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
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Request to Extend Your I-20 or DS-2019
While you wrap up your coursework requirements for the semester, be sure to also take care of your immigration requirements. Remember, you must always have a valid and up-to-date Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 in order to remain in the United States and at The University of Texas at Austin. … read more
Spending a Day Outdoors in Austin
If you’re looking to spend a day exploring the great outdoors in and around Austin, know this: you will have no shortage of options. Even as an ever-changing city, Austin celebrates the outdoors by investing in several community spaces for all to enjoy. There is something for everyone, whether you’re… read more
Summer Internship Authorization for F-1 and J-1 Students
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
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
H-1B Visa Renewal Pilot Program: Everything You Need to Know
Great news! The U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced a pilot program that allows visa applicants to apply for a renewal of their H-1B visa within the United States! To qualify for this program, applicants must have had their previous H-1B visa issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate in… read more
Scholarship Applications Now Open
International students can now apply for 2024-2025 financial aid and scholarships. Applications are due March 1, 2024 (11:59 p.m. CST). Students will receive their decision notifications in early to mid-April. Information Session Join us for a Zoom information session Wednesday, February 14, at 12 p.m. CST to discuss financial aid… read more
Truths of International Study that Nobody Talks About
Moving from your own country to study in the United States can seem like a journey of a million steps. So once you’ve done the hard work of gaining admission to The University of Texas at Austin, you might be surprised by this fact when you arrive on campus: The… read more
Be Vigilant: Don’t Fall for a Scam!
International students and scholars are often targeted for scams here in the United States or while organizing travel and accommodations before they arrive. Avoid falling for these scams by equipping yourself with knowledge. How Scams Work Scams are a dishonest way to obtain a person’s confidential information and/or money through… 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