International Student and Scholar Services
Advisers who are aware of the demands associated with studying in another country are available to assist international students with matters related to their immigration status, cross-cultural adjustment, orientation to the University, financial aid, health insurance, housing, legal issues, employment, income tax status, social security regulations, and personal problems or concerns. International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) also assists in case of an emergency involving an international student or the student’s family. More information about ISSS office hours and services is published by the International Office at http://world.utexas.edu/isss/ .
Sponsored Student Program. International students and sponsors of international students are provided advisers, special financial arrangements, required certifications, and supervision while in academic status and under sponsorship.
SEVIS and immigration regulation compliance. Student immigration advisers are available to assist international students with issues regarding immigration status and the immigration service. For example, in accordance with immigration regulations, an international student who seeks to be enrolled for fewer than twelve hours as an undergraduate or fewer than nine hours as a graduate student is referred to ISSS. Withdrawal petitions for international students are referred to ISSS before final action is taken by the appropriate academic dean’s office.
Special programs. The office administers special contract programs consistent with the academic objectives of the University and handles special arrangements for groups, including visiting representatives of other nations.
Mandatory health insurance. The Student Health Insurance Program is mandatory for international students, and the cost is included in the student’s tuition bill each semester. A student who has an acceptable level of coverage under another insurance plan may request a waiver of the mandatory plan through ISSS prior to the twelfth class day each long semester. Please see the ISSS insurance Web site at http://world.utexas.edu/isss/insurance for a full list of waiver deadlines. The minimum acceptable level of coverage is $50,000 per accident or illness, with a deductible that does not exceed $500 per accident or illness; $10,000 for medical evacuation to the home country; and $7,500 for repatriation. Dependents in J-2 (exchange visitor) status are also required to have an acceptable level of coverage.