International Student Cost Calculator
Calculate total U.S. university expenses for international students on F-1 visas, including non-resident tuition, SEVIS onboarding, health insurance, and I-20 funding.
Direct University Costs
Living, Health & Travel Expenses
Calculation Results
I-20 Minimum Financial Requirement Formula
I-20 Proof of Funds = (Non-Resident Tuition + Surcharge + Housing/Dining + Insurance + Flights + Living) × 1.05 + SEVIS Onboarding- U.S. universities require international applicants to prove 100% liquid funding for the full first year before issuing Form I-20.
- Non-resident tuition surcharge significantly increases base university billing rates.
- Mandatory university health insurance is non-negotiable for F-1 visa compliance ($2,000–$3,500/year).
- Adds SEVIS I-901 fee ($350) and DS-160 visa processing ($185).
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
- Direct Academic Charges: $31,000 + $1,500 = $32,500.
- Living & Personal Expenses: $13,500 + $2,600 + $2,200 + $2,800 = $21,100.
- Total Annual Cost of Attendance: $32,500 + $21,100 = $53,600.
- Calculate I-20 Minimum Financial Guarantee (Annual COA × 1.05 + $535): $53,600 × 1.05 + $535 = $56,815.
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter out-of-state/non-resident international tuition and institutional surcharges.
- 2Input campus room and board fees plus mandatory international insurance.
- 3Include annual international travel home and personal allowances.
Assumptions & Limitations
- International students on F-1 visas cannot work off-campus during their first academic year without USCIS authorization.
- All liquid proof of funds must be demonstrated in official English-language bank statements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the I-20 proof of funds requirement?
Under U.S. federal immigration law, universities cannot issue Form I-20 until the student submits verified bank statements proving they have sufficient funds to cover all tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one full academic year.
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