Setting up a bank account
Students will set up a bank account with our local credit union (bank) within the first week after they arrive on campus. Parents will be able to wire funds directly into that account once it is established.
Bringing money to the U.S.
If you are bringing large sums of "cash" money with you, remember to declare it at Customs or it will be confiscated. Once on campus, contact our Campus Safety Department and have them place your money into their safe. Have your money labeled and ask them for a receipt with your name, the amount of money you gave them, the date received and their name.
During orientation week students will be taken to local stores to buy bedding, toiletries and snacks so some cash for these items is needed. Books will be purchased after credit union accounts are established so money may be wired for that purpose.
The billing process
Calvin uses two different billing processes. One is for tuition, room & board and the other is for "miscellaneous" expenses like bookstore purchases and parking tickets and class fees.
The tuition bill comes 3 times per semester while the miscellaneous bill comes monthly and is to be paid monthly. Be certain you discuss how you and your parents will manage these payments.
Finding an on-campus job
Any financial assistance you received from Calvin included the expectation that you would earn at least $2,200 of that aid by working on campus. You do not receive that money unless you work for it.
During orientation we will show you how to find an on-campus job. If you do not want to work while at Calvin then plan to bring an additional $2,200 of your own money to insure that you can cover the costs of you first year.