Study at UT Dallas
Welcome to UT Dallas! The University of Texas at Dallas is a rapidly growing public research university that combines innovative programs in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics (STEAM) with highly ranked management programs.
We bring people and ideas together to create the future — ours, yours and the world’s.
U.S. immigration regulations can be complex and confusing, which is why the ISSO is here to help as you begin the journey to become a UT Dallas international student.
Why UT Dallas?
UT Dallas hosts more international students than any other university in Texas. Our team of experienced advisors has the expertise to guide you and help you achieve your personal and professional goals.
Safe Campus
UT Dallas is a safe place to live, learn, and work. UT Dallas has a fully commissioned police department who are dedicated to excellence in upholding and enforcing the law and managing risks to ensure the safety of students, faculty, staff and guests at UT Dallas. UT Dallas Police offer services such as crime prevention, self-defense training, Safe Walk campus escorts and more.
Desirable Location
UT Dallas is located in the vibrant suburb of Richardson, Texas. Richardson is home to numerous telecommunications companies and more than 5,000 businesses have operations within the city’s Telecom Corridor. Richardson is located about 22.5 kilometers (14 miles) from downtown Dallas and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Experience Dallas while receiving an exceptional education at UT Dallas!
Scholarships and International Partnerships
Explore scholarships at UT Dallas. Also, contact governmental and non-governmental organizations in your home countries to request sponsorship to pursue academic degree programs at UT Dallas. For the list of current sponsors for international students, please visit International Sponsored Student Programs (ISSP).
Global Alumni Network
Whether you stay in the U.S., return to your home country, or begin a new international journey, your UT Dallas degree and experience will continue to enrich your life. UT Dallas has more than 100,000 alumni worldwide with alumni chapters in the US and around the world to help you grow your professional network.
Where do I start?
The first step is to gain admission to a UT Dallas program of study. The Office of Admission and Enrollment can assist you with the application process. You can also contact the academic department for more information about the program you’re interested in.
After you are admitted, you will have access to the iComet Portal, where you will apply for your immigration documents.
Student Visa Categories
UT Dallas sponsors two types of student visas. Most international students attend UT Dallas in F-1 immigration status. There are some differences between the F-1 and J-1 visa requirements.
| F-1 | J-1 |
|---|---|
| You will apply for a Form I-20 and an F-1 visa | You will apply for a DS-2019 and a J-1 visa |
| Must show funding for one academic year | Must show funding for entire length of program |
| Funding can come from any combination of sources | At least 51% of total funding must come from an outside source (a source other than personal or family/friend’s funds) |
| No home residency requirement | May be subject to a 2-year home residency requirement |
| F-2 dependents can study part-time | J-2 dependents can study full-time |
| F-2 dependents are not eligible to work | J-2 dependents may apply for work authorization |
| Can work part-time on-campus incidental to status (no authorization needed) | Can work part-time on-campus with authorization from Program Sponsor |
| Can work off-campus with authorization from ISSO (for Curricular Practical Training) and authorization from USCIS (for Optional Practical Training) | Can work off-campus with authorization from Program Sponsor |
People in other visa categories can also study at UT Dallas! Many dependent visa categories, like H4 or L2, allow you to study while you are in the U.S. UT Dallas does not restrict students from studying based on their immigration status. Find out if your visa category allows you to study or work.
The ISSO can also assist you with a change to F-1 or change to J-1 status.
Resources and Support
UT Dallas is incredibly diverse and we have many campus partners to support your needs.
The Intercultural Programs office hosts International Student Orientation, as well as events year round. They also help take the stress out of getting to UT Dallas with Big Howdy, a program run by students, community volunteers, and local churches in partnership with the Intercultural Programs. Big Howdy offers free airport pick-up for new UT Dallas international students.
University Housing can help you find on-campus or off-campus housing.
Explore Richardson and Dallas on the UT Dallas bus line or DART trains.
Get connected with UT Dallas student organizations before you arrive on campus. UT Dallas has many cultural organizations that help our new international students feel at home and get settled.
The UT Dallas Student Counseling Center hosts events specifically for international students, to help students connect with each other and learn how to effectively manage their personal and professional goals.
