International Students and Eligible Non-Citizens
Is financial aid available to international students?
Financial aid is available to eligible non-citizens. Generally you are an eligible non-citizen if you meet any of the following criteria:
- U.S. permanent resident with an Alien Registration card (I-551)
- Conditional permanent resident (I -551C)
- Other eligible non-citizen with an Arrival—Departure Record (I-94) from the Department of Homeland Security showing any one of the following designations: “Refugee,” “Asylum Granted,” “Parole” (I-94 confirms paroled for a minimum of one year and status has not expired), or “Cuban—Haitian Entrant”
If you are in the U.S. on an F1 or F2 student visa, a J1 or J2 exchange visitor visa, or a G series visa you are not eligible for federal student aid. If you are an international student who does not meet the eligibility requirements, there are a number of Web sites that you can search for scholarship opportunities. EduPass.org, a Web site created by FinAid.org provides extensive information that will help international students understand what aid may be available. Start with their section on Financial Aid.
Please contact the International Programs Office (413-545-2710) or visit www.umass.edu/ipo for more information.
