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International Student Orientation

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) organizes orientation and welcome events for incoming international students every fall and spring semester. These events allow students to meet their future classmates and get oriented to The University of Texas at Austin, the City of Austin, the State of Texas and the United States.

International Student Orientation is a separate orientation that provides content unique to international students. Depending on your classification, you must also attend either Freshman Orientation, Transfer Orientation or Graduate Student Orientation. Exchange students visiting from partner universities abroad should refer to their exchange student advisor to learn more about their orientation requirements. 

Fall 2024 Orientation Events

Welcome events and orientation programs are held either online or in person. We will update the Orientation Events Calendar as events are confirmed. 

Pre-Arrival Webinar Series

Prepare for your arrival to Austin by attending virtual sessions presented by ISSS staff on a range of topics. 

Topics include:

  • Applying for your Student Visa – Thursday, June 27, 9-10 a.m.
  • Housing in Austin – Wednesday, July 3, 9-10 a.m.
  • Ask an Advisor: Degree-Seeking Students – Wednesday, July 10, 9-10 a.m.
  • Ask an Advisor: Exchange Students – Wednesday, July 10, 9-10 a.m.
  • Health Insurance in the U.S. – Wednesday, July 17, 9-10 a.m.
  • Working at UT – Wednesday, July 24, 9-10 a.m.
  • Managing Your Finances – Tuesday, July 30, 9-10 a.m.
  • Accessing ISSS Services – Thursday, Aug. 1, 9-10 a.m.
  • Accessing ISSS Services – Thursday, Aug. 8, 9-10 a.m.

For detailed information on each session, and to register, visit the Event Calendar. 

Note: All sessions are recorded and available on the Canvas platform (see below). 

International Student Orientation Modules on Canvas

Prepare for life at UT Austin with our International Student Orientation Modules on Canvas. These short videos are designed to help you prepare for your arrival by learning about cultural adjustment, expectations of the U.S. classroom, healthcare in the U.S., and much more. 

New students received an email invitation to join the Canvas platform in early July. If you did not receive this email and/or are having issues accessing the orientation modules, email isss-orientation@austin.utexas.edu for assistance. 

In-Person New International Student Welcome 

Friday, Aug. 16, 2024

9-11 a.m. CDT

Texas Union Ballroom (UNB 3.202)

Join ISSS staff and fellow international students for a fun and interactive welcome to UT! Learn practical advice for being a UT student and resources to help prepare you for your first few weeks at the University. Food, prizes and friendly faces are waiting for you!

This welcome event is not mandatory, though highly encouraged to attend.

Registration is required and will open August 1.

New Student Administrative Support: Resources and Refreshments

Friday, Aug. 16 and 19-21, 2024

12-4 p.m. CDT

Texas Global Lounge (N24)

ISSS is pleased to partner with various UT offices to answer questions from new international students. Want to know more about transcript drop-off? UT ID pick-up? Health insurance? Immunization? F-1 and J-1 immigration requirements? Drop by and get some answers! Refreshments provided.

For detailed information on this event, including location, visit the Event Calendar. 

New Student Administrative Support: Social Security Number Letter Signatures

Friday, Aug. 16 and 19-21, 2024

12-4 p.m. CDT 

Texas Global Lounge (N24)

F-1 and J-1 students employed on campus must obtain a Social Security Number. Join this event to receive an endorsement (signature) from an International Student Advisor on your Social Security Number Employment Verification Letter. This endorsement from our office is a necessary part of your SSN application.

Registration is required and will open August 12.

For detailed information on what is required to attend this event, and to register, visit the Event Calendar. 

In-Person Welcome Events

Get to know Austin, the UT Austin campus, and your new classmates during the following welcome events. 

Registration is required and will open August 12.

For detailed information on each event, and to register, visit the Events Calendar.