Financial Considerations

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and James Madison University require all F-1 and J-1 applicants to provide a "Confirmation of Financial Resources" certifying your ability to finance your study in the United States. The bank statement requested on the confirmation requires a bank official's signature, or the bank may submit an official letter certifying the applicant's or sponsor's present funds available for all costs of the first year's education. In addition, you must verify that similar or additional funds will be available in future years, barring unforeseen circumstances.

YOU MUST HAVE THIS FINANCIAL STATEMENT ALONG WITH YOUR PASSPORT AND I-20 OR DS-2019 WHEN YOU ARRIVE IN THE UNITED STATES.

U.S. immigration officials sometimes request your financial documents at the port of entry. Please be prepared to show proof of your financial support upon arrival in the United States.