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… read more
Getting Involved
Apply to Become an International Orientation Volunteer
Do you remember your first days at The University of Texas at Austin? Arriving on campus, navigating a new city, meeting new people, and learning your way around the Forty Acres can feel both exciting and overwhelming. For thousands of international students each year, International Student Orientation is one of… read more
Building Connection, One Conversation at a Time: The Global LLC Experience
At The University of Texas at Austin, global engagement is not limited to the classroom. In the Global Living Learning Community (LLC), students build intercultural understanding through everyday interactions that shape their college experience in lasting ways. The Global LLC is a close-knit cohort of approximately 30 students, predominantly composed of incoming… read more
A Fresh Start: Language Circles Launch a New Format at ISSS
On the evening of March 11, students gathered in the Global Lounge for the first Language Circles event under a new format introduced by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) at Texas Global. The event marked the start of a refreshed approach to language practice that aims to create more… read more
Celebrating Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day, celebrated each year on February 14, is a widely recognized holiday in the United States. While it is often associated with romantic relationships, Valentine’s Day has grown to encompass many ways to express care, appreciation, and friendship. For international students who may be experiencing this holiday for the… read more
Welcoming New Students to the Forty Acres: Spring 2026 Orientation
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) was pleased to welcome new international students to campus during the Spring 2026 New International Student Orientation, held January 6-9. Throughout the week, students learned about life at UT Austin, connected with campus and community resources, and began building community while exploring Austin. A… read more
Celebrating Global Connection in 2025
As the fall semester comes to a close, the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) team at The University of Texas at Austin is reflecting on a vibrant season filled with learning, laughter, and connection. This semester, our international students took part in a range of programs designed not only… read more
Your Guide to Thanksgiving: Meaning, Traditions, and Local Ways to Join In
Each November, people across the United States gather to celebrate Thanksgiving — a holiday centered around gratitude, food, and community. Observed on the fourth Thursday of November, it marks one of the most cherished American traditions and signals the beginning of the winter holiday season. A Brief History Thanksgiving’s origins… read more
Reviving the Friendship Program: Connections, Community, and New Beginnings
We’re excited to share that the UT Austin Friendship Program has returned for the 2025–2026 academic year. After months of planning and outreach, the program is making a highly anticipated return. This year’s participants feature more than 60 community hosts from across Austin along with over 120 international students and… read more
Apply to be an International Orientation Volunteer!
Did you attend International Student Orientation when you first arrived at UT? You now have a chance to be one of the friendly student faces welcoming new international students to campus. International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is currently accepting applications for the International Orientation Volunteer (IOV) program, recruiting graduate… read more