Services
International Student Services (ISS) seeks to address the needs and issues of international students from their very first contact with the university as a prospective student to as long as they have a student relationship with the university. Such needs includes information and help in regard to admission processes, immigration processes, federal regulations, customs/culture, social needs, housing, medical care, and other needs that help them to make a successful adjustment to the life as a student in the U.S.
ISS seeks to provide a social support system and leadership opportunities through the coordination of the International Student Association. Activities such as camping, culture nights, volleyball, fund raisers, and travel all give the international student the opportunity to grow, adapt, and become comfortable in his/her new environment. This association also serves as the voice of the UTRGV international community to the university and also to the local area
Community volunteer groups work through the ISS to also service the needs of the international students.
ISS also serves to keep both the university and the international student in compliance with federal regulations. It serves as the liaison for both the university and the student with all federal agencies. The ISS conducts international student orientations, immigration workshops, and provides other education services to both the university and the student. ISS advises on all immigration matters that relates to international student.
Services Provided
- Admission Services to all students who are not a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Initial contact
- Information
- Processing of your initial I-20
- Correspondence
- Immigration Services
- Issuing immigration documents
- SEVIS Reporting
- Filing of Immigration applications and advising in procedures for:
- Change of Status
- Evaluation of financial sources
- Optional Practical Training
- Reinstatement
- Work authorizations
- Extensions of Stay
- Changes of degree level
- Concurrent enrollment
- Serve as a resource about federal regulations and practices
- Authorization of employment
- Files and maintains current certification applications for the university with the Department of State and with the Department of Homeland Security
- File annual Exchange Visitor Report
- Advisement Services
- Immigration
- University policies
- Health Insurance
- Cultural adjustment
- Travel endorsement
- Employment issues
- Social Security
- Driver’s license
- Automobile Insurance
- Educational Services
- International Student Orientations
- Immigration workshops for both faculty and students
- Immigration seminars
- Immigration handouts
- Liaison Services
- Represent the university on immigration related issues
- Serve as liaison between IA & SS and departments, government agencies, and businesses in concerns regarding international students
- Coordination of Community Services
- International Friendship Partners
- Cultural awareness classes
- Volunteer organizations serving the needs of internationals
- Social Services
- International Cultural Activities
- International Week/Parade
- International Women’s Week
- Thanksgiving in American Celebration
- International Student Holiday Exchange Program
- Week of Finals Breakfast Luncheon
- Movie Nights
- Coffee and Donuts
- Financial Services
- Good Neighbor Scholarship
- International Student Talent Scholarship
- Referral Services
- Local immigration attorneys
- Local counseling centers
- Apartment referrals
- Volunteer agencies that provide services for international students