Florida International University is a top public university that drives talent and innovation in Miami and globally. Founded in 1965 by the Florida Legislature, the school opened its doors to students in 1972. FIU has grown to become the third-largest university in Florida and the eighth-largest public university in the United States by enrollment. FIU is a constituent part of the State University System of Florida. The university is classified among the Carnegie "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institutions. FIU has 11 colleges and more than 40 centers, facilities, labs, and institutes that offer more than 200 programs of study. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

FIU's intercollegiate sports teams, the FIU Panthers, compete in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I and the Conference USA (C-USA).

Florida International University is a member of the CAEL Build Better Careers program, generously supported by the Truist Foundation.