Florida International University (FIU)

Florida International University drives real talent and innovation in Miami and globally.

High research (R1) activity and high social mobility come together at FIU to uplift and accelerate learner success in a global city by focusing on the areas of environment, health, innovation and justice.

FIU has two campuses and multiple locations. Today, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 58,000 and 260,000 Panther alumni.

U.S. News and World Report places dozens of FIU programs among the best in the nation, including international business at No. 2. Washington Monthly Magazine ranks FIU among the top 50 public universities in the U.S. and among the top 20 public universities contributing to the public good.

At FIU, we are as real as it gets — and what real does makes a real difference.

For four decades, FIU has been one of South Florida's anchor institutions, addressing some of the greatest challenges of our time. We are dedicated to enriching the lives of the local and global community. With a student body of more than 58,000, we are among the top 10 largest universities in the nation and have graduated more than 260,000 alumni.

At FIU, there are so many ways to be more than just a student. Panthers can join one or more of our 300-plus clubs, tailgate at an on-campus football game, visit one of our three museums, take in a concert or join a fraternity or sorority and go Greek. We encourage our students to get out there and become a member of the FIU family.

See Clubs and Organizations.

When it comes to discussing their peers, undergrads are quick to boast that "the student body at Florida International University is one of the most diverse and unique in all the U.S." Indeed, you can find "people from all over the world who attend this university." A large percentage hail from Spanish-speaking countries such as "Venezuela, Colombia, Puerto Rico, [and] Spain." It's really a "melting pot of cultures and customs." Beyond geographical background, students report that their peers are "a very genuine group of people with very smart minds" and "very helpful to each other." One individual elaborates, "They're so friendly that people will leave their bags with complete strangers at the library while they go to the bathroom because it's just that kind of environment." FIU undergrads also tend to be hardworking and dedicated to their studies. "I have never seen such [an] enthusias[tic] and determined group of people. [We stay] up late nights together in a classroom trying to understand the material." Although a few undergrads note that the student body is "mostly composed of commuters" who "do not live on campus" and have "many responsibilities outside of campus, " most agree that "FIU is like a family. Everyone looks out for each other and finds ways to come together."

Sure, academics take priority at Florida International University. But undergrads still manage to carve out time for fun and for extracurriculars. "They have something to do for everyone, and that is a great strength." To begin with, the student council is always organizing activities be it "movie nights, game nights, yoga for beginners, recipe competitions, [or] prize-winning events." What's more, academic "departments will host guest lectures with prominent individuals...[such as] researchers or people with experience in a career related to the field." Undergrads looking to burn off some steam and academic stress love to hit up "the recreation center, as it is nicer than any local private gym," with many saying, "intramural sports [are] a favorite." Lots of FIU undergrads are also "active member[s] in multiple student organizations" with "a myriad of clubs to choose from," ranging from Greek life and theater society to pre-health clubs and the chess team. Taking "drives to Biscayne Bay [or] Miami Beach and food places around town [are a] favorite pastime," as well as sampling all of the "clubs, restaurants, museums, and beautiful parks" around the city. In short, "Miami always has something happening."