Do US universities accept international bank transfers for tuition

Yes. Most US universities accept international bank transfers for tuition, but almost never directly to their own bank account. They usually require using an approved payment portal such as Flywire, Convera (formerly Western Union Business Solutions), or Touchnet.

How international transfers to US universities usually work

Universities prefer controlled payment platforms because they reduce fraud, match payments to the correct student account, and avoid lost or unidentified wires. These platforms guide you through the process and give you the exact banking details that apply to your country and currency.

• Payment portals: You first log in to your student account and select the university’s official payment link (for example, Pay by International Transfer). The portal generates instructions for a bank transfer, including the receiving bank, reference number, and amount.
• Local-currency options: Many portals let you pay in your home currency. This can reduce transfer fees and make the total cost clearer.
• Reference numbers matter: The unique reference ID is how the university matches your payment to your student record. If it is missing or incorrect, your payment can be delayed or put on hold.
• Processing time: International transfers usually take 2 to 7 business days. Some countries take longer because of intermediary banks.
• Limits and restrictions: Some countries have currency controls or require government forms for large tuition transfers. The portal usually includes guidance for these cases.

What to avoid

• Do not send money directly to the university’s bank account unless they explicitly allow it. Most schools reject unsolicited international wires or cannot match them.
• Do not use personal transfer apps: Apps like PayPal, Wise personal transfers, or consumer remittance services often get rejected because they do not provide the required student identification format.
• Beware of exchange shops or agents: Universities never ask students to send funds through third parties outside the official payment portal.

What you should prepare

• Your student ID number: Needed for matching payments.
• Transfer limits with your bank: Large payments may need pre-approval.
• Proof of payment: Keep the bank receipt and the payment portal confirmation until the university marks your bill as paid.