In order to receive scholarships/financial aid, you must:

• File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with the College Scholarship Service. Ask your high school counselor or college financial aid office for this form. You may also obtain one from the University's Office of Financial Assistance Services, phone (305) 284-5212.
  NOTE: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is required for all students seeking music scholarships and financial aid. To receive priority consideration, be sure to file the form with the College Scholarship Service by February 15. International students who do not have green card status are exempt from filing the FAFSA.
• Complete your music audition. Music scholarships, available only to full-time music majors, are both talent- and need-based and are given for performance ability. Academic achievement is taken into consideration. Music scholarships are applied only to tuition. Academically qualified students not awarded a music scholarship will be considered for an academic scholarship.
• Complete the application process with the University of Miami by February 1. Scholarships and financial aid are awarded only to those who have been approved for admission to the University. Priority consideration will be given to students whose applications and auditions are completed by March 1.

Students admitted to the Frost School of Music may be considered for the following awards:

• University of Miami Frost School of Music Scholarship
  Range: $2000 - Full Tuition
  Criterion for Consideration: Recommendation by Music Faculty and/or University Academic Scholarship Committee

   

• School of Music Grant
  Range: amounts vary
  Criterion for Consideration: determined by demonstrated financial need

When I received my financial aid package, I noticed an amount was in loans.
While you do not have to apply for these loans, this simply means that you are eligible to receive them. You may be able to save the amount you'll need from summer earnings or other work opportunities.

Where can I seek additional funds to help pay for my college expenses?
Many civic clubs, local community foundations, religious institutions, and music clubs have funds available for students wishing to pursue higher education. Scholarship programs are sometimes available to the dependents of employees of large corporations. Life insurance companies often offer programs to help families save for college funds.

Once I get to campus, can I work to help defray my expenses?
If you qualify for the College Work Study Program, the University will help you obtain a job on campus. In addition, students often help each other obtain performing jobs. While you will not want to neglect your practicing or academic studies, you may have outside performance opportunities, including concerts, recitals, and more.

In short, what is the key to getting financial aid to attend the University of Miami?
Apply early, present a good audition, and file the FAFSA early (by February 15).