Its population is about 180,000. Many employment opportunities exist for students' spouses in Tallahassee. Students can live in relatively rural surroundings and still be only 20 minutes from the University. Extensive sports facilities and active city leagues exist in the city. Because of the mild winter climate, people in this region tend to be outdoor oriented.
Numerous sinkholes provide enjoyable nontraditional swimming areas.
The Gulf of Mexico is about 30 miles from campus. The presentations of the Schools of Fine Arts and Music provide cultural opportunities that are usually available only in much larger cities. The University Symphony, the Flying High Circus, and other theater and music groups give students the opportunity to participate in many activities in addition to their physics studies. FSU has active programs in intercollegiate and intramural sports. Applying Assistantship decisions are based on a student's transcript, GRE General Test scores, and three letters of reference.