Frequently Asked Questions

Below see a list of the most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not listed here, please email us at africana@fiu.edu or call us at 305-348-6860 anytime Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM EST.

Where can I find information about the Master of Arts in African & African Diaspora Studies Program?

You can find information on our Master of Arts in African & African Diaspora Studies by clicking here.

Where can I find information about the combined programs AADS offers?

Information on the three combined programs we offer can be found here.

Does AADS offer any graduate program other than degree programs?

Yes, AADS offers two graduate certificates: a graduate certificate in African & African Diaspora Studies and a graduate certificate in Afro-Latin American Studies.

Are any of your programs available completely online?

Yes, our Master of Arts in African & African Diaspora Studies can be completed completely online, as well as both of our graduate certificates. The combined programs cannot be completed online at this time.

What are the admissions requirements for the graduate programs?

The admissions requirements for all AADS graduate programs can be found by clicking here. If you are considering or have already started an application, please contact our Program Coordinator to discuss your application file. Our Program Coordinator can be reached at 305-348-8455, or via email at africana@fiu.edu.

What is the cost of attendance at FIU for graduate students?

The cost of attendance for FIU graduate students can be found by clicking here.

Are there any funding opportunities available for students that are enrolled?

Yes, there are many funding opportunities. AADS offers Graduate Assistantships (GA) every year. GAs are very competitive, and are offered to based on the student's application file. Additionally, there also are fellowships and scholarships available. Please click here to view the funding opportunities.

If I am applying to a combined program, do I have to submit an application to both units?

Persons interested in a combined program must only submit one application: a PhD application to the program they are interested in with a sub-plan in MA in African & African Diaspora Studies. Please send all supporting documents to Graduate Admissions at Florida International University, and both units will have access to all the required documents?

Is the GRE required?

Yes, the GRE is required. We accept GRE scores that were taken five years or less from the date of application. Please note GRE scores must be in the new format. If you have GRE scores in the former format (with scores in the 500 range, please have the score officially converted prior to submission to FIU Graduate Admissions. Thank you.) *Update-Please note, the GRE is currently waived until further notice.

Will my application be reviewed even if it's not complete?

The Graduate Admissions Committee will not review incomplete applications. However, if you are having difficulties submitting all supporting documents by the deadline, please contact our Program Coordinator at africana@fiu.edu or 305-348-8455. In some cases, an extension can be given.

I am having issues with the application. What can I do?

Please contact the Graduate Admissions office for assistance at 305-348-7000, select Graduate Admissions, or via email at gradadm@fiu.edu.

Is there an information session I can attend?

Yes, AADS holds several information sessions every year. If you are interested in attending one, please email africana@fiu.edu or call us at 305-348-8455 to reserve a spot.

Do United States military personnel receive tuition waivers?

Yes, please contact the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs via email at veterans@fiu.edu, or via telephone at 305-348-2838. You can also view their website by clicking here.

How can I apply to the program?

You can apply by clicking here. Then select Masters Application. You will be required to create a login name and password. Your application will be saved, so you can return to it at a later time.

When will applicants be notified of admissions decision?

Admissions decisions typically are sent in March of the year the applicant wishes to begin their studies. However, there are factors that may delay this decision. Applicants will receive updates from the Program Coordinator regarding admission decisions.

Is there a deadline to accept admissions?

Admitted applicants will have until 15 April of the year they wish to begin their studies to accept or reject admissions.

Can I take courses prior to enrollment in a degree program?

Persons can enroll as non-degree seeking students. Please note that funding cannot be given to students who are not enrolled in a degree program. Furthermore, FIU policy limits the amount of credits a student can transfer into a graduate program. Please contact our Program Coordinator for more information.