Professional Resources

Updated September 16, 2024 

Many colleges and universities around the world may provide institutional financial aid to international students. Colleges and universities may ask applicants to complete a financial aid application and to submit documentation for colleges and universities to understand students and their families’ financial situation in the context of their local economy. It is essential that applicants are in touch with colleges and universities directly regarding their financial aid and scholarship requirements.

International ACAC has created the International Student Application for Financial Assistance (ISAFA), an application form that colleges and universities may use to determine an applicant’s eligibility for institutional financial assistance. 

There is no cost associated with using this form; however, it is the applicants’ responsibility to confirm whether or not the institution(s) to which they are applying will accept this form in lieu of their required financial aid application and to submit all necessary documentation by the appropriate deadlines. Please contact colleges and universities directly to inquire as to their eligibility requirements for international applicants seeking financial assistance.

Additionally, International ACAC has created International Student Financial Certification Document. 

The purpose of this form is to help colleges and universities obtain complete and accurate information about the funds available to international applicants who want to study in the United States. Strict government regulations, rising education costs, and economic conditions have made verifying the financial resources of international applicants essential. Institutions do not have the option of deciding whether to verify the financial resources of their international applicants; financial verification must be made prior to institutional issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019).

This form is designed to standardize financial information provided by applicants to colleges, universities and U.S. consuls. By completing this form and returning it to the college or university requiring it, an applicant, if admitted, may obtain that college’s authorization and issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019).

Commitment to Access

Please note that International ACAC does not provide financial assistance to international students. We hope that providing these free forms, though, helps to reduce barriers for international students seeking institutional financial assistance from colleges and universities. 

We encourage students, families, and their counselors to contact the financial aid offices directly at the colleges and universities to which they are applying with questions about completing the ISAFA and applying for financial aid, as policies and procedures vary by institution. 

Once completed and if a college or university has confirmed they are willing to accept these forms, applicants should send their forms to the colleges and universities directly.