Are you planning to participate in an internship this summer? Keep in mind that all F-1 and J-1 students must obtain proper work authorization before starting any type of off-campus internship or employment. This is an important part of properly maintaining your immigration status. Read on to learn about F-1… read more
F-1 students
Spring Break Travel Reminders
Spring Break is around the corner, and travel plans are in full swing. Read further to understand how F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors can safely and smoothly re-enter the United States after traveling internationally. Valid Travel Signature A valid, unexpired travel signature on your immigration document (I-20 or DS-2019)… read more
Time to Apply for OPT Temporary Work Authorization
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
Graduating in Summer? Read this!
In-Person Enrollment Required Are you an F-1 or J-1 student? Will you be graduating this summer? If so, be prepared to enroll in enough in-person or hybrid courses this summer. The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) COVID-19 guidance is expiring at the end of the Spring 2023 semester. We… read more
Travel Updates
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
‘Tis the Season for Travel Signatures!
Students, are you planning to travel outside of the United States? As you begin thinking about your Thanksgiving and winter break plans, don’t forgot to obtain a travel signature if you plan to leave the United States. The travel validation signature can be found on page 3 of the I-20 and… read more
Dropping classes and maintaining status
Tuesday, November 4, is the last day an undergraduate student can withdraw from the university or drop a class, with the dean’s approval. It is also the last day that an undergraduate student may change registration for a class to a pass/fail basis. If you’re thinking about dropping a class,… read more
Award Opportunity: Texas International Business Community Involvement Scholarship
F-1 students from China may be eligible to apply for the Texas International Business Community Involvement Scholarship for the 2013-14 academic year offered through Invest in Texas Initiative. This organization is offering $200, $500 and $1,000 scholarships, as well as volunteer opportunities for Chinese students who are active in or are… read more
Traveling During Winter Break? Don’t Forget Your Travel Signature!
Thanksgiving and winter breaks are coming soon, so it’s time to start preparing for your travel plans! If you are traveling internationally, please don’t forget that you need a valid travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019 in order to reenter the United States. The travel validation signature can be found… read more
Traveling During the Summer? What to Know Before You Go!
If you are an international student or scholar and plan to travel this summer, be sure that you have the appropriate immigration documents. Review Your I-20 or DS-2019 Don’t forget to check your I-20/DS-2019 for a valid travel signature: Look at page 3 of the I-20 (F-1 students) or page… read more