Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts. The university is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, creative endeavors, and service. The university strives to instill the strength, skill, and character essential for lifelong learning, personal responsibility, and sustained achievement within a community that fosters free inquiry and embraces diversity.

During the fall 2021 semester, there were 59 freshmen and 83 undergraduate students for a total of 142 National Merit Scholars enrolled at Florida State University. The middle 50% high school GPA for the summer/fall 2021 freshman class was 4.0-4.4 and middle 50% SAT scores were 1200-1330.

With 45,493 students enrolled in fall 2021, the student body was comprised of 73.6% undergraduates, 24.4% graduates and 1.9% unclassified. Women accounted for 58.1% of the enrollment and minorities made up 37.6% of student enrollment.

The average age for undergraduate students is 20.5. Students hailed from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. 80.9 of all students were Floridians, and 95.1% were from the United States. Foreign students from more than 130 countries are represented, comprising 4.8% of student enrollment, and 22 foreign countries each contributed 30 or more students.