IS

What is "Proof of Financial Support"?

• USCIS requires that you document sufficient funding to meet your educational and living expenses at least for the first year of study and credible evidence of the source of funds for the remainder of your studies.

• These funds may come from any dependable source(s), including scholarships, fellowships, sponsoring agencies, personal funds and funds from your family.

When do I need to provide proof of support?

You will be required to provide verification of financial support whenever you receive a new Form I-20 for the following reasons, providing that your last proof of finances is more than three months old:

• Change of sponsor
• Change of status
• Addition or deletion of dependent(s)
• Extension of program of study
• Initial entry
• Significant change in school expenses

How much money do I need to document?

The required minimum amount to be documented is the estimate of school expenses for one academic year (eight months); it is listed as Item 7 of your Form I-20.

How do I provide proof of or document my financial support?

• Obtain copies of documents showing the assets of you and your sponsor which equal the minimum required amount. These might include any of the following:
  • Bank records
  • Tax records
  • Stock certificates and evidence of the worth of the stock
  • Certifications for scholarships, fellowships, assistantships or other on-campus employment
  • Form I-134, Affidavit of Support
• Provide the appropriate documentation to International Services when you make application for the situations listed in "When do I need to provide proof of support?" above.