Estimated Expenses and Proof of Funding
In order to be issued a DS-2019, J-1 Scholars must demonstrate that they have $3000 in liquid funds available per month for the entire duration of their J-1 program. If bringing dependent family members, J-1 scholars will need to show an additional $1000 per month for spouse and $700 per month for each child.
Even if you believe that your actual expenses will be lower, we are still required to collect proof that you have funding available to cover the full estimated expenses for the duration of your program.
Institutional Funds (from your Employer or the government)
Please provide a recently dated award or grant letter (in English) with the total amount available to you and your name.
Personal Funds
Please provide a copy of your bank statement (in English) showing the full amount of funds currently available to you for your program.
Bank Letters / Statements
The simplest way to demonstrate proof of personal funds is to get a letter from your bank. Here are the requirements for the bank letter:
- Must be in English.
- Must have a letter issue date that is no more than 3 months before we get your DS-2019 request.
- Must include a unique account number (partial numbers, such as XXXXXX123, are acceptable).
- Must include the account holder's name.
- Must confirm the specific amount in the account(s) in dollars (USD) or other currency. Note: If a USD amount is not specified,
- Global Engagement will determine the currency conversion amount to USD.
- Must confirm the type of account (checking, savings etc) or a confirmation that the funds are unrestricted and can be withdrawn at any time.
Examples of Documents We Will Accept
- We will accept any documentation showing liquid assets including:
- Savings accounts without a maturity/expiry date
- Checking accounts
- Fixed deposit accounts
- Certificates of deposit with a maturity/expiry date prior to the start date of your academic program
Examples of Documents We Will Not Accept
- Certificates of deposit with a maturity/expiry date that is after the start date of your program or a statement that the funds cannot be withdrawn on a date that is prior to the start date of your program.
- Stock, equity, mutual fund accounts, or cryptocurrency
- Retirement accounts, such as PPF's, IRA's and 401K's
- Loans