INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
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3 Table of Contents 5 | Colleges 6 | Visit Campus 7 | Undergraduate Students 8 | Important Dates 9 | Admissions 11 | Student Experience 12 | Scholarships, Assistantships, and Employment 13 | Cost Calculator 14 | Residence Life 15 | Student Life 16 | Student Services 17 | First-Year Experience (FYE) 18 | Student Support 19 | Graduate Students 20 | Admissions 21 | Cost Calculator 22 | Professional Development 23 | Services and Support
24:1 Student to Faculty Ratio
316 Acre Campus
240+ Student Organizations
College of Arts and Media
shsu.edu/CAMdegrees
College of Business Administration
shsu.edu/COBAdegrees
College of Criminal Justice
shsu.edu/CJdegrees
College of Education
shsu.edu/COEdegrees
College of Health Sciences
shsu.edu/COHSdegrees
90+
Undergraduate Degrees 60+ Master’s Programs
Scan to view a full list of degrees.
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
shsu.edu/CHSSdegrees
College of Osteopathic Medicine
shsu.edu/COMdegrees
College of Science and Engineering Technology
shsu.edu/COSETdegrees
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“THE MEASURE OF A LIFE IS ITS SERVICE”
Campus Tours
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You can visit campus in person or virtually. SHSU has specialty Spanish and transfer tours available. Schedule your tour online today!
Saturday@SAM
SHSU offers campus preview days in both the fall and the spring. Learn more and sign up online at shsu.edu/saturday.
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shsu.edu/visit
seesam@shsu.edu
936.294.1844
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Start Your JourneyUndergraduate Students
For more than 140 years, SHSU has been preparing students for meaningful lives of achievement. Its motto, “The Measure of a Life is its Service,” resonates among its 21,000+ students and echoes across eight colleges and beyond.
shsu.edu/beabearkat/international-journey
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Important Dates
Admissions
Housing
Advising | Registration October 1
Housing Application Opens to New Students
March 1-May 1
Roommate Selection Available
July 1
Admissions Application Opens shsu.edu/apply
August 18-20
Student Move-in
February Advising Opens shsu.edu/samcenter
April Registration Opens
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International Admissions
Stay on Track
Document Checklist
Decide on program of study at shsu.edu/academics
Complete application on Apply Texas
Pay the $90 nonrefundable application fee at goapplytexas.org.
Submit application materials depending on your intended degree at shsu.edu/admissions/international
Graduate applicants should review their program website for additional application requirements.
Receive an admissions decision
Documents for the I-20 are requested
• Copy of passport
• Financial support documentation
• Additional documents may be required
Apply Texas application
I-20 submitted by email (or after the SEVIS record is transfered if already in the U.S.)
I-20 form
Copy of passport
Financial support documentation
Student visa
Pre-arrival documents will include information on applying for a study visa and international student orientation.
Apply for a student visa and schedule your visa interview Review admitted student checklist
Register for international student orientation and airport pick-up.
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Named for Sam Houston, Texas’ greatest hero, Sam Houston State University continually strives to honor its historical roots through academic excellence that includes exceptional teaching from faculty. For over 140 years, SHSU has been preparing students for meaningful lives of achievement. Its motto, “The measure of a Life is its Service,” resonates among its 21,000+ students and echoes across eight colleges and beyond its Huntsville roots.
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Student Experience
gec@shsu.edu | shsu.edu/beabearkat/international-journey | 936.294.4737
SHSU international students come from over 50 countries and contribute to the vibrancy of the campus community through their cultural diversity, knowledge, and experiences.
There are multiple benefits in the application process for international students, including an international admissions page, English test waivers (for select countries), possibility to establish residency for in-state tuition, and option to request a free internal evaluation of foreign transcripts (graduate applicants only).
Prospective international students will have access to knowledgeable and dedicated staff who will serve as advisors through not only the application and immigration process, but also once students arrive on campus and as they are completing their academic program at SHSU.
SHSU international students pursue a wide range of academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level and are offered work opportunities across many areas of campus. Students will have access to an advisor (designated school official) who can assist with important requests, such as curricular/optional practical training, obtaining a social security number or driver’s license, issues regarding their immigration documents, and both academic and cultural adjustment.
In addition to a range of extracurricular experiences available to all students, international students will have opportunities to join the International Student Organization, become an International Bearkat Ambassador, participate in International Week, attend educational trips in Huntsville and Houston, and be featured in International Student Spotlight.
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Scholarships
shsu.edu/scholarships | 936.294.1774
SHSU has a variety of scholarships that are awarded for achievement in academics, leadership, and extracurricular activities. To review your scholarship eligibility, visit the Scholarship4Kats portal.
Assistantships
Graduate, teaching, and research assistantships are available in most departments. If awarded, you may qualify for in-state tuition and other benefits. Contact your graduate program advisor for availability information.
Employment
shsu.edu/careersuccesscenter
International students are eligible to work while engaged in academic study with certain conditions. A variety of campus jobs, including graduate assistantships, are available to admitted students through the Handshake portal.
Bearkat Transfer Scholarship
The Bearkat Transfer Scholarship is offered to incoming transfer students who meet certain credit and GPA requirements. Awards will be offered on a first-come, first serve basis. No application is required other than applying for admission to SHSU.
Annual Good Neighbor Scholarship
gec@shsu.edu
The annual Good Neighbor Scholarship is available to students who are residents of Western Hemisphere nations and who meet a GPA requirement. Selected students qualify for tuition exemption for the upcoming academic year.
Non U.S. Citizens
If you’re a Texas resident and not a U.S. citizen, or you’re ineligible for Federal Aid, the state of Texas offers the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA).
Learn more about the TASFA by visiting shsu.edu/tasfa.
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Cost Calculator
shsu.edu/cost | 936.294.1083
The SHSU Cost Calculator provides an estimate of what you will pay for one semester at SHSU based on credit hour, housing, meal, and parking permit selections.
It is an estimation only and does not reflect financial awards such as scholarships, grants, or loans.
*Based on Fall 2022/Spring 2023 rates and subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit shsu.edu/cost.
Tuition calculation includes mandatory student fees. Living calculation includes general on-campus housing rate and standard meal plan. Expenses calculation includes mandatory international student health insurance ($3,250).
13 Tuition Living General Expenses TOTAL $9,530 $9,000 $4,338 $22,868 $19,332 $9,000 $4,338 $32,670 Undergraduate Resident Undergraduate Non-resident
Residence Life
shsu.edu/reslife
SHSU offers a variety of on-campus living options to thousands of Bearkats, including female and coed residence halls, apartments, and living communities for honors students and specific majors. All first-year students who have been out of high school for less than a year are required to live in university residence halls and participate in the university meal plan. Once accepted to SHSU, you may submit your application for housing. Floorplans and photos of residence halls are available online.
Amenities
Our residence halls are fully furnished and offer many amenities for your convenience.
Mail Center
Vending Machines
Laundry Facilities
Wi-fi
Scan for more info.
October 1
Housing Application Opens to New Students
May-June
Room Self Selection in Progress
March 1-May 1
Roommate Selection Available
August 18-20
Student Move-in
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17 NCAA Division I Athletic Teams
150,000 Square-feet of State-of-the-art Fitness & Athletic Facilities
Rec Sports
recsports.shsu.edu
The Recreational Sports Center has everything you need to keep yourself fit while at SHSU. We offer fitness and nutrition classes, a full weight and cardio area, a climbing and bouldering wall, a swimming pool, an indoor track, intramural and club sports, as well as plenty of space for basketball, volleyball, and more! Membership is included with your tuition and fees as a full-time student.
Student Organizations
shsu.edu/orglink
Social networking, resume building, leadership development, and new friendships—these are just a few of the benefits that come with being involved at SHSU.
Bearkat Camp
shsu.edu/bearkatcamp
As an incoming freshman, you will have the opportunity to take part in a three-day, two-night Bearkat Camp to experience the spirit, pride, and traditions that have been a part of SHSU since 1879.
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190+ Students Study Abroad
Each Year in 14+ Countries
21,000+ SHSU Students
Career Success Center
shsu.edu/careersuccesscenter | 936.294.1713
SHSU’s Career Success Center offers career-focused services, including resume building, mock interviewing, and job/internship searching. The Career Success Center hosts career fairs and professional training events on branding, professionalism, and interviewing.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an integral part of an established curriculum related to your program of study. This can be in the form of an internship, practicum, or in the case of graduate and doctoral students, thesis and dissertation courses taken for course credit.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
As an F-1 student, you may apply to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for authorization for 12 months (up to 36) of temporary employment for Optional Practical Training (OPT). The employment should be directly related to your major area of study. To be eligible for OPT, you must be in legal F-1 status at the time of application and have completed one academic year as a full-time student (not necessarily in F-1 status).
Study Abroad
shsu.edu/study-abroad
Students can study abroad at one of our exchange universities, through an affiliated accredited organization, or as part of a faculty-led course.
National Student Exchange
shsu.edu/nse
The National Student Exchange is an academic program where you can spend a semester or full year studying at another member campus and continue to make progress toward your SHSU degree while paying SHSU tuition.
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First-Year Experience Program (FYE)
shsu.edu/fye
First-Year Experience includes a variety of courses and support services designed to help first-year students. Find support in one of our programs:
� UNIV 1101 First-Year Learning Communities
� Peer Mentoring
� SHSU Common Reader Program
� Forward Program
� National Honor Society for First-Year Success (Alpha Lambda Delta)
� New Student Convocation
The Elliott T. Bowers Honors College
shsu.edu/honors
The Honors College offers intellectually stimulating academic, cultural, and social experiences that emphasize undergraduate research and encourage personal and professional growth. Honors also offers opportunities and funding for undergraduate research and study abroad.
International Student Orientation
shsu.edu/international-orientation | 936.294.1782
The Global Engagement Center assists you as you become part of the Bearkat family. GEC staff will help you transition from your home country to SHSU and provide opportunities to connect with other future Bearkats. All incoming international students are required to attend an orientation session.
Student Money Management (SMM)
shsu.edu/smm | 936.294.2600
SMM offers personal, one-on-one coaching sessions to assist with managing your personal finances. This will help you to understand fee statements, financial aid packages and refunds, reduce student debt, and navigate the process of student loan repayment.
Student Advising and Mentoring Center (SAM Center)
shsu.edu/samcenter | samcenter@shsu.edu | 936.294.4444
The SAM Center’s academic advising services help you develop and implement an academic plan by providing guidance and connecting you to resources. The SAM Center offers appointments in-person and via Zoom.
The Graduate School at SHSU encourages the discovery of leadership abilities, building relationships with mentors, and creating opportunities for future development.
Start Your Journey Graduate Students
shsu.edu/thegraduateschool
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Apply
shsu.edu/graduate
Review graduate programs
Locate your program of study at shsu.edu/academics for application requirements and deadlines.* Complete the Admissions application at shsu.edu/apply Pay the $90 non-refundable application fee.
Create your Self Service Center account
Upload your materials
Upload additional application materials as required by your program in the SHSU Self-Service Center. See your program of study for specific submission deadlines.
*International applicants are required to submit additional materials. Visit shsu.edu/international for more information.
Admissions Application Deadlines
August 1
Fall Deadline
December 1
Spring Deadline
May 15
Summer Deadline
*Some graduate programs may have earlier application deadlines.
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Cost Calculator
shsu.edu/cost | 936.294.1083
The SHSU Cost Calculator provides an estimate of what you will pay for one semester at SHSU based on credit hour, housing, meal, and parking permit selections.
It is an estimation only and does not reflect financial awards such as scholarships, grants, or loans.
*Based on Fall 2022/Spring 2023 rates and subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit shsu.edu/cost.
Tuition calculation includes mandatory student fees. Living calculation includes general on-campus housing rate and standard meal plan. Expenses calculation includes mandatory international student health insurance ($3,250).
21 Tuition Living General Expenses TOTAL $8,666 $9,000 $4,338 $22,004 $16,010 $9,000 $4,338 $29,348
Graduate Resident Graduate Non-resident
ROAD to PhD Program
The Resource and Outreach for Academic Diversity (ROAD) program provides networking and academic success training for minority doctoral students to build a comprehensive plan of research and professional development. All program participants receive scholarship funding and other program incentives annually.
ASPIRE Program
The Academic Success Program in Research Empowerment (ASPIRE) program provides first-generation and minority graduate students with professional development, academic success seminars, and faculty mentoring experiences. Program participants receive scholarships each semester, as well as textbooks, and other program incentives.
Career Mentoring
The Graduate School offers opportunities for mentorship from faculty advisors, peers, and the Career Advisory Board members.
GUIA
The Graduate/Undergraduate Instructor Academy is a professional development event designed to aid research, graduate, and teaching assistants with instructional training and resources.
Professional Development
Our professional development series aims to help you confidently venture into a competitive academic program or professional work environment after completing your program. We offer a variety of topics including:
Strategizing job searches
Interview techniques
Salary negotiation
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Services and Support
shsu.edu/thegraduateschool
At The Graduate School, we believe that building a community of support is important to our graduate students. Our community goes beyond academics to include the development of professional skills and mental and emotional strength. We encourage the discovery of leadership abilities, building relationships with mentors, creating opportunities for future development, and much more. We believe that success begins with academics and ends with the whole person.
Academic Support
We are committed to assisting graduate students during their academic journey.
� The Graduate Computer Lab and Student Lounge are spaces that provide resources for research, exam review, presentation or project prep, career-oriented tasks, and general community. The lab and lounge are equipped with computer stations, basic school supplies, free printing and scanning, and comfortable workspaces.
� Thesis/Dissertation Support includes numerous resources during the thesis dissertation writing process. The Graduate School oversees and implements the thesis dissertation policies, guidelines, and submission process.
� Thesis Boot Camp provides support to master’s scholars through the various phases of their thesis or capstone projects. This event is designed for participants to work with experienced faculty and support staff for personalized coaching, intensive writing blocks, intentional goal setting, and individualized writing plans.
� Dissertation Boot Camp allows doctoral scholars to partner with faculty for coaching, intensive writing sessions, and creating individualized writing plans.
� K.A.T.C.H. (Kattributes. Academic Support. Toolkits. Community. Holistic.) sessions are accountability and goal-setting meetings where students support each other when studying for an exam, working on a paper, or editing a dissertation.
Request Information
shsu.edu/beabearkat
Global Engagement Center
1908 Avenue J
Box 2150
Huntsville, TX 77341-2150
Texas State University System Board of Regents
Duke Austin Chairman, Houston
Garry Crain First Vice Chairman, San Marcos
Alan L. Tinsley Second Vice Chairman, Madisonville
Charlie Amato Regent, San Antonio
Sheila Faske Regent, Rose City
Dionicio (Don) Flores Regent, El Paso
Nicki Harle Regent, Baird
Stephen Lee Regent, Beaumont
William F. Scott Regent, Nederland
Gabriel Webb Student Regent, The Hills
#beabearkat | shsu.edu