Starting college in a new country is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. That’s why International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) hosts International Student Orientation — a week of programs designed to help you feel prepared, connected, and confident before your first day of classes.
Whether you’re wondering how to navigate immigration requirements, where to open a bank account, how to meet new friends, or simply what life in Austin is like, International Student Orientation is your opportunity to get those questions answered while building your Longhorn community. Although International Student Orientation is optional, ISSS strongly encourages every new international student to participate, because the information and connections you’ll make can have a lasting impact on your transition to The University of Texas at Austin.
Prepare Before You Arrive
If you’re reading this just before arriving in Austin, there’s still time to prepare for orientation.
Throughout the spring and summer, ISSS hosted a series of pre-arrival webinars covering topics such as student visas, housing, health insurance, banking, budgeting, and planning your first week in Austin. If you weren’t able to attend these live sessions, don’t worry because you can watch the webinar recordings anytime through the International Student Orientation Canvas Course.
The Canvas course also includes self-paced orientation modules that will help you prepare for life at UT Austin, covering topics such as:
- Cultural adjustment.
- Expectations in U.S. classrooms.
- Healthcare and health insurance.
- Campus resources.
- Daily life in Austin.
Spending some time exploring the Canvas course before orientation will help you arrive feeling more confident and ready to make the most of your first week on campus. If you have questions as you work through the modules, you can always reach out to the ISSS team for assistance.
Start Your Journey at the New International Student Welcome
Orientation officially kicks off with the New International Student Welcome, where you’ll meet ISSS staff and fellow incoming students, and learn practical tips for navigating your first few weeks at UT Austin.
Expect a fun and welcoming atmosphere complete with:
- Helpful presentations.
- Opportunities to meet other new students.
- Food and refreshments.
- Giveaways and prizes.
- Plenty of time to ask questions.
This event is designed to help you feel comfortable before classes begin and remind you that you’re joining a supportive international community.
Connect with Campus Resources
One of the most valuable parts of orientation is Resources and Refreshments, an in-person resource fair where you’ll have the chance to meet staff from across the University in one convenient location.
You’ll be able to learn about services such as:
- Immigration advising.
- Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP).
- Immunization clinics.
- Banking and wire transfers.
- Transcript verification.
- Social Security Number (SSN) support.
- Campus resources and student services.
Instead of searching for answers on your own, you can speak directly with the people who will continue supporting you throughout your time at UT Austin.
Learn What You Need to Know
International Student Orientation isn’t just about meeting people—it’s also about making sure you have the information you need to start the semester successfully.
Throughout orientation, you’ll learn about:
- Maintaining your immigration status.
- Important University policies.
- Academic expectations.
- Campus resources.
- Health insurance requirements.
- Student support services.
- Life in Austin and the United States.
These sessions are designed specifically for international students, focusing on topics that may not be covered during other University orientation programs.
Explore Austin and Make New Friends
Orientation week also includes a variety of social events that help you get to know both the University and your new city.
Depending on your interests, you can participate in activities such as:
- Austin city bus tours.
- Student-led campus tours.
- Two Step into Texas: Texas Two-Step dance lessons.
- Undergraduate and graduate social events.
- Exchange Student Orientation (for exchange students).
More Than Just Orientation
International Student Orientation is designed to help you beyond your first week on campus.
By participating, you’ll:
- Build friendships before classes begin.
- Learn where to find help when you need it.
- Become familiar with important University resources.
- Gain confidence navigating life in the United States.
- Start feeling at home in the Longhorn community.
Many students arrive knowing no one in Austin. By the end of orientation week, you’ll have met fellow international students, connected with ISSS staff, explored campus and the city, and learned how to make the most of your experience at UT Austin. Whether you’re attending informational sessions, enjoying refreshments with new friends, or exploring Austin alongside an International Orientation Volunteer, every event is designed to help you start your Longhorn journey with confidence.
Welcome to the Forty Acres. We can’t wait to see you at International Student Orientation!
This blog post was contributed by Sarah Chiu, program coordinator on the Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team at ISSS.
