Language Requirement In addition to meeting the admission requirements outlined in the previous sections, international students must have an outstanding command of the English language in order to enroll at the University. The University does not have a program of intensive English language study; in general, it does not conduct classes and exams in languages other than English; and it does not accept papers submitted in a non-English language. For this reason, applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate their English proficiency on the application for admission by submitting an acceptable score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). This score may not be more than two years old. Most admitted students attain at least 600 on the paper exam or 250 on the computer exam. The TOEFL exam is required of all applicants if the language first learned and spoken in the home is not English. This is true regardless of the number of years of instruction in English or if English is the "official" language of the applicant's home country.

Visa Information The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) has authorized the University of Virginia to issue visa documents appropriate for the F-1 (student) and J-1 (exchange visitor) non-immigrant status. Following academic admission to a University degree program, the Office of International Student and Scholar Programs reviews the language, financial, and visa qualifications of the applicant. If all documentation is in order, a "Certificate of Eligibility" (I-20 or IAP-66) is issued to the prospective student. In order to request a visa to apply for entry into the United States as a student, this document must be submitted to a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, along with a passport and other indications of purpose while in the United States. The University does not issue a Certificate of Eligibility for part-time study, English language study, or continuing and professional studies courses.

Tuition/Fees Non-immigrant students pay the out-of-state full tuition rate (estimated at $18,000 for the 2001-2002 academic year).

Living Expenses The estimated cost for housing, food, books and supplies, and health and personal items is $750 per month for a single student. This does not include travel expenses to and from the United States, tourist excursions, furniture, or luxury items, such as automobiles and computer equipment. Basic expenses for the support of dependents (husband/wife/children) living in Charlottesville are additional.

Financial Certification Eligibility for a student or exchange visitor visa requires that the applicant demonstrate sufficient financial resources for a full course of study. The minimum required by the University of Virginia is $25,500 for 2001-2002. An additional $6,000 for spouse and $3,000 for each child is necessary if students wish to bring dependents to Charlottesville. The Office of International Student and Scholar Programs requires an acceptable financial guarantee prior to issuing the "Certificate of Eligibility." While the established minimum is considered sufficient for a basic, comfortable existence, it may not be adequate to maintain the lifestyle to which a student is accustomed.

Financial Assistance Financial awards are not furnished to undergraduates, and international students cannot accept part time employment off campus during the first year of study. If students must have full financial support to study abroad, they should investigate the possibility of awards offered through home governments, international foundations, and other sources. U.S.I.S. libraries and bi-national commissions in various countries can sometimes offer suggestions. Graduate students are eligible for research and teaching assistantships, as well as meritorious fellowships, through their departments. These awards are competitive.

Transfer of Funds The transfer of funds from the student's home country to the United States may be governed by restrictions. The applicant must be fully informed of the local regulations and process for transfer. Since there may be a considerable delay in the process of transfer, early planning is vital. University expenses must be paid at the beginning of each semester. To avoid unnecessary problems, students are advised to bring sufficient funds with them to pay for tuition, housing, and medical insurance on arrival. This may amount to several thousand dollars and should be in the form of traveler's or cashier's checks in U.S. currency. Students must also open an account with a local bank in Charlottesville in order to accept transferred funds from home.

Employment The University of Virginia cannot admit an international student who is unable to show evidence of adequate financial support. The Immigration and Naturalization Service of the U.S. government restricts the employment of non-immigrant students and scholars. Work without prior INS authorization is prohibited and may carry severe penalties. F-2 dependents are neither eligible to request permission to work nor to accept employment of any kind.

Family Considerations Due to the high cost of living in Charlottesville, students wishing to bring their dependent families must give thorough consideration to the added expense. Because dependents are not generally permitted to accept employment, students may find that they cannot support a family while studying at the University. In many cases, students must be prepared to leave their families at home.

Health Care and Insurance Medical care in the United States is very expensive and paid for privately. To protect against a possible medical debt arising from the need for emergency or sustained medical treatment, all students are required to purchase a basic accident and sickness hospitalization insurance plan. The yearly cost for a single student is about $800 and does not cover regular eye and dental care or routine physical examinations and office visits. Family coverage is more expensive but is strongly recommended. Insurance may be purchased either in Charlottesville or in the student's home country.

English As A Second Language (ESL) Programs The University of Virginia does not have an intensive English program for non-native speakers. However, non-credit supplementary courses in advanced writing and oral work are offered to assist students who are registered full-time in University programs and who want additional help with their English. Some international students may be required to attend these courses in addition to their regular classes. Further information may be obtained by contacting Professor Marion Ross, Director of Programs in English as a Second Language, Brooks Hall, P.O. Box 9024, Charlottesville, VA 22906-9024.