COVID-19-related travel bans still apply to several countries. However, on April 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of State announced an extension of the National Interest Exceptions (NIEs) to include the following countries: China Iran Brazil South Africa The U.K. Ireland The Schengen area What does this mean for F-1 students… read more
General
Apply to be an International Orientation Volunteer
Now that you are an experienced and seasoned Longhorn, why not assist new international students as they begin their UT journey? Consider serving as an International Orientation Volunteer (IOV) this August and help your new classmates find their place at UT and in Austin, Texas. As an IOV, you can… read more
Get Hooked on UT RecSports
Whether you are new to the Forty Acres or are looking for more ways to add movement and recreation to your experience, you’ll likely find it at RecSports. With their eight recreation and fitness facilities and various programs, activities and events, there are numerous ways to stay active on campus.… read more
International Travel Reminders for F-1, J-1 Students
International Student and Scholar Services currently advises against inessential international travel due to the challenges posed by COVID-19. If you are an F-1 or J-1 student who needs to travel internationally this summer, here’s what you need to know. Make sure you have a valid travel signature. To re-enter the… read more
Online Filing for OPT/STEM OPT Applications
ISSS currently advises you NOT to file your OPT/STEM OPT application online. What is the new option to file online? F-1 students must complete the Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization and mail it to USCIS with supporting documentation (including an OPT/STEM OPT I-20 issued by ISSS) to apply for… read more
Need More Time to Complete Your Studies? Extend your I-20 or DS-2019
Attention F-1 and J-1 students! Is your I-20 or DS-2019 expiring this semester? Do you need more time to finish your studies? If so, you will need to extend your I-20/DS-2019. ISSS can help you with that. First, you’ll need to get in touch with your academic advisor. Ask for… read more
USCIS OPT/STEM OPT Delays and Flexibility
USCIS is currently experiencing delays in issuing receipt notices for OPT and STEM OPT applications. USCIS has acknowledged these delays and are extending some flexibility to OPT or STEM OPT applications received between October 1, 2020 and May 21, 2021. If you applied for OPT and are concerned because your… read more
Help an International Graduate Student’s Dissertation Research
An international graduate student from South Korea, Kibaek Kim, is conducting his research at the University of Arkansas to collect data for his dissertation. The purpose of this study is to analyze how sports, in the forms of watching and participating, can contribute to international students’ adjustment to the new… read more
New Scholarships Available to Students from Latin America
Looking for scholarship opportunities? The Pan American Round Table of Austin has two new scholarships available for students from Latin America: The Jeannie Hunter Hackett Memorial Scholarship, and The Gloria Mata Pennington Scholarship. The Jeannie Hunter Hackett Memorial Scholarship The Jeannie Hunter Hackett Memorial Scholarship of $2,000 is awarded to… read more
Graduating in Spring 2021? Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Are you an F-1 student who will graduate in spring 2021? Do you want to work in the U.S. after graduation? If you answered yes to both questions, then you want to apply for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is work authorization for F-1 students that allows you to… read more
