Opening a Bank Account

To make managing your finances easier while studying in the United States, we strongly encourage you to open a U.S. bank account soon after your arrival. If possible, choose a bank that has international banking services.

Having a U.S. bank account allows you to:

• Receive funds from your home country more quickly and securely
• Pay university expenses and everyday living costs more conveniently
• Reduce delays associated with international transactions

If you need to transfer money to the United States before opening a bank account, some banks may allow you to receive funds through other services; however, additional fees may apply. Be sure to provide complete and accurate information when arranging a transfer, including:

• Your full legal name (as shown on your passport)
• Your passport number (if required by the sending institution)
• Your expected arrival date in the United States

When collecting transferred funds, you will typically be required to present valid identification.

Please note that processing times and fees for international wire transfers can vary significantly by bank. Banks with international banking services generally process transfers more efficiently, while institutions without these services may experience longer delays and higher transaction fees.

Before selecting a bank, be sure to ask the following questions:

• What fees are charged for receiving or sending international wire transfers?
• Is there a minimum balance requirement?
• Will I be charged a fee if my balance falls below the minimum?
• Does the account earn interest?
• Are there monthly maintenance or service fees?
• Are there branch locations or ATM machines conveniently located near campus and your residence?
• Does the bank offer online and mobile banking services?
• How long do international wire transfers typically take to process?

Most banks will require the following documents to open an account:

• Spartan ID card
• Form I-20 or DS-2019
• Passport
• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
• 2 documents that show Proof of local address (required by some banks). If you live on-campus, you can submit a request via the ISSS portal called Official Letter, and your International student and scholar advisor can assist you with this. 

You may be asked to provide a Social Security Number (SSN); however, an SSN is generally not required to open a bank account.

Because requirements can vary by financial institution, we recommend contacting the bank directly or visiting a branch to confirm the documents needed before opening your account.

Payment of Tuition, Fees, Housing and Meal Plans

To remain enrolled in your classes, all charges for tuition and fees, residence hall housing, and meal plans must be paid to the Bursar’s Office by the end of the official registration period. Students who have not satisfied their financial obligations by this deadline may have their classes cancelled.

If you are enrolled in the University's Tuition Payment Plan, your account must remain current and all scheduled payments must be made on time. Here is some more information about payment method options.

Accepted Payment Methods

Payments may be made using:

• U.S. bank checks or drafts
• Wire transfers
• Visa or MasterCard
• Traveler’s Checks

Please note that payments made by check, draft, or wire transfer must be in U.S. dollars (USD) and drawn on a U.S. bank whenever applicable.

Important Information for International Students

If you have not yet established a U.S. bank account, credit card payments (Visa or MasterCard) and Traveler’s Checks are available payment options.

Please allow sufficient time for your payment to be processed:

• Checks and bank drafts: up to 2–4 weeks to clear
• Wire transfers: up to 2–4 weeks for confirmation and posting to your student account

Because payment processing can take time, we recommend keeping separate funds available for your university expenses and personal expenses, especially if you are approaching a payment deadline.

Additional Fees

Students are responsible for any fees, service charges, or bank transaction costs associated with international or foreign bank payments that may be incurred by the University.

For questions regarding payment options, deadlines, or your student account, please contact the Bursar’s Office.

Initial Expenses

When preparing for your arrival in the United States, it is important to budget for additional start-up expenses during your first month, as these costs are often higher than your typical monthly living expenses.

In addition to tuition, fees, housing, and meal costs, you should plan for expenses such as:

• Textbooks, course materials, and school supplies
• Bedding, towels, and other personal items
• Clothing appropriate for the local climate
• Cell phone service and transportation costs
• Kitchen supplies and groceries if you will be preparing your own meals

Students living off campus should be prepared for several one-time move-in costs, which may include:

• A security deposit
• First month's rent
• Utility deposits or connection fees
• Furniture and household items, if the residence is unfurnished

Because many of these expenses are due shortly after arrival, we recommend bringing or arranging access to sufficient funds to cover your first month's living expenses and move-in costs. Planning ahead can help make your transition to life in the United States smoother and less stressful.