money
It is a good idea to exchange currency for U.S. dollars before your departure, but you should not travel with large amounts of cash--there is too much danger of loss or theft. If you anticipate bringing large sums of money to the United States, ask a bank about the safest and most convenient means of carrying or transferring funds. If you make arrangements for funds to be transferred in U.S. dollars to a U.S. bank before you leave home, that money will be available to you when you arrive on campus. Foreign currency is not available in most U.S. cities, and the University and all local businesses accept only U.S. dollars.
When you arrive in the United States , you should have sufficient funds to cover your expenses when you reach Saint Mary’s College. The amount depends, of course, on your travel plans. Once you have decided on your itinerary and estimated expenses, you may wish to purchase traveler's checks in U.S. dollars for the amount of money you need. Traveler's checks, obtained at banks or travel offices, can be cashed by banks and most businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and airports.
It is also advisable to carry a small amount of U.S. cash--at least fifty dollars in paper currency and two or three dollars in coins or "change" for telephones, baggage lockers, bus fares, and tips. The lower denominations of U.S. paper money are: $1, $5, $10, and $20 bills; coins are 1 cent, (penny, $.01), 5 cents (nickel, $.05), 10 cents (dime, $.10), 25 cents (quarter, $.25), 50 cents (half-dollar, $.50) and 1 dollar ($1).
Payment of tuition, fees, and other charges is due prior to registration (when you enroll for classes). Payment may be made by cash, check or credit card (American Express, Discover, Visa or MasterCard only). Questions can be referred to Maggie Rose, mrose@stmarys-ca.edu, Student Billing Manager in the Business Office.
If you cannot make full payment at the time payment is due, you must make special payment arrangements with the Student Billing Manager. If you fail to do so, you will be charged a late fee.
Little if any financial aid from the College is available for international students, therefore, plan on meeting your own educational expenses for the duration of your studies. No long term loan funds are available through the College. All students must therefore bring enough money to cover their expenses. You can work on campus when jobs are available.
Married students who wish to have their families join them should realize their financial burdens. A married couple who can live inexpensively will require at least $5000 more per year than a single student will. Additional funds are necessary for each accompanying child for a minimum standard of living. Visas are not issued to the family of students unless they have sufficient funds for dependents in addition to the amount required for the single student. Many students find it best to delay bringing their families until they have found housing and settled in the community.
