Banking

We recommend opening a bank account at a local bank after arrival in Northfield. During the International Student Orientation time is set aside to open an account. You can deposit some money in the form of travelers' checks; additional funds can be wired from overseas soon afterward.

Establishing a bank account before becoming a resident in the United States is rather complicated and students are encouraged to wait until orientation to do so. To open an account, a student holding an F-1 or J-1 entry visa must obtain either a Social Security number or an IRS Form W-8 and a "U.S. tax payer identification number." The Form W-8 is typically obtained from the bank, but may also be obtained at the time of visa application from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Some banks will accept wire transfers of funds by establishing an account number for you ahead of time. You must contact the bank of your choice, please inform them that you are an incoming Carleton College student. If there are any difficulties, please have the bank contact the Director of International Student Programs at Carleton College. You must fax a copy of your passport, your F-1 or J-1 visa, a Social Security number or a U.S. Taxpayer Identification Number (or a copy of Form W-8), and a copy of your admission letter to the bank.

Money

Students are strongly urged to bring traveler's checks and not to carry large amounts of cash. Students should, however, have $150 to $250 available to cover immediate expenses such as transportation and tips. This amount can easily be exchanged for U.S. currency at the airport of entry. ATMs (Automated telling machines, money dispensers) are another option for obtaining cash. Most ATM's in the US will accept credit or bank cards with the "PLUS," "Cirrus," "NCE," or "Yankee 24" Logo.

Carleton College is an expensive community. We advise students to have about $700 in available to cover such one-time expenses as textbooks for the term, linens, newspapers or magazines, and other miscellaneous items including toiletries, desk lamps, and other personal articles. Once you establish a bank account, you can pay for many personal purchases by check or Bank Debit Card. Photo identification (such as a passport or U.S. driver's license) is always required to cash a check. You may also apply for a non-driver Identification card at the local Department of Motor Vehicles.

Wiring funds to Carleton College:

If you prefer to submit payment for tuition and fees for your first term directly from abroad, you may wire funds to the Carleton College bank account. Please provide complete and precise information with your wire transfer.

Vital student information:

Student given name
Student id
Student mailing address

International and/or Domestic Wire Transfer:

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
ABA: 021000021
Swift Code: CHASUS33
Account Name: Carleton College
Account Number: 698570199

To ensure proper credit, please notify the Business Office either by email (businessoffice@acs.carleton.edu) or call 507-646-4179 giving them the amount of the wire transfer, the date the transfer was completed and the student’s given name.