Florida International University just got a boost in its push to open a new medical school: A $5-million donation from the North Dade Medical Foundation.

FIU officials on Wednesday announced the gift, which is eligible for a $5-million state match and will be used for scholarships and for endowed professor's chairs.

"This endowment provides an avenue to attract the best students from South Florida to our College of Medicine," said FIU President Mitch Maidique.

The scholarships will be merit-based, for Miami-Dade and Broward County residents, starting in fall 2009 when the college is expected to welcome its inaugural class.

FIU and the University of Central Florida got state approval last year to open new medical schools.