Requirements for Admitted International Students

Visas Foreign Nationals (excluding students from Canada and Mexico*)

To enter the country, all students must have a passport and a temporary visa from a United States Embassy or Consulate, both of which must be obtained before departure from a home country. Information and resources for the two most common types of student visas can be found below.

 

F-1 Student Visa

This visa is used by most students but is only available to students enrolled full-time in an academic program for the entire academic year.
 
The basic steps of the application process are as follows:
  1. Once admitted, confirm your intent to enroll (see instructions in acceptance email and/or letter)
  2. Provide U-M with proof of full financial support (see Proof of Support section below)
  3. Complete the Form I-20 sent to you by U-M (once they receive proof of financial support)
  4. Take the Form I-20 to a United States Embassy or Consular Official to apply for the visa.
For more detailed information, visit the U-M International Center website.

 

J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa (Student Category)

This visa is designed for certain non-privately sponsored students, such as those whose funding comes from their government; it is only available to students enrolled full-time in an academic program for the entire academic year.
 
The basic steps of obtaining this visa are:
  1. Once admitted, confirm your intent to enroll (see instructions in acceptance email and/or letter)
  2. Complete the Form DS-2019 send to you by U-M
  3. Take the Form DS-2019 to a United States Embassy or Consular Official to apply for the visa.
For more detailed information, visit the U-M International Center website.

 

*Information for Students from Canada and Mexico

Document requirements for Canadian and Mexican students traveling to the United States for academic study are different from those for students from all other countries. Consult the U-M International Center website for details.

 

Proof of Financial Support

Admitted international students must prove that they have the ability to pay for both education and living expenses while studying at the University of Michigan.
 
For more information on completing this requirement:

 

U-M International Center

This campus unit provides ample resources, information, referrals, and advice to newly admitted international student on important matters such as traveling to the University of Michigan. We encourage all international students to visit the U-M International Center website for more information.