Communications
USF Student-Athletes Achieve Record-Breaking Academic Success
The University of South Florida’s student-athletes continue to raise the bar in the classroom, earning a record-breaking GPA of 3.46 in the Fall 2024 semester. This remarkable achievement marks the 20th consecutive semester that USF Athletics has maintained an average GPA above 3.0, demonstrating the commitment of student-athletes to both their academic and athletic pursuits.
To celebrate these outstanding accomplishments, USF Athletics honored 421 student-athletes—82 percent of the total student-athlete population—at its semesterly Athletic Department Honor Roll ceremony in January. This recognition underscores the ongoing efforts of the Academic Services department, which plays a vital role in ensuring student-athletes excel in their coursework while balancing rigorous training and competition schedules.
A Strong Foundation for Success
Academic Services, a department under the Office of Undergraduate Studies that also reports to Athletics, provides comprehensive academic support tailored to the unique needs of student-athletes. The department plays a crucial role in onboarding new student-athletes through the six-week Summer Ignite Bridge Program, which welcomes incoming freshmen and transfer students each summer. This initiative offers transitional support, leadership development, academic workshops, and community service opportunities, equipping student-athletes with the skills needed to thrive at the university level.
Additionally, the Summer Ignite Bridge Program connects student-athletes with other summer enrollees from programs such as Student Support Services, New Bulls Scholars, and the Summer Academic and Cultural Engagement Program. These partnerships foster a sense of community and ensure a smooth transition from high school to the collegiate environment.
Academic Support Tailored for Athletes
Balancing academics with training and travel commitments presents a unique challenge for student-athletes. Academic Services provides an extensive support network to help them navigate their academic journey. Dedicated academic staff, tutors, and interns offer course coordination, tutoring, mentorship, and technological support to ensure student-athletes receive the assistance they need to succeed.
Each spring, Academic Services hires four to five interns—recent graduates interested in academic support in athletics. These interns receive specialized training and gain hands-on experience in mentoring and guiding student-athletes, contributing to a holistic approach to academic success.
In addition, USF’s robust tutoring program includes 45-50 undergraduate tutors, all of whom have earned a B+ or better in the courses they support. These tutors provide one-on-one and group academic assistance in a range of subjects, ensuring student-athletes have access to the resources they need to excel. Academic Services also collaborates with other university departments, such as the Academic Support Center, to certify and train tutors, ensuring the highest quality of academic support.
A Legacy of Excellence
The record-breaking GPA and continued academic success of USF’s student-athletes reflect the university’s commitment to fostering excellence both on and off the field. Through strategic programming, dedicated support, and a culture of academic achievement, USF’s Academic Services department continues to empower student-athletes to reach their full potential.
With 20 consecutive semesters of a 3.0 GPA or higher and a growing network of academic support, USF Athletics remains a model for balancing academic and athletic excellence. The university’s student-athletes are proving that success is not just measured in wins and losses but also in the classroom, where they continue to set new records and pave the way for future Bulls.