International Student Services

When and Where is Orientation?

Orientation begins at 8:30am and concludes by 2:30pm.

Fall 2009 Orientations will take place in the Galaxy Rooms of the Student Union (see a campus map). The dates of Orientation are:

• Tuesday, July 28
  (transfer students encouraged to attend)
• Tuesday, August 4
  (TAs/RAs encouraged to attend)
• Tuesday, August 11
• Monday, August 17
• Friday, August 21
  (Students who attend the August 21st Orientation may incur late registration fees)

You only need to register for one Orientation and may choose the Orientation that works best for you.

Do I Have to Attend Orientation?

F-1 and J-1 Visa Holders
International Student Orientation is mandatory for F-1 and J-1 visa holders enrolling at UT Dallas for the first time and students changing their visa status to F-1.

F-1 and J-1 Undergraduate Freshman
While you may also attend a Freshman Orientation at UT Dallas, you are still required to attend an International Student Orientation as well.  For more information, please e-mail ISSOprograms@utdallas.edu.

Other Visa Holders
International Student Orientation is not mandatory for other visa holders, however, you are welcome to attend if you are a new student. 

How Do I Register for Orientation?

To register yourself for Orientation, please go to the UT Dallas Online Store and complete the form.  You will receive a confirmation e-mail immediately.  Please e-mail ISSOprograms@utdallas.edu if you have difficulty registering online.

Important Documents to Submit Before Orientation

All F-1 and J-1 visa holders must submit copies of their immigration documents to the ISSO prior to registering for classes.  You may submit your immigration documents by:

• E-mail to ISSOProspective@utdallas.edu
• Fax to 972.883.4010
• ISSO office (McDermott Library MC 1.310)

Important note: The International Student Services Office will not be able to make copies for you. Please make photocopies in advance. Copy machines are available on the ground floor of the McDermott Library across from the Student Union building. Each copy costs 10 cents.

Students Arriving from Overseas

We strongly recommend you submit copies of the following documents the week before Orientation as it will expedite your registration for classes.  If you are unable to submit your documents in advance, you may bring them with you to your Orientation session:

• The stamped I-20 (page 1 and 3)
• The visa
• The identification page in your passport including expiration date
• Both sides of the I-94

Students Transferring from Another U.S. Institution

If you are transferring your SEVIS record from another U.S. institution to UT Dallas, please submit copies of the following documents 30 days before your program start date:

• UT Dallas Financial Affidavit
• Financial support documents:
  - Bank statement on bank letterhead, no older than six months
  - UT Dallas TA/RA letter, if applicable
  - UT Dallas Scholarship letter, if applicable
• The visa
• The identification page in your passport including expiration date
• Both sides of the I-94
• Most current I-20 (page 1 and 3)
• EAD card (if applicable)

How Much Does Orientation Cost and What Does the Fee Include?

Your $50 Orientation fee will be assessed to your account after you attend Orientation. You will pay your Orientation fee when you pay your tuition and fees bill. Your $50 Orientation fee includes:

• Airport Pick-Ups
• Breakfast and lunch at Orientation
• Orientation materials
• Orientation Extras:
  • August 13: Social Security Administration Trip (for students who have secured employment only and need a SSN)
  • August 15: All Night Madness
  • August 19: Women Only: You and Your Body
  • August 20: International Student Survival Guide
  • August 20: Student Mixer
  • August 21: How to Get the Most Out of the Library
  • August 24: Welcome to Texas Party
  • August 25: How to Get the Most Out of the Library
    

What Happens After Orientation?

• Register for classes with an academic advisor (Complete an academic orientation if required).
• Pay tuition and fees at the Bursar’s Office.
• Take fee payment receipt to the Comet Center to apply for your Comet Card (student ID).
• Register for computer account online.
• Visit the Payroll and Tax Compliance Office.
• Apply for a free DART bus pass.
• Apply for health insurance waiver in the ISSO before Census Day, if eligible.
• Attend class and purchase books.
• Discover international student life.