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Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, United States

  • Cost of Living$ 19,680
  • Tuition Fee From$ 14,940
  • Country Rank-
  • Batch Strength20,898
  • Global Diversity4%
  • Gender Ratio29 : 71

Overview

About

Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is a private, non-profit research university located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Founded in 1964, NSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs to its students. The university is known for its strong emphasis on research and its commitment to providing a high-quality education to its students. One of the unique aspects of NSU is its diverse student body. This diversity brings a unique perspective to the classroom, providing students with a global perspective on their studies.

 

NSU is also known for its strong emphasis on research. The university is home to several research centres and institutes, such as the Center for Psychological Studies and the Institute for the Study of Human Service, Health, and Justice. These centres provide students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in their fields of study.

 

NSU also has a strong commitment to the local community. The university's community outreach programs are designed to provide students with the opportunity to give back to the community and to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

 

Ranking

Nova Southeastern University, a private institution founded in 1964 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has become a significant player in higher education, offering a wide range of programmes with notable strengths in health sciences, oceanography, and business. Known for its commitment to online and distance education, as well as its focus on research and innovation through various centers and institutes, NSU has experienced fluctuations in its global and national rankings. In the 2025 QS World University Rankings, NSU placed 1401st globally, a slight drop from its 1201st position in both 2023 and 2024. The university showed minor improvement in the US News & World Report National Universities rankings, rising to 227th in 2024 from 219th in 2023 and 213th in 2022. However, NSU's performance in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings has declined, falling to 801st in 2024 from 401st in 2023 and 301st in 2022.

 

Nova Southeastern University - QS Ranking 2025

In the QS World University Rankings for 2025, Nova Southeastern University is ranked 1401st globally, which represents a slight change from its positions in 2023 and 2024, where it was consistently ranked at 1201st. These rankings provide insight into Nova Southeastern University's standing among international universities according to QS assessments over recent years.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

World University

1201

1201

1401

 

Nova Southeastern University - US News & World Report Ranking 2024

Nova Southeastern University is ranked 227th among National Universities in the US News & World Report 2024 rankings, marking a slight improvement from 219th in 2023 and 213th in 2022. The university's global rankings were 1106th in 2023 and 870th in 2022. These rankings highlight Nova Southeastern University's standing and achievements in the context of national higher education as evaluated by US News.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Global Universities

870

1106

-

National University

213

219

227

 

Nova Southeastern University-Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings for 2024, Nova Southeastern University is ranked 801st globally. This represents a decline from its previous positions of 401st in 2023 and 301st in 2022. These rankings indicate Nova Southeastern University's position among global universities according to THE assessments over recent years.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

301

401

801

 

Learn More About: Nova Southeastern University’s Admission

 

Nova Southeastern University - QS Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Medicine

551

651

-

 

Nova Southeastern University - US News & World Report Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Best Graduate Law Schools

147

147

147

Best Graduate Medical Schools

-

93

93

Best Graduate Nursing Schools

156

123

139

 

Nova Southeastern University - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Clinical and Health

251

301

601

Life Sciences

601

601

-

PG Business and Economics

-

801

801

Psychology

501

501

501

 

Nova Southeastern University - QS Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Medicine

551

651

-

 

Nova Southeastern University - US News & World Report Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Best Graduate Law Schools

147

147

147

Best Graduate Medical Schools

-

93

93

Best Graduate Nursing Schools

156

123

139

 

Nova Southeastern University - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Clinical and Health

251

301

601

Life Sciences

601

601

-

PG Business and Economics

-

801

801

Psychology

501

501

501

 

Course Rankings

LL.M.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Law Schools

147

147

147

 

MIM

Ranked by

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

801

801

 

MS

Ranked by

2022

2023

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

601

601

 

Learn More About: Nova Southeastern University’s Courses

MSN

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Nursing Schools

156

123

139

 

Others PG

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Medicine

551

551

651

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

501

501

501

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Medical Schools

-

93

93

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

251

301

601

 

Business & Management Studies

Ranked by

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

801

801

 

Humanities & Social Sciences

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

501

501

501

 

Law

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Law Schools

147

147

147

 

Medicine & Health Sciences

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Medicine

551

551

651

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Medical Schools

-

93

93

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

251

301

601

 

Nursing

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Nursing Schools

156

123

139

 

Science

Ranked by

2022

2023

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

601

601

 

Biology

Ranked by

2022

2023

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

601

601

 

Business Economics

Ranked by

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

801

801

 

Psychology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

501

501

501

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2025

#1401

-

2024

#1401

#1414

Facilities

The university also provides students with a wide range of extracurricular activities to choose from. From clubs and organisations to sports teams and arts programs, there is something for everyone at NSU. The university's athletics teams compete in the NCAA Division II, and the school's mascot is the shark. Some of the key facilities at NSU include:

 

Residence Halls - 

NSU has several residence halls on campus, providing students with a variety of housing options. The residence halls offer amenities such as air conditioning, cable TV, and internet access.

 

Libraries - 

NSU has several libraries on campus, including the Alvin Sherman Library, Research, and Information Technology Center, which is the largest library in the state of Florida. The libraries provide students with access to a wide range of books, journals, and other resources, as well as study spaces and technology resources.

 

Athletic Facilities - 

NSU has a variety of athletic facilities on campus, including the Rick Case Arena, which is home to the university's basketball and volleyball teams, and the NSU Swim Center, which features an Olympic-sized pool. The university also has a number of other sports facilities, including soccer, softball, and baseball fields.

 

Health Care Facilities - 

NSU has a number of health care facilities on campus, including the NSU College of Dental Medicine and the NSU College of Osteopathic Medicine. These facilities provide students with hands-on experience in their fields of study, as well as healthcare services to the local community.

 

Art Facilities - 

NSU has several art facilities on campus, including the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale, which features a collection of over 6,000 works of art, and the Performing and Visual Arts Wing, which provides students with the opportunity to study music, theater, and visual arts.

 

Student Center - 

The Don Taft University Center, is the heart of student life on the NSU campus. This facility features multiple dining options, a bookstore, a computer lab, and a recreation room, as well as a ballroom for events.

 

Conference and Event spaces - 

NSU provides a variety of conference and event spaces for students, staff, and community members. These spaces include the Carl DeSantis Building, which is a premier conference center, and the NSU Arena, which is a large event space.

 

Notable Alumni

Will Kirby
Will Kirby
American dermatologist
Carole Ward Allen
Carole Ward Allen
Former Director of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit
Anastagia Pierre
Anastagia Pierre
Model

Courses

Admission

Nova Southeastern University admissions in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is known for providing innovative education. NSU provides a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programmes across 16 colleges. The university prioritises a personalised learning experience that encourages academic success and community engagement.

NSU has made its admissions process simple and welcoming. It caters to a broad spectrum of applicants, including first-time college students and international candidates. Prospective students can choose from various application methods. They can use the streamlined Shark Select Application or the Common Application, making the process more tailored to individual needs. With an acceptance rate of 76%, NSU opens its doors to students from all backgrounds, giving them the resources and support to thrive in their studies.

 

Things To Consider Before Applying 

Before applying to Nova Southeastern University (NSU), you should review the requirements. You’ll need a high school GPA of about 3.97. Though standardised test scores are optional, they might still be considered. If you’re an international applicant, you must prove your English proficiency with exams like TOEFL or IELTS. Also, remember the application fees and deadlines.

 

Entry Requirements 

Nova Southeastern University entry requirements are different, based on the programme a student chooses. NSU offers many undergraduate and graduate programmes. To apply, you must know the specific entry requirements. This will help you prepare well for the application process.

Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. You must prove your English skills to apply. To gain admission as an undergraduate, you must achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 79 or an IELTS score of 6.0. Graduate applicants must have a TOEFL score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.0. Another way to meet this requirement is by completing a degree from an accredited U.S. institution.

Nova Southeastern University accepts various qualifications. These include A-levels, AS-levels, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and the International Baccalaureate (IB). The UCAS points you earn depend on the grades you achieve in these qualifications. For example, if you get an A* at A-level, you will receive 56 points. An A grade gives you 48 points, and a B earns you 40 points. For AP exams, a score of 5 is worth 28 points. IB scores are calculated based on the total points you accumulate. Make sure to calculate UCAS points to understand how your qualifications add up.

Below is a summary of the entry requirements for undergraduate and graduate admissions for the 2025 academic year.

Entry Requirement For Undergraduates 

  • Fill out the NSU SharkSelect Application or The Common Application.
  • Provide an official high school transcript.
  • Submit a Letter of Recommendation.
  • Include a Personal Statement or Essay (optional).
  • Under the test-optional policy, submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required.
  • Demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of at least 79 or an IELTS score of at least 6.0.

Entry Requirement For Graduates 

  • A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required for master’s programmes, while a GPA of 3.2 is needed for doctoral programmes.
  • Admission is competitive and takes into account both academic and professional achievements.
  • Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but materials should be submitted at least one month before the start of the term for master’s programmes and two months before for doctoral programmes.
  • Doctoral programmes do not accept transfer credits.
  • A minimum TOEFL score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.0 is required to demonstrate English proficiency.

 

Documents 

Nova Southeastern University document submission is a vital part of the admission procedure.  The admissions process for the 2025 academic year caters to different applicant needs and preferences.

Undergraduate Admissions (2025-26) 

  • Application Completion: Choose between the Shark Select Application and the Common Application.
  • Official School Transcripts: To be submitted by your school’s guidance counsellor.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Optional, with up to three permitted.
  • Personal Essay: Optional component.
  • Standardised Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are optional, except for Dual Admission programmes where they are mandatory.

Graduate Admissions 

  • Completed Application: Tailored to the specific programme.
  • Official Transcripts: Every post-secondary institution you have attended must provide these.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Generally required, though this may vary by programme.
  • Statement of Purpose: Required for certain programmes.
  • Resume or CV: Necessary for some programmes.
  • Portfolio: Required for specific programmes, particularly in arts-related fields.
  • Proof of English Language Proficiency: Required for international applicants, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores.

 

Eligibility 

Nova Southeastern University eligibility will differ for the 2025 academic year. NSU offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Each programme has its own requirements. Here’s what you need to know for applying to both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Eligibility Criteria For Undergraduates 

  • You can apply with either the NSU Shark Select Application or the Common Application.
  •  For the academic year 2025-26, students have the option to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, Dual Admission programmes still require these test scores.
  •  Most new students have a weighted high school GPA between 3.5 and 3.74. This is around an A- or B+ average.
  • The application fee is USD 50 and cannot be refunded.
  • Letters of recommendation are not required. Feel free to submit as many as three if you'd like.
  • Your guidance counsellor must forward your official high school transcripts.
  • Some programmes, like nursing, may have extra admission requirements.

Eligibility Criteria For Graduates 

  • Graduates must fill out the application form completely. Some departments might have extra requirements.
  • You need to submit official transcripts from all the universities or colleges you have attended.
  • Test Scores: Depending on the programme, you may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores.
  •  If you're an international applicant, you'll need to prove your English skills with tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Some might be exempt from this.
  • Certain programmes may ask for more. This may involve additional applications, interviews, or targeted courses.

 

How To Apply At Nova Southeastern University 

If you're wondering how to apply at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) for the 2025-26 academic year, the process is simple. This guide is here to help both undergraduate and graduate candidates.

Undergraduate Admissions Process

  1. Choose Your Application Method: You can apply using the NSU Shark Select Application or the Common Application. The essay is optional for both.
  2. Complete the Application: Fill out the form and pay the non-refundable $50 fee.
  3. Submit Official Transcripts: Ask your guidance counsellor to send your official high school transcripts. They can do this electronically or by mail.
  4. Optional Letters of Recommendation: You can submit up to three letters of recommendation, but they’re not required.
  5. Test Scores: For the 2025-26 cycle, submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional. However, if you’re applying for Dual Admission programmes, you must submit them.
  6. English Language Proficiency (for international students): If needed, provide proof of your English proficiency. You can do this through standardised tests or other accepted methods.
  7. Financial Aid Application: If you need financial help, complete the FAFSA and any relevant state aid applications.
  8. Submit Additional Requirements for Specific Programmes: Some programmes, like nursing or healthcare sciences, may have extra requirements. Check for those.
  9. Track Your Application: Once you’ve submitted everything, keep an eye on your application status through the NSU admissions portal.

Graduate Admissions Process

  1. Select Your Programme: Choose the graduate programme you want to apply for on the NSU website.
  2. Complete the Application: Fill out the NSU graduate application and pay any required fees.
  3. Submit Official Transcripts: Send in official transcripts from every post-secondary institution you’ve attended.
  4. Letters of Recommendation: Usually, you’ll need two or three letters of recommendation.
  5. Personal Statement: Many programmes ask for a personal statement or essay. This should explain your goals and why you’re applying.
  6. Test Scores: Some programmes require GRE or other standardised test scores.
  7. Interview (if applicable): Certain programmes may also require an interview as part of the admissions process.
  8. Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA and look into scholarship opportunities.
  9. Application Tracking: Check your application status using the NSU admissions portal.

NSU offers many resources to help you with your application. UniScholars can guide you on financial aid, scholarships, and provide personalised support based on your academic goals.

 

Deadlines 

Nova Southeastern University deadlines are crucial for applicants. NSU offers many undergraduate and graduate programmes. Each programme has its own application deadlines. These deadlines match the academic terms. Here are the key dates for applying to NSU's programmes in 2025.

Programme Type

Admission Type

Deadline

Undergraduate

Early Decision & Early Action

November 1, 2025

 

Regular Decision 

February 1, 2025

 

Premier Programmes   

February 1, 2025

Graduate

PharmGRAD Application Launch

August 15, 2024

 

PharmGRAD Deadline   

July 17, 2025

 

Decision Dates 

NSU has announced specific dates for admission decisions for both undergraduate and graduate programmes in 2025. Knowing these dates is crucial for a smooth application experience. This information is essential to help you plan and submit your application on time.

Undergraduate Admissions Decision Dates

If you are applying for an undergraduate programme, take note of these key dates:

  • 1 November 2025: Early Decision and Early Action Admissions
  • 1 February 2025: Regular Decision and Premier Programmes Admissions

Graduate Admissions Decision Dates

For graduate applicants, the timelines vary by programme:

  • Master’s Programmes: Decisions are typically made within one to two weeks after submitting your application.
  • Doctoral Programmes: You can expect to receive your decision within one to two months after applying.

 

Nova Southeastern University Selection Criteria 

Nova Southeastern University (NSU) offers many educational options for students. Whether you are an undergraduate or a graduate, NSU has something for you. The admissions process is simple. It checks how ready and capable you are for the academic challenge. Here’s a quick look at what NSU considers when choosing undergraduate students.

Selection Criteria For Undergraduates

  • Applicants may apply with or without SAT or ACT scores (test-optional policy).
  • Dual Admission programmes require test scores.
  • No essay requirement for admission.

Selection Criteria For Graduates

  • An overall undergraduate GPA of at least 2.90 on a 4.00 scale is required.
  • Completion and submission of a Master's Application along with a non-refundable fee.
  • You need to provide transcripts from all the schools you have attended before.
  • Evidence of English language skills for students from abroad.

 

Nova Southeastern University Acceptance Rate 

As of 2021, the Nova Southeastern University acceptance rate stood at 92%. For the 2025-26 admission cycle, NSU has shared details about its acceptance rates and application criteria for both undergraduate and graduate students.

In the 2025-26 admission cycle, students applying to NSU for undergraduate programmes can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. The university’s acceptance rate for undergraduates is 76%.

NSU offers many graduate programmes in areas like health sciences, law, business, and education. While specific acceptance rates for 2025 aren’t provided, the university emphasises its strong academic reputation and diverse student body.

 

Fees 

Nova Southeastern University fees vary based on the programme and whether you're an undergraduate or graduate student. For the 2024-2025 academic year, NSU has detailed the tuition and fees for both categories. Here's a simple breakdown of those costs.Top of Form

Undergraduate Fees

  • Undergraduate Tuition – USD 37,500 per year
  • Application Fee – USD 50.00
  • Estimated Total Cost – USD 62,060 (including living expenses)
  •  Health Insurance – USD 2,464 per year
  • Books and Supplies – USD 2,128 per year
  • Institutional Fees – USD 1,200 per year
  • Housing and Food – USD 16,840 (on-campus)
  • Personal Expenses – USD 3,034 per year

Graduate Fees

  • Graduate Tuition – Varies by programme (e.g., $23,580 for some programs)
  • Application Fees – USD 50.00
  • Health Insurance – USD 2,464 per year
  • Books and Supplies – Varies by programme
  •  Institutional Fees – USD 1,200 per year

Scholarship

Given below are some of the scholarships offered at Nova Southeastern University: 

 

Scholarship Name

Eligibility

Benefits

The Fischler Academy of Education

Bachelor’s and Master's degree students around the globe. 

$21,000 annual tuition scholarship.

Huizenga Business Innovation Academy

Bachelor’s and MBA Degree

$21,000 + $20,000 start-up investment from NSU.

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the university. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

 

Accommodation

There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend Nova Southeastern University. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.

 

UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.

 

Cost of Living

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is known for its beaches, boating, and nightlife, which can provide students at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) with many opportunities for recreation and entertainment. The city has a diverse array of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, as well as shopping and cultural venues. The city also has many parks and natural areas such as Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and the historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Additionally, the area around NSU is home to several major sports teams and venues, including the Miami Dolphins football team and the BB&T Center, home of the Florida Panthers hockey team.

 

In Fort Lauderdale, it is feasible to locate affordable housing for students, particularly in studios or shared apartments. Students can lower their total cost of living by selecting an apartment where utilities are part of the rent. The following are living expenditures that prospective students at the university should plan for:


 

Items

Cost

Off-Campus Accommodation 

$540

On-Campus Accommodation

$637

Transportation

$47

Food Cost

$522

Utility Cost

$140

Entertainment

$49

Groceries

$234

Clothes

$49

Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation 

$1,581

Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation 

$1,678

Annual Cost of Living

$18,972

FAQs