Starting at a new university in a new country comes with excitement, opportunity, and plenty of questions. International Orientation, taking place August 14-20 for Fall Semester 2026, is designed to help incoming international students begin their time at The University of Texas at Austin with the information, connections, and support they need to feel confident from day one.
International Orientation offers more than a warm welcome to the Forty Acres. Throughout the week, students will gain practical guidance on navigating life at UT, understanding immigration requirements, accessing campus resources, and building community before classes begin.
Start Strong at New Student Welcome
International Orientation begins on August 14 with the New Student Welcome, a session designed to introduce students to essential information they will use throughout their time at UT.
Students will hear from Texas Global leadership and receive guidance on important early steps for settling into life in Austin, including obtaining a UT ID card and how to register for classes.
The session will also introduce key immigration compliance expectations and explain how International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) supports students throughout their academic journey through advising, resources, and ongoing support.
Students will leave with a clearer understanding of where to go for help, what resources are available to them, and how to stay informed and successful as international students.
Learn about Academic Success Resources, Employment Authorization, and Living in Austin
The New Student Welcome also includes breakout sessions that help students prepare for academic success, understand employment opportunities, and begin feeling at home in Austin.
One session focuses on academic success resources and what students can expect from the U.S. classroom experience. Students will learn about available support systems and strategies that can help them adjust to a new academic environment.
Another breakout session explores employment opportunities and authorizations available to international students, including on-campus employment and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Understanding these options early helps students make informed decisions and prepare for future opportunities.
Students can also attend the “How to Be an Austinite” breakout session to learn more about local favorites and what to do in Austin. From popular spots around the city to recommendations for making the most of life beyond campus, the session helps students begin exploring their new home and feeling more connected to the Austin community.
Connect with Resources Across Texas Global
Students will also have opportunities to connect directly with campus partners during “Resources and Refreshments,” taking place August 14, 17, and 18, in the Global Lounge at the Texas Global Office.
This informal resource fair gives students the opportunity to ask questions and connect with teams that support international students across many areas of university life.
Students can learn more about:
- Opening a U.S. bank account with local banking representatives.
- Insurance resources with Global Risk and Safety.
- Study abroad opportunities through Education Abroad.
- English language classes for students and dependents through the English Language Center.
- Immigration questions and compliance guidance from Student Immigration Advising.
- Registration holds and transcript verification support from the Office of the Registrar.
Students will also be able to learn more about the University Health Services (UHS) Immunization Clinic for international students. UHS offers dedicated clinic dates in August to help students complete required immunization and medical clearance requirements before registration. Students who still need vaccines, tuberculosis testing, or assistance completing medical requirements are encouraged to plan ahead and schedule an appointment. Appointments are required, and walk-ins are not available. Students can make an appointment and learn more here.
Exchange students will also have a dedicated session on August 17 focused on information specific to their experience at UT, including immigration guidance and resources available to exchange students.
Building Community Early
While International Orientation is centered on helping students gain the information they need to succeed, students will also have opportunities to connect with fellow Longhorns and explore Austin.
Throughout the week, students can participate in social activities including:
- Free Austin city bus tours on August 15.
- International Orientation Volunteer-led UT campus tours on August 16.
- A Texas Two-Step dance lesson on August 18.
- Undergraduate and graduate student mixers on August 19.
- Additional IOV-led outings to favorite boba shops, study spots, and more.
International Orientation Volunteers (IOVs) are current international students who help welcome incoming students by sharing their experiences, answering questions, and helping new Longhorns feel more at home in their new community.
Arrive Informed and Ready for the Semester
International Orientation is one of the best opportunities for new international students to get answers, understand expectations, and begin building their support network before the semester begins.
Whether students are learning how to navigate immigration requirements, discovering campus resources, or meeting fellow international students, International Orientation provides a strong foundation for a successful start at UT Austin.
This blog post was contributed by Sarah Chiu, program coordinator on the Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team at ISSS.
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