General FAQs

Congratulations, you’re a 'Cane! But now what? You have questions. We have answers. Here are the most common questions we get from newly admitted students.

Open All Tabs
  • How do I submit my nonrefundable enrollment deposit?

    To secure enrollment, you must submit your $500 nonrefundable enrollment deposit by the due date indicated on your admission letter. This payment can be made by credit card or electronic check/e-check.

    Log in to the Applicant Portal to accept your offer and submit your $500 nonrefundable enrollment deposit online.

  • How do I submit my housing prepayment?

    After you pay the nonrefundable enrollment deposit in your Applicant Portal, apply for housing by selecting “On-Campus Housing Portal” from the Quick Links section. The link will not be available until your deposit is received. All nonlocal first-year students are required to live in University housing for two academic semesters, as long as space is available. This policy does not apply to first-year students living with parents or legal guardians in Miami-Dade or Broward counties.

    Historically, the University has been able to accommodate all those incoming first-year fall students who apply by the fall housing priority deadline of May 15. Incoming first-year fall students who apply after the fall housing priority deadline will be added to a housing waitlist. Housing beyond the first year is not guaranteed.

    Local first-year students who plan to live off campus can submit a live-on requirement exemption request form via the On-Campus Housing Portal.

    For more specific questions about applying for housing, please review the information provided on the Department of Housing and Residential Life website.

  • When will I know my housing assignment?

    Fall: You will be informed of housing and roommate assignments typically in early-June via the On-Campus Housing Portal and your University email. 

    Spring: You will be informed of housing and roommate assignments in late-December via the On-Campus Housing Portal and your University email.

  • Are first-year students permitted to purchase a parking permit?

    Any student who lives off campus, regardless of class status, is allowed to purchase a commuter parking permit from Parking & Transportation.

  • Can I still apply for financial aid?

    Yes, you may still apply; however, if it is determined that you are eligible, financial aid will be awarded only if funds remain available. Be sure to complete both the CSS Profile and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit any additional tax documents as soon as possible. For more information, visit our Office of Financial Assistance and Employment.

  • Does the University of Miami offer a payment plan for tuition and fees?

    The Office of Student Account Services offers several alternative payment options. Some are administered by Student Account Services, and others are administered by financial institutions. For more information, please visit the Tuition Payment Plans webpage. 

  • Can I postpone my enrollment and take a gap year?

    If you are interested in postponing your enrollment to a future term, you must submit an explanation detailing your proposed plans for the gap semester/year via email to your designated admission officer no later than June 1. We will review proposed plans on a case-by-case basis. Be sure to include "Postponement/Gap Year" in the subject line of your email.

    Please note:

    • Transfer students admitted to the fall or spring semester may not postpone enrollment.
    • First-years admitted for the fall semester may postpone enrollment for a total period of up to one academic year.
    • First-years admitted for the spring semester may not postpone enrollment.


    You will be notified of your postponement status as soon as possible. If unapproved college coursework is taken during your gap year, you will have to reapply as a transfer student and receive a new admission decision, which will include consideration of the new academic information.

  • What do I need to know about Orientation?

    'Cane Kickoff is our new student orientation that marks a new beginning and time of celebration for all incoming undergraduate students. The required program provides you with the foundation for your life at UM. Optional programming is also provided for family members.

    Visit the Orientation webpage for additional information. 

    'Cane Kickoff is held the week before classes begin in:

    • August if you are beginning in the fall
    • January if you are beginning in the spring

  • Can I double major or add a minor?

    Yes, UM not only allows but also encourages students to pursue double majors or a combination of majors and minors across disciplines, especially in unrelated academic fields. Some major combinations might be more feasible than others, but a student’s academic advisor will be sure to provide the necessary direction.

  • When can I add a second major and/or minor?

    Students will have an opportunity to do so when they speak with an academic advisor during orientation.

  • Who can I speak to about disabilities or accessibility resources?

    The Office of Disability Services provides resources to students with disabilities. You can email them at disabilityservices@miami.edu or call 305-284-2374. 

  • Do I have to submit immunization records?

    The Student Health Service website has all the information you will need about health and immunization requirements. You can email them at studenthealth@miami.edu or call 305-284-9100 with any questions.

  • Am I required to participate in the University's health insurance?

    All full-time students are required to obtain adequate health insurance. The annual premium for the health insurance plan offered through the Student Health Service is added to each student’s fees.

    • Domestic students with adequate alternative coverage may opt out of the University’s health insurance and request cancellation via CaneLink.
    • International students are required to enroll in the University-sponsored health insurance program.

  • What is a proxy?

    A proxy user is a person who has been given access to a student’s record. This is a popular option for students who wish to grant access to their parent(s) or guardian(s).

  • What is a 'Cane Card?

    Your 'Cane Card is your on-campus identification card at the University of Miami. All University students are required to carry their 'Cane Card for identification purposes while on campus. With it, you can gain access to buildings (including residence halls, the library, computer labs, and the Wellness Center) and athletic events, check out books from the library, purchase discounted Metrorail tickets, and pay for meals.