Airport and Transportation Information
There are two major international airports within the vicinity of FIU.
Miami International Airport is 15 minutes from the Modesto A. Maidique Campus and FIU Downtown on Brickell, or 30 minutes from the FIU at I-75 location.
Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport is approximately 45 minutes from the Modesto A. Maidique Campus and FIU Downtown on Brickell, or 30 minutes from the FIU at I-75 location.
Before you arrive in Miami, it is a good idea to have your ground transportation from the airport planned out. Miami has a large rideshare presence via Uber and Lyft. Taxis are also available at the airport. If you are staying in a hotel for your first days in Miami, many hotels also provide ground transportation from the airport, and you can contact the hotel for more information on the availability of this service.
Important Documents
Be sure to bring all your important documents in your hand baggage.
The following documents are needed when arriving to the US:
- A passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date
- Your F-1 visa
- Your I20 – be sure to bring a printed copy with you!
- Copies of your admission letter and financial documents
- Evidence that you have paid your SEVIS fee
- Evidence that your first semester in the US is not 100% online; you can provide a copy of your class schedule as provided by your program
You should also bring information on your student health insurance and any other important documents with you in your hand baggage.
Housing
FIU has Bayview Housing available at the Biscayne Bay Campus, as well as options at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus. On-campus housing must be reserved prior to the start of the semester. More information on housing application deadlines can be found on the housing website.
Prepare for Money Matters
You are expected to have sufficient funds for the period of your studies at FIU as you have shown on your Declaration & Certification of Finances. Do not depend on employment here in the U.S. to cover any significant part of your expenses.
- When you arrive, you will need to cover your expenses. It may take weeks to open a bank account and transfer funds, so plan ahead.
- You may want to bring cash, a bankcard (find out first if it is valid in the United States), prepaid debit card, or traveler’s checks. We suggest you have at least $7,000 available to use immediately.
- Expenses may include, but are not limited to:
- FIU Tuition & Fees
- Medical Insurance Payment
- Books and school supplies
- Payment for on campus housing or off campus rent (note: you may be required to pay a security deposit plus your first two months’ rent before you move in) Avoid carrying large sums of money with you when it is not necessary.
- Avoid carrying large sums of money with you when it is not necessary.
- To make tuition payments visit: https://onestop.fiu.edu/finances/pay-for-tuition/how-to-pay.
For additional information visit the International Student site.