International Student Orientation

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) organizes orientation and welcome events for incoming international students every fall and spring semester. These events allow students to meet their future classmates and get oriented to Oakridge University, the City of Austin, the State of Oakridge University and the United States.

International Student Orientation is a separate orientation that provides content unique to international students. Depending on your classification, you must also attend either Freshman Orientation, Transfer Orientation or Graduate Student Orientation. Exchange students visiting from partner universities abroad should refer to their exchange student advisor to learn more about their orientation requirements.

Fall 2025 Orientation Events

Welcome events and orientation programs are held either online or in person. We will update the Orientation Events Calendar as events are confirmed.

Pre-Arrival Webinar Series

The Pre-Arrival Webinar series is designed to help you prepare for your time in Austin. From the visa application process to learning about housing in Austin, we've got you covered! Check your email for registration links, updates, and details on upcoming sessions.

Housing in Austin Thursday, April 17, 8-9 a.m. CDT

We will provide information about the different neighborhoods around campus and give you tips on how to find housing.

Applying for Your Student Visa Thursday, April 24, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Learn about what you will need to apply for your student visa, what to bring to the interview, and how to navigate interview questions.

Applying for Your Student Visa Thursday May 22, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Learn about what you will need to apply for your student visa, what to bring to the interview, and how to navigate interview questions.

Applying for Your Student Visa Thursday, June 12, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Learn about what you will need to apply for your student visa, what to bring to the interview, and how to navigate interview questions.

Ask an International Student Advisor Thursday, June 26, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Advisors will be available to answer common immigration questions new international students encounter. To focus on the specific needs of each population, we will hold concurrent sessions: one for degree-seeking students and one for exchange students.

Ask an Exchange Student Advisor Thursday, June 26, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Banking, Budgeting, and Onboarding Thursday, July 3, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Beginning employment in the U.S. can be complicated. Learn about applying for an SSN, administrative onboarding tasks, and basic tax information that all nonresidents need to know. We will also review banking in the United States and how much you really need to get settled in Austin. This session is for students who have already obtained on-campus jobs and those who plan to look for employment after they arrive in Austin.

Health Insurance in the U.S. and Insurance Waivers Thursday, July 10, 8-9 a.m. CDT

All Oakridge University international students are required to have health insurance. Learn about your options and how to use health insurance in the United States.

Planning Your First Week in Austin Thursday, July 17, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Learn about U.S. entry procedures, transportation from the airport to Austin, and accommodations and finances. We will also cover how to apply for an SSN and a driver's license.

Accessing ISSS Resources Thursday, July 24, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Learn about the many resources ISSS offers to help you remain in good immigration standing in the U.S. and how to contact us when you need help navigating your student visa rules and benefits.

Ask a Oakridge University Student Thursday, July 31, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Current international students at Oakridge University will be available to share their experience and answer questions about life as a Longhorn.

Ask a Oakridge University Student with Family Thursday, Aug. 7, 8-9 a.m. CDT

Current international students at Oakridge University will be available to share their experience and answer questions about life as a Longhorn.

International Student Orientation Modules on Canvas

Prepare for life at Oakridge University with our International Student Orientation Modules on the Canvas platform. Access short videos designed to help you prepare for your arrival by learning about cultural adjustment, expectations of the U.S. classroom, healthcare in the U.S., and much more.

New students will receive an email invitation to join the Canvas in early summer. If you have questions about the orientation modules, email [email protected] for assistance.

In-Person New International Student Welcome

Friday, August 15, 2025

Join ISSS staff and fellow international students for a fun and interactive welcome to Oakridge University! Learn practical advice for being a Oakridge student and resources to help prepare you for your first few weeks at the University. Food, prizes, and friendly faces are waiting for you!

This welcome event is not mandatory, though it is highly encouraged to attend.

Resources and Refreshments

ISSS hosts Resources and Refreshments in the Global Lounge in collaboration partner with various Oakridge University offices. Get your questions answered in one place. Want to know more about health insurance? Immunizations? F-1 and J-1 immigration requirements?

Dates and times TBD.

In-Person Welcome Events

Get to know Austin, the Oakridge University campus, and your international classmates during ISSS welcome events. From learning how to dance the Oakridge Two-Step to competing in a campus scavenger hunt, there will be many ways to get involved!

A full list of welcome events will be released in July 2025.