Are you an F-1 student graduating in Spring 2024? If so, now is the time to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is here to guide you through this important process. What is OPT? Optional Practical Training is an employment benefit for students… read more
The Orange Bike Project: An Affordable Way to Explore Austin
An Affordable Way to Explore Austin Did you know that Austin is a wonderful city to experience by bike? Dedicated bike paths, protected bike lanes and bike racks on all Capital Metro buses make it easy to get to and from campus from many different parts of the city. Not… read more
Winter Break is Coming! Plan for Travel and ISSS Closure
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), along with the rest of The University of Texas at Austin, will be closed for the winter break, December 23 – January 1. During the break, ISSS advisors will not be available for assistance. The University will open for the spring semester starting Tuesday,… read more
Self-Compassion and Kindness
Self-compassion and kindness toward oneself are concepts that are gaining popularity, especially in the United States. However, for many international students, this may be a new concept — or one that doesn’t necessarily align with cultural values. What is self-compassion? Compassion is a concept that describes the mind’s ability… read more
Addressing Perfectionism
You may have heard people say something like, “Perfect is the enemy of good.” But what does that mean? It’s a common response to the way that many people focus on perfection in every area, keeping themselves from improving or finishing a project. Although it’s good to strive for quality,… read more
International Student Barometer: Be a Part of the Global Student Voice
Survey Open Now Through December 18 Studying away from home can be an experience that’s as challenging as it is rewarding. At International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), we care about the experiences of our international students and want to hear from you. For the fourth year in a row,… read more
Academic Training: J-1 Post-Completion Employment Authorization
Are you a J-1 student graduating from your degree program or completing your exchange program in Fall 2023? Are you interested in staying and working in the U.S. after completing your program? If so, now is the time to apply for J-1 academic training. What is J-1 academic training? Academic… read more
Got Travel Plans? Get Travel Signatures!
Hi, everyone. We hope you are having a great fall semester! With Thanksgiving and winter break on the horizon, many of you may be planning to travel internationally. Please let this be your gentle reminder that when you do eventually head back to the United States to resume your studies,… read more
Extend Your I-20 or DS-2019
It is your responsibility as an F-1/J-1 student to ensure that your immigration documents accurately reflect your current academic program. Please keep an eye on the status of your I-20 or DS-2019 forms to keep them valid, using the information below. Do I need an I-20/DS-2019 extension? Please review your… read more
Scholarship Applications Now Open
International students can now apply for spring and summer 2024 financial aid and scholarships. Applications are due November 1 (11:59 p.m. CDT). Students will receive their decision notifications by late December. Information Session Join us for a Zoom information session on Friday, October 13 at 11 a.m. CDT to discuss… read more