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Financial Planning Resources

We know that fiscal planning for post-secondary education in the United States as a non US-citizen can be challenging since need-based U.S. federal financial aid is not available to students on F, J and several other non-immigrant visas.

We therefore encourage you and your family to develop a long-term realistic financial plan that will sustain you for up to four years as an undergraduate student and allow you to focus on your academic and professional success, and personal growth.

Here are some ideas and resources for you to consider:

  • Will you be taking IB higher level, AP, British A level or CAPE Unit Two examinations? If yes, successful results may earn you advanced standing and Â鶹ÊÓƵ credits, and save you time and money. Visit our exam credit page for our 2023Ìýpolicies on advanced standing for specific examination subjects (2024Ìýpolicies are subject to revision).
  • If you are admitted and decide to attend Â鶹ÊÓƵ, you can set up an installment plan through Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Student Accounts Office to pay up to 10 payments per year instead of paying all at once. For further information, please visit our student accounts page.
  • After the first two semesters at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, and with the approval of your academic adviser, you may wish to think about studying during the summers to accumulate credits and perhaps graduate in 3 1/2 years instead of four years.
  • is one of the nation's largest scholarship databases. Among the scholarships listed, Cappex does includeÌýexternal scholarship resources that do not require U.S. citizenship. Students can create to see personalized matches of eligible scholarships, as well as information on how to apply.ÌýPlease review scholarship eligibility requirements and deadline dates carefully to see if you qualify for one or more funding opportunities.

Â鶹ÊÓƵ also offers options for on-campus employment. ÌýSeveral students apply to become a resident assistant (RA) in the residence halls after their first year. RA positions provide selected students with a residential space at no cost in addition to a monthly stipend that students may use to pay for incidentals. Also, several campus offices hire student staff as early as their first year. The Â鶹ÊÓƵ Career Center maintains a database of on-campus and community job opportunities. Ìý

  • The is an excellent resource for information about U.S. higher education, pre-departure information, and frequently asked questions.
  • This short video provides budgeting tips and advice specifically
    for international students.
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  • Your education is an investment in your future, and the return on that investment at Â鶹ÊÓƵ is impressive. Find out where an Â鶹ÊÓƵ degree can take you.

We hope the above information is helpful. Please don't hesitate to contact us at intadm@american.edu if you have further questions.

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