific prerequisite courses (e.g., RN to BSN requires an A.S. in Nursing)
Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
Some programs require specific skills or prior training
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SF College Foundation Scholarships |
Open to all students; merit-based & need-based |
($500 – $3,000) |
March 15 & October 15 |
|
International Student Scholarship |
For F-1 visa international students; strong academics |
Up to $2,000 per year |
July 1 (Fall), Nov 1 (Spring) |
|
President’s Scholarship |
High school GPA of 3.5+; U.S. students only |
Up to full tuition |
March 15 |
|
Fine Arts & Performance Scholarships |
For students in music, theater, dance, or art |
N/A |
N/A |
|
STEM Scholarship |
For students in science, technology, engineering, or math programs |
Up to $2,500 |
April 1 |
|
First-Generation Scholarship |
For students who are the first in their family to attend college |
N/A |
March 15 |
|
Florida Bright Futures Scholarship |
For Florida high school graduates; merit-based |
Partial to full tuition |
August 1 |
|
Workforce Development Scholarship |
For students in career and technical programs |
Up to $1,500 |
N/A |
Facility Name |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Northwest Campus |
Main campus with classrooms, labs, library, and student services |
|
SF Teaching Zoo |
One of the only college-owned zoos in the U.S.; hands-on learning for zookeeping students |
|
Kika Silva Pla Planetarium |
Offers astronomy shows and science education programs |
|
Lawrence W. Tyree Library |
Large library with study spaces, research resources, and free tutoring |
|
Fine Arts Hall |
Hosts theater, music, and dance performances |
|
Health Sciences Building |
Equipped with labs for nursing, radiography, and other medical programs |
|
SF Gym & Fitness Center |
Free for students; includes a gym, indoor courts, and fitness classes |
|
Student Life & Clubs |
Over 50+ clubs and organizations, including cultural, academic, and leadership clubs |
|
Career & Job Placement Center |
Helps students find internships and job opportunities |
Since Santa Fe College does not have dormitories, students live in off-campus apartments located close to campus.
Accommodation Type |
Location |
Cost Per Month (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 people) |
Near SF College |
$500 – $800 |
$6,000 – $9,600 |
|
Private Studio Apartment |
Near SF College |
$900 – $1,400 |
$10,800 – $16,800 |
|
Homestay with Local Family |
Gainesville Area |
$700 – $1,000 (incl. meals) |
$8,400 – $12,000 |
|
University of Florida Dorms (Limited for SF Transfer Students) |
University of Florida Campus |
$1,000 – $1,500 |
$12,000 – $18,000 |
Additional Living Costs:
Utilities & Internet: $100 – $200 per month
Food & Groceries: $300 – $500 per month
Transportation: Santa Fe College offers free bus rides via RTS (Gainesville’s public transit).
1. Student Clubs & Organizations
SF has over 50 student clubs and organizations that cater to various interests, including:
Academic Clubs – STEM Club, Business Club, Health Science Club
Cultural & International Clubs – International Student Club, Black Student Union, Hispanic Student Association
Recreational & Hobby Clubs – Gaming Club, Music Club, Photography Club
Leadership & Service Organizations – Student Government, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
These clubs help students network, build leadership skills, and make new friends.
2. Sports & Fitness
SF offers intramural sports, gym facilities, and fitness programs to keep students active.
Sports Teams (Saints Athletics): Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Volleyball
Gym & Fitness Center: Free for students; includes weightlifting, yoga, and cardio equipment
Intramural Sports: Soccer, flag football, volleyball, and more for recreational play
SF students also have access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming in nearby parks and springs.
3. Events & Activities
Throughout the year, SF hosts various events, festivals, and workshops, such as:
Welcome Week: Orientation and social events for new students
International Education Week: Celebrates global cultures and student diversity
Career Fairs & Job Workshops: Helps students connect with potential employers
Fine Arts Performances: Music, dance, and theater shows at the Fine Arts Hall
STEM & Business Competitions: Opportunities for students to showcase their skills
These events provide both educational and entertainment experiences, helping students engage with the campus community.
4. Campus Facilities & Student Services
Santa Fe College offers several facilities to support students’ academic and personal needs:
Lawrence W. Tyree Library: A quiet space for studying, with access to books, computers, and tutoring services
Career Exploration Center: Provides career guidance, resume assistance, and internship opportunities
Counseling & Wellness Center: Free mental health counseling and wellness resources
Student Support Services: Includes disability services, veteran support, and first-generation student programs
Santa Fe Teaching Zoo: A unique zoo where students can volunteer or take zoology courses
5. Housing & Transportation
Although SF does not have on-campus housing, students live in nearby apartments or homestays. Gainesville also has free public transportation (RTS buses) for SF students, making commuting easy.
Popular off-campus housing options include:
Apartments near SF College – Shared and private units available
Homestays with local families – Offers a cultural experience for international students
University of Florida Housing (Limited) – Available for SF students transferring to UF
6. Work & Career Opportunities
Santa Fe College helps students prepare for their careers through:
On-Campus Jobs: Part-time work opportunities in libraries, administrative offices, and student services (for eligible students)
Internships & Job Placement: SF collaborates with local businesses for internship opportunities
Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Available for international students after completing their studies
7. Community & Diversity
SF values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming students from different backgrounds. The International Student Services (ISS) office assists global students with cultural integration, visa guidance, and academic support.
The college encourages students to participate in volunteer work, leadership programs, and mentorship opportunities, creating a strong sense of community.
1. Career & Job Placement Services
The Santa Fe College Career and Job Placement Center offers various services to help students find employment:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Helps students create professional resumes.
Interview Preparation – Mock interviews and job interview tips.
Internship & Job Listings – Connections with local businesses and organizations.
Career Fairs & Employer Networking Events – Regular recruitment events.
One-on-One Career Counseling – Personalized guidance on job searches and career planning.
Location: Santa Fe College Career Exploration Center (CEC)
Website: www.sfcollege.edu/career
2. Internship & Work Experience Opportunities
SF collaborates with local and national companies to offer internships in various fields:
Healthcare: UF Health, HCA Florida North Florida Hospital
Business & Finance: Local startups, accounting firms, and corporate offices
Technology & IT: Software development firms, cybersecurity companies
Engineering & Biotechnology: Santa Fe Industrial Biotechnology Program partnerships
Public Safety & Law Enforcement: Police academies, fire departments, security firms
Internships can be taken for course credit in Associate and Bachelor’s degree programs.
3. Placement & Employment Rate
Job Placement Rate for Career & Technical Programs: 85%+
University Transfer Rate (A.A. Degree to UF or other universities): 60%+
Students in career-focused Associate (A.S.) and Bachelor’s programs often secure jobs within six months of graduation in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, and business.
4. Industries Hiring Santa Fe College Graduates
Top Hiring Sectors:
Healthcare (Nursing, Medical Coding, EMT, Radiography, Biotechnology)
Information Technology (Cybersecurity, Programming, Network Administration)
Business & Finance (Accounting, Marketing, Management)
Public Safety (Fire Science, Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement)
Skilled Trades (Construction, HVAC, Welding, Electrical Tech)
SF works with employers in Florida and beyond to help graduates secure jobs.
5. Work Opportunities for International Students
International students with an F-1 visa can work under:
On-Campus Jobs – Up to 20 hours per week while studying.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Internship/work experience during studies.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – 1-year work permit after graduation (STEM students may get a 2-year extension).
Career Services assists international students in finding CPT & OPT opportunities.
6. Notable Employer Partnerships
Santa Fe College has partnerships with major employers, including:
UF Health & HCA Florida Hospitals (Healthcare)
Infinite Energy & IT Companies (Technology & Cybersecurity)
City of Gainesville & Law Enforcement Agencies (Public Safety)
Biotech Firms & Research Labs (Industrial Biotechnology)
Local & National Businesses (Accounting, Marketing, Management)
Acceptance Rate: 100% (Open Admissions Policy)
Who Can Apply? Anyone with a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Santa Fe College does not have competitive admissions, unlike universities.
All eligible applicants are accepted, but some programs (e.g., Nursing, Biotechnology) have additional requirements.
No minimum SAT or ACT score required, though placement tests may be needed for course selection.
While most programs are open to all students, some career and technical programs have limited seats and may require additional requirements, such as:
Nursing (RN & BSN Programs) – Requires a high GPA and prerequisite courses.
Health Sciences (Radiography, Dental Hygiene, EMT, Physical Therapy Assistant, etc.) – Competitive selection based on GPA and test scores.
Zoo Animal Technology – Requires an interview and specific qualifications.
For these selective programs, acceptance rates vary and are more competitive.
Northwest Campus (Main Campus)
Address:
Santa Fe College
3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32606, USA
Houses most academic departments, student services, and career programs
Features state-of-the-art labs, libraries, fitness centers, and cultural spaces
Home to Santa Fe Teaching Zoo, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, and Fine Arts Hall
