International students are welcome at the Smith School. All questions about international student issues (including visa and reporting requirements) should be directed to the University of Maryland International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) office.
Orientation
Smith School Business Master's students attending the University on a visa are required to complete the International Student Online Orientation Fall 2023 (access begins June 1; see ISSS New International Student Checklist).
I-20 Forms
International students who require a visa will need to be cleared with the International Student & Scholar Services office prior to being issued an I-20 form. The majority of clearance issues are related to providing proof of available funds to cover educational expenses. Students who have not submitted a Certificate of Finance form and the appropriate supporting documentation (bank statements or sponsor letters) should do so immediately. Contact information for ISSS staff is posted at http://globalmaryland.umd.edu/offices/international-students-scholar-services/about-isss.
Social Security Number
For information about a social security number, visit http://globalmaryland.umd.edu/offices/international-students-scholar-services/social-security.
English Language Instruction Resources
- The UMD Maryland English Institute offers English language instruction to University of Maryland students.
- The English Conversation Partners at the University of Maryland aims to bring students and community members from diverse cultures together through authentic language learning/teaching and cultural exchange and offer a 10-week program for participants to practice oral English.
Bank Accounts
Securing a bank account is one of the first tasks to accomplish when arriving to Maryland. To open an account, students need a University of Maryland letter of admission (with student ID number on it), visa document, passport, and some amount of money. There are different types of accounts (checking, saving, money market) with different fees, and students should consider which type of account will best meet their needs. Bank staff can provide details in regard to all types of accounts available through their institution. Students should read banking materials thoroughly and ask questions of the banking representative BEFORE opening an account. There are several banks in the College Park area. Many local banks will allow international students to open a checking account with their University of Maryland student ID number, I-20, and Student ID. Students who work for the University of Maryland can open an account at the State Employees Credit Union (SECU); often the fees at the SECU are more reasonable than those at other banking agencies.
Credit Cards
Students who plan to stay in the US after obtaining a degree may want to begin to build their credit history by opening a credit card. For some transactions, the only form of payment merchants will accept is a credit card. In general, students can apply for a secured credit card at their bank or from one of the credit card companies, such as American Express or Discover. Some cards will charge high interest rates (up to 21% annually) for purchases not paid off monthly. Any individual without a credit history in the US may have to start out with a credit card which has a higher interest rate. After credit has been established and bills have been paid regularly, students can investigate obtaining a card with lower rates.