Capuana Wellness & Travel

The 3 best graduate schools in Miami for French expatriates

3 January 2026

Studying abroad can be a fantastic opportunity — and choosing Miami as a destination is a strategic choice for French expatriates. Each institution suggested here offers an international environment, services for foreign students, and the prospect of a global network. Here are three graduate schools in Miami that stand out.

University of Miami (UM)

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Why Choose ?

  • It is a recognized private research university, with a strong international dimension.

  • For French-speaking and expatriate students, it means a demanding academic environment, a solid network, and global recognition.

  • Located in Coral Gables, in direct proximity to Miami, it combines urban life, an attractive campus, and professional opportunities.

To keep in mind

  • The cost of studying and living in Miami is high: anticipate the budget for housing, transportation, and daily life well.

  • The academic pace is demanding. You will need to be ready to commit fully.

  • Checking the support services for international students (visa, housing, linguistic support) is essential.


2. Florida International University (FIU)

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Why Choose ?

  • FIU is a public university in Miami that emphasizes academic quality and a good return on investment.

  • It offers a wide variety of programs (arts, design, business, technology, etc.), which may be of interest to a profile oriented towards digital design.

  • For a French expatriate, FIU can represent a good compromise between cost and quality, while remaining in an international environment.

To keep in mind

  • Bien sûr, voici la traduction :
    “Although very good, this type of institution may not have the ‘elite’ network of certain very prestigious private universities. You must check that the program you are aiming for truly matches your ambitions.”

  • As is always the case in Miami, plan for a substantial living and housing budget.


3. Nova Southeastern University (NSU)

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Why Choose ?

  • NSU (Nova Southeastern University) has a significant international student services department, offering support for visas, etc.

  • It provides access to an international community, which is a plus when you are a French expatriate looking for easier integration.

  • Although it is less known than the first two, it can offer a more ‘accessible’ environment (less elitist, perhaps a bit more flexible) while remaining in the Miami/South Florida region.

To keep in mind

  • The prestige and global network are not at the level of the largest American private universities – depending on your profile and your goals, this can be a factor to consider.

  • Precisely check the desired program, the cost, the fees, as well as the support for international students.

Tips for maximizing your chances as a French expatriate student in Miami

  • Check the admission requirements for international students: tests (TOEFL/IELTS), application files, proof of financial resources.

  • Anticipate the overall budget: studies + life in Miami + housing + insurance + transportation.

  • Highlight your French expatriate profile: bilingualism, dual culture, international openness.

  • Explore the services dedicated to ‘international students’ in each institution (orientation, housing, support).

  • Consider the ‘digital design / artistic direction’ dimension if it concerns you: check that the programs offered are compatible with your profile.

Are you a French expat living abroad?

Choosing Miami as a place to study can be an excellent choice for a French expatriate looking for a dynamic, international, and motivating environment. Whether you aim for academic excellence (University of Miami), a good cost/quality ratio (FIU), or a more accessible option with good international support (NSU), you have several interesting avenues. Being well-prepared beforehand, and aligning your choice with your profile and professional goals, will be the key to success.

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