University of Central Florida Student Guide 

Starting college at the University of Central Florida can be an exciting and nerve-racking time. From finding the right student apartment to navigating Orlando and the UCF Campus, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. No worries! We have complied our best tips and tricks in our UCF Student Guide to make the transition easy. We've got you covered from start to finish with articles on everything from apartment hunting, moving in, getting settled and moving out. Check out our advice and become a UCF expert in no time. GO KNIGHTS!


UCF Apartment Hunting

Finding the right Orlando apartment for you is all about figuring out what works best for your lifestyle and preferences. Use this guide to weigh your options and find a home that is perfect for you. Make your UCF apartment search a breeze with our advice on safety features, signing a lease, and more.  

UCF renting vs communting

Renting vs. Commuting to UCF Campus

Choosing to commute or to rent is a big decision since it affects your time, money and lifestyle. Look at the positives and negatives of both and pick what works for you.

when to sign an apartment lease UCF

Best Time To Sign A Lease

Searching for off-campus housing can leave you asking, "where and when do I start?" Spoiler alert: it is best to start early. Check out our timeline to know when to start the apartment hunt and sign a lease.

UCF Saftey Features

Safety Features To Look For

Living in an off-campus UCF apartment can raise safety concerns. Here are the features you should look for in your student apartment to have some peace of mind.

Individual vs Joint Leasing UCF

Individual vs Joint Leasing

Orlando apartments offer many options for both apartments with individual and joint leases. Learn about the difference between the two and what each brings to the table.

UCF apartment search

Search UCF Apartments

Check out this customized search to make finding UCF Off-Campus Housing simple. Filter your apartment search by your budget, desired amenities, and more!

Move-In Day At Your UCF Apartment

You've used our 407apartments search and found the perfect apartment for you. Now we're here to help you prep and plan for an easy move-in. We want your transition to the University of Central Florida to go as smoothly as possible, so check out our tips on moving in and getting everything you need for your new space.   

UCF move-in checklist

Move-In Checklist

You'll need a few things before you settle into your new Orlando student apartment. Here's our list of everything to get to make your new space feel like home. 

UCF furnished apartment shopping list

Furnished Apartment Shopping List

A furnished apartment may take the bulk of items off your apartment list, but there are still a few things left to get. Check out everything you didn't know you needed in your furnished apartment.

UCF grocery shopping list

First Apartment Grocery Shopping List

The cabinets, pantry and fridge will all be empty when you move in. Take the hassle out of stocking your kitchen with our grocery list for your first apartment.


UCF Apartment Life

You've found your apartment and moved in. Now it's time to learn about topics like roommates, amenities and pet ownership to be prepped and ready for life in your UCF apartment.   

UCF amenities

Take Advantage Of Your Amenities

Student housing apartment amenities can enhance your college experience and make your life a little easier. Here's how to make the most out of everything from your study rooms to your in-unit laundry.

UCF Living with roommates

Living with Roommates

Finding an apartment is the easy part. Living in the same space with someone else is the challenging bit. Figure out how to handle conflict and set yourself up for success with our guide to living with roommates.

UCF pet friendly

Pet Friendly UCF Student Apartments

Want to take your furry friend with you to college. Check out this pre-filtered search of pet-friendly Orlando apartments to make sure you and your pet are welcome.

UCF Move out checklist

Move-Out Checklist

Whether you're graduating or moving into a new space, here are some practices to make moving out of your UCF apartment stress-free.

UCF hurricane prep

Hurricane Apartment Prep

Always be prepared for hurricane season in Orlando. Learn about what to do before and during a hurricane in your UCF apartment.


Transportation Around UCF 

Get around the UCF Campus like a pro with our tips on everything from riding the shuttle to parking on campus.

UCF Shuttle

How to Use the UCF Shuttle

Getting around campus is quick and easy once you master the UCF Shuttle. Learn about routes, what to expect on game day and more!

ucf parking

UCF Campus Parking Guide

Knowing where to park can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle. Check out this UCF Campus parking guide to ensure your car is in the right spot.

UCF Campus map

Interactive UCF Campus Map

Use this UCF Campus Map to familiarize yourself with area and know exactly where your classes, libraries and more are on campus.


Getting to Know the UCF Area

UCF is just one part of Orlando: there's so much more to explore! Get familiar with nature trails, find your perfect neighborhood and discover the your favorite study spot.

trails UCF

The Best UCF Trails

Looking to take a break and step into nature? Here's our favorite trails near UCF that are perfect for your next walk. 

UCF Nearby Neighborhoods

Neighborhoods Near UCF

Orlando has many neighborhoods surrounding UCF, but which one is right for you? Check out our break down to help you decide where to live. 

yelps top ten ucf

Yelp's Top Ten Near UCF

Going to school at UCF means that you are right next to the expansive dinging options that Orlando has to offer. Check out Yelp's top ten restaurants near campus.

UCF study spots

The Best Study Spots On Campus

Get ready to knock out some schoolwork in the best study nooks that the University of Central Florida has to offer.

ucf off campus study spots

The Best Study Spots Off Campus

Orlando is full of unique, quiet study spaces for you to get a change of scenery and be more productive. Check out our favorite off campus study spots! 

Life as a UCF Student

The University of Central Florida has so much to do from activities, to nature, to food. Check out these resources on our UCF Student Guide to get the most out of your time at UCF and get involved!

ucf student discounts

UCF Student Discounts

Take full advantage of your status as a college student and save money with these discounts for UCF students.

ucf voter guide

UCF Voter Guide

You may want to make your voice heard while in college and vote. It can be a confusing process, so check out our guide to make voting simple and easy!

getting involved ucf

Getting Involved on UCF Campus

Ready to make the most out of your time at UCF? Check out our guide to getting involved on campus and finding the right organization for you!

UCF events

Upcoming UCF Events

There's always something going on at UCF. Keep up to date with the latest events and stay involved!

apartments near full sail

Areas to Consider When Attending Full Sail

In the fun and friendly city of Winter Park, Full Sail is close to plenty of great food, attractions, and shopping. Check out the surrounding areas to find your perfect Full Sail apartment.