For Prospective Students

We understand that the transition to college life can be full of questions and unknowns. Below are some common questions you may have before you arrive at the University of Miami.

For more information or additional questions, please contact the LGBTQ Student Center at 305-284-3935.

• As a prospective student, do I need to identify with being male or female on the admissions application?

  Yes, since the University of Miami is a member of the Common Application, it is mandated by federal guidelines to collect data on the legal sex of all applicants (as stated on one’s birth certificate). If you wish to provide more details regarding your sex or gender identity, applicants are welcome to do so in the additional information section of their application.

• How welcoming and affirming is the U?

  The U is very welcoming and affirming. It received 4 out of 5 stars in the national listing of LGBTQ-Friendly Colleges and Universities. The Campus Pride Index score is an overall indicator of institutional commitment to LGBTQ-inclusive policies, programs and practices. For over a decade, Campus Pride continues to be the most trusted, reliable educational resource for students and families when it comes to finding the best campuses for LGBTQ inclusion and safety.

• Does the U offer gender inclusive housing?

  Yes, the university currently offers gender-inclusive housing. Gender-inclusive housing is an environment where student housing is not restricted to traditional limitations of the gender binary (male/female). Instead, gender-inclusive housing is based on the notion that more than two genders exist. This is a departmental and University commitment to establish more inclusiveness and room for diverse identities. Gender-inclusive housing means that students from all gender identities and expressions may choose to live together. For more information, contact the Department of Housing and Residential Life.

• Are LGBTQIA+ individuals a protected class at the University?

  It is the policy of the University of Miami that no person within the jurisdiction thereof shall, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any  other protected factor be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination or harassment (including all forms of sexual harassment and sexual violence) under any program or activity of the University, regardless of whether such program or activity occurs on-campus or off-campus

• What services are offered on campus for LGBTQ+ Students?

  The U was the first to offer a standalone LGBTQ Student Center in a South Florida college or university.  The LGBTQ Student Center strives to foster the inclusion and support of all students, staff, faculty, alumni, and friends. It is inclusive of all genders, orientations, expressions, and identities. The Center focuses on education, outreach, programming, engagement, empowerment, and advocacy for increased visibility in the university community. The Center is the H.E.A.R.T. of the UM LGBTQ+ community, providing a Holistic approach to Educating and creating Awareness and Advocacy on issues that impact the LGBTQIA+ community. Using Restorative practices, it strives to Transform, inspire and strengthen the community. The Center intentionally creates opportunities for student engagement and leadership development. The Center offers a trans friendly resource guide for incoming transgender students.

• Does the U offer an LGBTQ+ or Queer studies major?

  The U offers the LGBTQ Studies minor and is designed to allow students to explore sexuality and sexual minorities from a variety of perspectives. The minor will provide students with an introduction to a broad array of LGBTQ issues, including visual and performing arts, literature, languages, history, social science, various theories, public policy and the law, families and other types of intimate relationships, crime, popular culture, and LGBTQ identities and communities. For more information, please contact the College of Arts and Sciences, Gender and Sexuality Studies (GSS) program at 305-284-6116 or visit their website.

• Are there LGBTQ+ student organizations at the U?

  There are currently 5-6 LGBTQ student organizations on campus. Additionally, there is the network of LGBTQ+ faculty and staff who can serve as role models, mentors, and the LGBT Cane Alumni Network for our Alumni. Plenty of ways to be involved! 

• Are there gender-inclusive restrooms on campus?

  The University is dedicated to providing people of all gender expressions with access to safe, comfortable environments when they need to use the restroom. There are gender-inclusive restrooms located on both the Coral Gables and RSMAS campuses. Click here for a full map of locations, or stop by our office for more information.

• Where can I change my name and gender marker?

  Students who need to make an update to their name or their gender recorded in Canelink can request this change in writing to the Office of the University Registrar. Please note that appropriate documentation must be provided. For more information, please contact the University Registrar, located in the University Center, Room 1230.

• Why do Pronouns matter?

  For many genderqueer, transgender, and other gender-variant people, pronouns can be a source of frustration, anxiety, and pain. Being referred to by the wrong pronoun, particularly by family and friends, can make one feel as though people do not respect their gender. There are additional options when it comes to gender-neutral pronouns. Within the transgender and genderqueer communities, there are two particular sets of gender-neutral pronouns: ze/hir and they/them/their, used similarly to she/her & he/him/his. Know that it is okay to share your pronouns and ask others what pronouns they use.