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.
| Item | Expense | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SEVIS fee for J-1 Students | $220 | |
| Visa fee for J-1 Students | $245 | As of May 2023 |
| 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 | $30-50 per month | A US cell phone number is required for visa compliance. |
| On-Campus Housing | $5500 | Housing ranges from $4500-6500 for 2023-2024 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 | $1000 per month | Ranges from $900-1300 per month |
| On-Campus Meal Plan | $2,974 | Base level dining plan - does not include Dining Dollars. See available plans here. |
| Off-Campus Food Expenses | $1,600 | Without on-campus meal plan |
| Books/Supplies | $600 | |
| Excursions hosted by UMD | $50-100 | |
| Personal Expenses (local travel and entertainment) |
$1,600 | $100 per week estimate |
| Student Activity Fee | $42.50 | This fee is the only mandatory fee exchange students must pay. Based on 2023-2024 cost. |
| Mandatory Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) |
$1358 | 2023-2024 rates: Full Year: $2,334 Fall: $978 Spring/Summer: $1,358 |