A Comprehensive Guide for International Students at the University of Maryland
The University of Maryland (UMD) welcomes students from across the globe, fostering a diverse and enriching academic environment. This guide aims to provide prospective and current international students with essential information to navigate the application process, visa requirements, financial responsibilities, and resources available at UMD.
Admission Requirements for International Students
All applicants, including international students, must satisfy the specific admission criteria for their chosen program to be considered for enrollment. These requirements vary by department and degree level, so thorough research is crucial. Official score reports must be received and processed by the Graduate School prior to being considered for admission.
English Language Proficiency
International students requiring visa sponsorship from the Office of International Services (OIS) must demonstrate English proficiency. This is typically verified through standardized tests like the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System). The minimum required scores vary by program, so it is crucial to check the specific requirements for your intended course of study.
However, students whose native language is English are exempt from this requirement.
Applying to the Intensive English Program
It is important to note that applicants eligible for the Intensive English Program will not be considered for the Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) program. This highlights the importance of meeting the direct entry English proficiency requirements for specific graduate programs.
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Visa and I-20 Processes
The visa and I-20 processes are managed entirely by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS). After admission, international students will work with ISSS to obtain the necessary visa documents.
F-1 Visa and Dependents
The F-1 visa is the most common visa type for students pursuing academic studies in the United States. Only the spouse and minor children (under age 21) who accompany the F-1 visa holder to the United States may receive F-2 dependent status.
F-2 Visa Restrictions
It's crucial to understand the restrictions associated with the F-2 dependent visa. The F-2 spouse and children of an F-1 student are not eligible for employment in the United States. The F-2 child may only engage in full-time study if the study is in an elementary or secondary school (kindergarten through 12th grade). The F-2 spouse is permitted to study part-time.
Adding Dependents to Your SEVIS Record
To bring dependents to the U.S. on an F-2 visa, the F-1 student must complete the "Add SEVIS Dependent e-form" in Sunapsis. This process requires providing documentation and financial proof.
Required Documentation for Dependents
When adding dependents, you will need to provide:
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- Proof of the relationship to the F-1 visa holder, such as a copy of a birth certificate or marriage license.
Financial Responsibility
International students requiring visa sponsorship must demonstrate they have sufficient funding to cover the cost of their program and living expenses while studying in Baltimore. This ensures that students can focus on their studies without facing undue financial hardship.
Proving Financial Resources
Financial responsibility can be proven through various methods. If using personal or family funds, a bank statement from within the past six months must be provided. The statement must clearly show the account holder's name, the account balance, and the date.
Financial Requirements for Dependents
The expenses of a married student are considerably more than those of a single student. Beyond covering their own expenses, married students must demonstrate an additional $12,600 per year for a dependent spouse and an additional $8,100 per year for each dependent child. In summary, you need to show funds for a spouse and/or $8,100 in funds for each child.
Health Insurance Requirements
Health insurance is mandatory for all UMB students. Students must demonstrate they have coverage equivalent to UMB's minimum requirements or purchase the policy offered by UMB to all students. Detailed information about UMB's health insurance requirements and available plans can be found on the university's website.
Resources and Support
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is a valuable resource of information and assistance for prospective and current international students. ISSS provides guidance on a wide range of topics, including visa regulations, immigration procedures, cultural adjustment, and academic support.
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Important Reminders
- When applying, be sure to provide a foreign street address-not a P.O. Box-on your application. This is important for mailing official documents.
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