International Students

Eligibility

A student must be a citizen or eligible noncitizen to receive federal, state and/or institutional aid at UM.  Eligible statuses are:

• U.S. citizen or national
• U.S. permanent resident
• Citizens of certain pacific islands (the Freely Associated States)
• Other eligible noncitizens

A student whose citizenship status is one of the following is not eligible for any federal, state and/or institutional aid at UM:

• F1 or F2 Visa (student)
• J1 or J2 Visa (exchange visitor)
• G Series Visas (international organization)
• Noncitizens with only an I-688A or I-688B
• Noncitizens with only an I-171 or I-464 (Notice of Approval to Apply for Permanent Residence)
• Noncitizens with only an I-797 (Family Unity Status)

International students who are ineligible may wish to explore other potential sources of financial aid. Below is a list of possible sources of assistance.  Please note:  This list in no way guarantees that aid may be available, but is intended to provide students with possible sources of assistance.

• Universities in your home country
• National Association of International Educators (NASFA)
• Your embassy
• The Agency for International Development  (USAID)
• The United States Information Agency
• Private U.S. and international organizations, foundations and agencies
• Rotary Clubs in your home country
• eduPASS
• Graduate assistantships through your school

Loan Options for Noneligible Students

Many lending institutions offer private/alternative loans to students who meet certain criteria. Student borrowers must be able to provide a loan co-signer who is credit-worthy and who is a United States citizen or permanent resident. Private/alternative loans are obtained by applying directly to a private lender; loans must be certified by UM's Student Financial Assistance & Education Office.  Students who are applying for a private/alternative loan are encouraged to speak with their Financial Assistance Counselor if they have questions about the application process.

Private/alternative Lenders

Many private lenders offer loans for students who do not qualify for Federal student aid resources. Students are encouraged to "shop around" when considering loans and to compare which loan(s) may best suit their needs.