As October turns into November, Austin comes alive with two colorful and meaningful traditions: Halloween and Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Although these holidays share the same season, they stem from very different cultural backgrounds and are celebrated in unique ways. For international students, faculty, and scholars… read more
General
Experiencing UT Women’s Soccer
We brought a group of international students to cheer on the Texas Longhorns Women’s Soccer team in their Sept. 26 match against Vanderbilt University. For many attendees, this was the first time seeing a live college sporting event in the United States. The evening was filled with energy, school spirit,… read more
Finding Your Footing: Coping with Uncertainty as an International Student
Uncertainty is one of the most common and most difficult experiences international students face when studying in the U.S. It shows up in big ways, such as “Will my visa be approved? What happens after graduation?” and in small, daily moments, “Why didn’t my professor reply? Did I say the… 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
Financial Wellness Seminar With UFCU Helps Students Navigate the U.S. Financial System
Earlier this month, we hosted the opening session of the Fall 2025 Financial Wellness Lunch series in partnership with the University Federal Credit Union (UFCU), as part of our Wellness Fridays programming. More than 30 students attended this introductory session, which focused on initial steps international students and scholars can… read more
Longhorn Football Watch Party!
On August 30, ISSS welcomed 70 international students to the Texas Global Lounge to watch the Texas Longhorns battle it out with Ohio State University (OSU) for the first American football game of the 2025-2026 season! For many international students, events like this provide more than just a fun day… read more
Join the Global Mentorship Program
Interested in a global career but not sure where to start? Learn from UT Austin’s international alumni! Texas Global is pleased to introduce our Global Mentorship Program. Designed exclusively for UT Austin students and recently graduated alumni across the globe, this program offers opportunities for global networking, career advice,… read more
Got Travel Plans? Get Travel Signatures
Greetings from International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)! We hope you’re enjoying the summer, wherever you may be spending it. For those outside the United States, we’re sharing this gentle reminder that when you head back here to resume your studies, you will need a TRAVEL SIGNATURE on your I-20 or… read more
Fourth of July Celebrations in Austin
Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, honors the passage of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, and commemorates the founding of the United States of America. People celebrate this federal holiday throughout the country by gathering with family and friends. Whether you plan to spend… read more
Why We Celebrate “Freedom Day” on Juneteenth
In 2021, President Joe Biden signed a bill to designate June 19, or “Juneteenth,” as a federal holiday in the United States. On this day, federal employees (as well as The University of Texas at Austin staff) have the day off to honor and commemorate the significance of Juneteenth. What… read more