International Student Orientation
International Student Orientation is one of International Student and Scholar Services’ (ISSS) most important contributions to the success of our incoming international students. Offered before classes start at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, this series of in-person events and webinars are designed to connect international students with the vast resources available to them across campus, as well as to each other.
International Student Orientation is a stand-alone orientation with unique content for incoming, degree-seeking international students. Depending on your classification, you will be required to attend Freshman Orientation, Transfer Orientation, or Graduate Student Orientation alongside incoming U.S. students in those classifications. While not mandatory, we strongly encourage new international students to attend International Student Orientation to ensure you understand the University and government policies and procedures that apply to international students.
Some of the essential services available during International Student Orientation:
- SSN letters
- Transcript verification
- Immunization clinic
- US banking information and account creation
- Immigration advising
- Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) information
*Please note that incoming exchange students visiting from partner universities outside the US should contact the student exchange advisors for information about their orientation requirements.
Pre-Arrival Webinars and Spring 2026 Orientation Events
The pre-arrival webinar series is a set of Zoom presentations by ISSS advisors designed to set you up for success during your time at UT Austin. From the visa application process to learning about housing in Austin, we’ve got you covered! Check the Texas Global Events page and your email for registration links, updates, and details on upcoming sessions. If you are unable to attend a webinar, you can request a recording by emailing isss-orientation@austin.utexas.edu.
- Housing in Austin Thursday, October 9, 9-10 a.m. Central Daylight Time
- Applying for Your Student Visa Thursday, October 16, 9-10 a.m. CDT
- Banking, Budgeting, and Onboarding Thursday, October 23, 9-10 a.m. CDT
- Health Insurance in the U.S. and Insurance Waivers Thursday, October 30, 9-10 a.m. CDT
- Accessing ISSS Resources Thursday, November 6, 9-10 a.m. Central Standard Time
- Planning Your First Week in Austin Thursday, November 13, 9-10 a. CST
International Student Orientation Modules on Canvas
Prepare for life at UT Austin with our International Student Orientation Modules on the Canvas platform. Access short videos 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 will receive an email invitation to join the Canvas in early November. If you have questions about the orientation modules, email isss-orientation@austin.utexas.edu for assistance.
In-Person Orientation Events
New International Student Welcome
January 6, 2026, 10 a.m.-1:00 p.m. WCP Student Activity Center
Join ISSS staff and fellow international students for a fun and interactive welcome to UT Austin! 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 it is highly encouraged to attend.
In-Person Resources Fair
- January 6, 2026, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Texas Global 2400 Nueces Street
- January 7, 2026, 1-3 p.m. Texas Global 2400 Nueces Street
ISSS hosts “Resources and Refreshments” at Texas Global in collaboration with various UT Austin offices. Get your questions answered in one place. Want to know more about health insurance? Bank accounts and wire transfers? Immunizations? F-1 and J-1 immigration requirements? Visit us at the Global Lounge at ISSS. Light refreshments provided!
Other In-Person Welcome Events
January 6-10, 2026
Get to know Austin, the UT Austin campus, and your international classmates during ISSS welcome events. From learning how to dance the Texas Two-Step to competing in a campus scavenger hunt, there will be many ways to get involved!
Note: We will update the Orientation Events Calendar as events are confirmed.