Tuition
GVSU is one of the most affordable universities in Michigan, especially for our international students. Tuition is based on the classification of the student and the course: undergraduate lower or upper division, resident, or non-resident; and graduate by program. Undergraduate International Students receive a scholarship so that they pay the same rate as a resident student and not the higher, non-Michigan Resident rate. All graduate students, regardless of residency, pay the same tuition rate.
The link below will show you the current rates. Tuition rates are set in July for the upcoming academic year. If you are planning ahead for the next school year, you can anticipate the rates to increase by roughly 3%.
Payment Deadlines
New International Students
Grand Valley State University international students need to pay their student account balance in full by the deadline or sign up for a deferment plan by the deadline. Plan ahead so this is done no later than 5:00 p.m. E.S.T./E.D.T, the Friday before classes begin.
Please note, this deadline is different to the deadlines published online for all other students and different to the automated emails you will receive from Student Accounts. Please disregard those deadlines. GVSU's system automatically drop students from classes who do not pay by the deadline.
You may view your Grand Valley Student Account through myBanner. You can also review the detailed guidance provided on our Get Ready page under the Student Accounts section.
Returning Students
Students who have completed at least one semester at GVSU are considered "returning". Returning International Students must pay by the official deadline dates found on the website. Returning International Students are eligible for payment plans.
How to Pay
GVSU does not accept direct wire deposits. Acceptable payment methods include: credit card, debit card, demand draft, travelers checks, or Western Union Business Solutions. Details on payment via Western Union Business Solutions are outlined below.
International students on an F-1 or J-1 visa are required by law to provide evidence of financial support sufficient to cover the cost of tuition and living expenses for their degree program. The expectation is that the student will be financially capable of paying tuition and living in the U.S. on the funds demonstrated.
Western Union Business Solutions
Grand Valley State University has partnered with Western Union Business Solutions to provide international students and their families a fast, easy, and affordable way to pay education costs online and in their own currency. This service allows you to pay locally from your home bank, saving you money on exchange rates and bank fees. Funds are credited directly to your bursar account in dollars in as few as two (2) business days.
What are the benefits?
- Use your own currency! Your full payment amount will still be received in U.S. dollars.
- Stop worrying about exchange rates. The rate is held in for 72 hours, so the full amount arrives every time.
- The exchange rate is very competitive when compared to your financial institution’s retail rates.
- There are NO transaction charges from Western Union Business Solutions or Grand Valley State University.
- Save on bank and credit card fees and use an affordable local bank transfer.
- Gain payment peace of mind knowing that your funds will arrive in full, on time and without deductions or delays.
Learn More:
- International Payment Instructions
- Currency Option List
- China Payment Options - English or Chinese
- Korea Payment Options
2023-2024 First Semester Budget Planner
There are lots of expenses to consider from tuition and housing to books and orientation fee. Use the guide linked below to plan out your expenses for your first semester: