University of Central Florida

WinShape at the University of Central Florida

Located in sunny Orlando, Florida, the University of Central Florida enrolls more than 70,000 students —one of the largest student bodies in the U.S. It also offers more than 200 academic degree programs and is consistently ranked as one of the best universities in the nation.

At such a large, vibrant school, WinShape students flourish in close-knit Christian community while enjoying all of the opportunities this premier university has to offer.

Imagine cheering on the Knights at a football game on Friday, then being encouraged one-on-one by your small group leader on Saturday. Imagine coming to the largest school in Florida already having met and made some of your deepest, closest friendships through WinShape’s orientation week. Imagine being sharpened by your WinShape core group on a weeknight, then riding a Disney World roller coaster together less than an hour later.

As a part of the Residential Community at Central Florida, your experience will be large and small in all the best ways. You will be a known and loved member of a Christian community that has fun together, pushes each other toward growth, and helps each other navigate and enjoy everything college life has to offer.

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Applicant Questions

Do you offer tours of the program?

Yes! We host virtual tours led by WinShape College Program staff, including a full overview of the program and time to answer any questions you might have. Tours last around one hour and are available during typical business hours. To schedule a virtual tour, contact Michael Shaw at mshaw@winshape.org.

How long has WinShape College Program been at the University of Central Florida?

The UCF Residential Community’s first class of students began programming in August 2021.

How many new students are admitted each year?

As WinShape is new at UCF, we believe there is wisdom in starting small and growing sustainably. While our first class of students at UCF was less than 10 students, our program is growing toward 30-40 students per incoming class.

Do I have to apply to the University of Central Florida before I apply to the WinShape College Program?

No; however, you must be officially accepted to UCF before we can review your file for a potential interview visit selection. It would be wise to apply to both UCF and WinShape College Program at the same time.

Do you have spring admissions?

No. WinShape College Program at UCF only accepts applications from Fall to Spring each year (specific dates vary from year to year). Applications are for enrollment into the program beginning the following school calendar year.

When do I come for my interview visit?

Interview visits are held in the spring semester each year and will follow an initial virtual interview session. If you are selected for an interview, you will be notified by email at least two weeks prior to the selected date.

When will I know if I have been accepted into the program?

Applications and interviews are handled on a rolling basis. We will let you know in your interview when you can expect a response.

If I am not accepted into the program this year, can I enroll at the University of Central Florida and apply again next year?

Absolutely! Both high school seniors and students in their first year of college may apply for our program.

Does “Residential Community” mean students live together?

Currently, students in the Residential Community at UCF are not required to live together. However, as our community becomes more established, a communal living element is the eventual goal!

Does the program cover my housing at the University of Central Florida?

No, housing is not provided for WinShape College Program students.

Do I have to live in a particular dorm if I am a WinShape College Program student?

No. We do not currently have a residence offering for students, but many WinShape students enjoy choosing to room together after their first year to build stronger community.

Does admission into WinShape at the University of Central Florida include a scholarship?

There is no scholarship associated with admission into the WinShape College Program at UCF. However, WinShape invests in all of its students in the form of fully funded Catalytic Event travel, training and content, and other leadership development resources.

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Programming Questions

Are there times when the whole WinShape at the University of Central Florida community gathers?

Yes! WinShape will host both required and optional community events throughout the school year for the entire WinShape student body to engage in.

How much do the Catalytic Events cost?

All costs associated with Catalytic Events are paid for by the WinShape College Program.

I’m a transfer student. Where do I start in the process?

All transfer students begin with the first year of training due to the foundational role of first-year content. In order to experience the program’s maximum impact, we ask that transfer students have at least three years of college remaining to journey with us.

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Ready to Apply?

Applications are open for 2024-25! Deadline to apply is May 1, 2024.

If you are a current college freshman and are interested in joining our Community, you can apply here through December 31, 2023.