Florida Polytechnic University achieved the largest one-year performance gain among all state universities in the Florida Board of Governors’ 2025-26 Performance-Based Funding Model, earning a score of 87 out of 100 and securing nearly $11 million in performance funding.
The University’s 13-point increase from last year reflects sustained improvements in student success, as well as continued alignment with Florida’s workforce needs.
“This milestone demonstrates what is possible when an institution is relentlessly focused on student success. It is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff, who challenge and support our students every day to achieve exceptional outcomes,” said Dr. Devin Stephenson, the University’s president. “Every decision we make is centered on delivering a rigorous STEM education that equips graduates with the knowledge, experience, and skills employers need. These results affirm that our approach is working.”
Florida Poly’s strong performance was driven by its results across the Board’s 10 metrics. The University earned the maximum score in six of the measures.
“Florida’s Performance-Based Funding Model is a key component of our nation-leading success, and I am enthusiastic each summer to see the year-over-year improvements our universities make for the benefit of our students, faculty, communities, and the state’s economy,” said Board of Governor’s (BOG) Chair Alan Levine.
The University continued to lead the state in one of the model’s most significant measures, earning the highest median wages among alumni one year after graduation. That success extends beyond graduates’ first year, with a recent analysis of new Florida Department of Education data also ranking Florida Poly No. 1 in median wages five years after graduation.
Florida Poly earned top marks as well for awarding 100% of its degrees in Programs of Strategic Emphasis, which the State University System and the Board of Governors have identified as critical to Florida’s economic growth. As Florida’s only public institution dedicated entirely to STEM disciplines, the University is uniquely positioned to prepare graduates for these high-demand fields.
Another area of solid performance was Florida Poly’s 19% increase in its four-year graduation rate, marking significant progress in helping students earn their degrees on time.
Florida Poly’s accomplishment is part of the State University System’s broader commitment to improving student outcomes and serving Florida’s economy.
“Our system’s success is a collective endeavor driven by our institutions, unified, striving toward shared impact,” said Ray Rodrigues, the System’s chancellor. “We prove each and every day that we put student success first, and I’m thankful for the incredible university faculty, administrators, presidents, trustees, and BOG members who push our system to new heights.”
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