Estimated Semester Expenses for Incoming Exchange Students
The expenses listed are totals for one semester unless otherwise noted.
Please note that the budget below is an estimate and will not necessarily apply to all students.
Estimated for the 2026-2027 Academic Year
| Item | Expense | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SEVIS fee for J-1 Students | $220 | SEVIS form I-901 Fee |
| Visa fee for J-1 Students | $185 | Nonimmigrant visa application processing fee, as outlined by the Department of State |
| Startup/Arrival Costs | $250-300 | Covers transportation to campus, any meals before the dining halls open, furniture or other basic necessities for dormitories or residences. |
| US Cell Phone or SIM card | $40-60 per month | A US cell phone number is required for J-1 visa compliance. |
| On-Campus Housing | $5500 | Housing ranges from $4500-6750 for 2026-2027 based on residence options. The estimate includes the application fee, early move-in fees for orientation (around $40/night for 3-5 nights) and optional break housing during Thanksgiving break, Winter break, and Spring break, when the campus is closed. See the accommodation calendar here: ResLife: Important Dates. |
| Off-Campus Housing | $1500 per month | Ranges from $1000-2000 per month |
| On-Campus Meal Plan | $3,410 | Base level dining plan as of Fall 2026 - does not include Dining Dollars. See available plans here. |
| Off-Campus Food Expenses | $2,500 | Without on-campus meal plan |
| Books/Supplies | $625 | |
| Excursions hosted by UMD | $50-100 | Exchange or UMD club events |
| Personal Expenses (local travel and entertainment) |
$1,600 | $100 per week estimate |
| Student Activity Fee | $51.50 (undergrad) $26 (graduate) |
This fee is the only mandatory fee exchange students must pay. Based on 2026-2027 cost. |
| Mandatory Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) |
$1,707 | 2026-2027 rates: Full Year: $2,939 Fall: $1,232 Spring/Summer: $1,707 (higher cost as the coverage period is longer) |