UF HAS A VIBRANT INTERNATIONAL STUDENT COMMUNITY
UF and the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering welcomes students from across the globe to its graduate programs, with numerous support structures and resources in place to ensure the success of all students.
UF International Center
The University of Florida International Center (UFIC) serves as a vital resource for prospective and current international students, providing a wide range of services and support. From via guidance and cultural orientation to academic advising and global engagement opportunities, UFIC is dedicated to enhancing the international student experience. The center fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, helping students navigate the challenges of studying abroad while promoting cross-cultural understanding.
UF Graduate Success Center
The Graduate Success Center, housed in the UF Graduate School, promotes holistic development and creates a community of belonging among all graduate students.
UFGIFT – UF Gator International Focus Team
The UF Gator International Focus Team (UFGIFT) is a diverse team of campus service providers to help international Gators. UFGIFT provides consultation, presents workshops, identifies needs and challenges particular to international students, ensures cross-departmental communication, champions initiatives, and supports students in need.
UF English Language Institute (ELI)
The University of Florida English Language Institute (UF ELI) offers intensive English programs that prepare graduate students for using spoken and written English in an academic or professional context as well as information interactions. Students must apply to the ELI, and classes are held in person each semester. Click the link above for more information.
UF Writing Studio
The UF Writing Studio provides supports independent learning and encourages scholarship by providing one-on-one consultations and workshops tailored to graduate students. The services provided by the Writing Studio are free of charge for all students.
UF Counseling and Wellness Center
The UF Counseling and Wellness Center provides assistance to all students but recognizes international students may experience unique challenges when living in a different country and acclimating to an unfamiliar culture. Short-term, couples, or group counseling sessions are available to students with these concerns in mind. International Focus Counseling Groups are available in English and Mandarin, and print resources are available in multiple languages.
Graduate Student Organizations
The University of Florida has over 800 student organizations on campus, providing a community for all students based on academic interests, hobbies, sports, etc. Click the link above for the full list of organizations. Below are organizations specific to UF engineering.
- A3ECE: African American/African/African Diaspora (A3) in ECE
- A3ECE is a student group formed to provide a forum for UF ECE students from African American, African, and African Diaspora cultures. A3ECE’s mission is to provide support for Black ECE students by facilitating networking opportunities, professional development, and creating a diverse and inclusive community within the ECE department.
- Indian Graduate Student Association (IGSA)
- The Indian Graduate Student Association (IGSA) is a student organization committed to cater to the needs and concerns of Indian graduate students. IGSA promotes the smooth assimilation of Indian graduate students, primarily of international student status into the UF environment and local Gainesville community.
- National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
- The Gator Chapter of NSBE supports Black UF engineering students through social and professional development events, team building, and creating a community focused on professional success.
- Society for Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE)
- The UF Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers is committed to fostering meaningful connections across cultures and empowering Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) professionals in science and engineering.
- Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
- The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) UF chapter coordinates community outreach, corporate exposition meetings, academic development programs, and non-technical events to ensure SHPE UF members are presented with the opportunities necessary to succeed professionally, academically, and socially as Hispanic professionals.