According to US immigration regulations, you must prove that you have sufficient funding to cover all program costs in order to study in the United States. You may also be asked to show proof of funding at your visa interview or the port of entry, so it is important to keep original copies. Proof of funding can come from multiple sources, as long as supporting documents from each source show a total amount greater than or equal to the minimum required program cost. Copies of the following supporting documents are accepted as proof of funding:

1. Personal Funds (the student will pay)

  • Bank Letter or Bank Statement to show that the student has sufficient funds
    • An original copy (usually this document is in your native language) AND a certified English translation
    • On official bank letterhead OR statement must include official bank logo/stamp/address
    • Dated within the last six months
    • Full name of account holder (must match student’s name provided on application)
    • Amount of money in account
    • Type of currency (USD preferred)
    • Please note: We only require bank statement summaries (MELP does NOT need copies of transaction history)

2. Sponsor Funds (someone other than the student will pay)

AND

  • Bank Letter or Bank Statement to show that the sponsor has sufficient funds
    • An original copy (usually this document is in your native language) AND a certified English translation
    • On official bank letterhead OR statement must include official bank logo/stamp/address
    • Dated within the last six months
    • Full name of account holder (must match sponsor’s name provided on application and Sponsor Commitment Form)
    • Amount of money in account
    • Type of currency (USD preferred)
    • Please note: We only require bank statement summaries (MELP does NOT need copies of transaction history)

3. Scholarship Funds (the student’s home country government or employer will pay)

  • Letter of Support/Financial Guarantee to authorize the University of Minnesota to send a bill directly to the student’s scholarship instead of the student
    • An original copy (usually this document is in your native language) AND a certified English translation
    • On official letterhead OR statement must include official logo/stamp/address
    • Dated within the last six months
    • Full name of scholarship (must match scholarship’s name provided on application)
    • Full name of student (must match student’s name provided on application)
    • Length of time for which the funding is granted
    • What is included (example: tuition, fees, health insurance, dependents) AND any limitations
    • The degree/major must specifically state “ESL” at the University of Minnesota
    • Name and address for scholarship contact person (required for billing)
    • Please note: A Financial Guarantee “For Admission Purposes Only” is accepted as proof of funding; however, an official letter will be required upon arrival