Arrival and Getting Started
Director's Welcome
Congratulations on making the decision to further your education! We are pleased that you have been accepted to Stephen F. Austin State University!
We believe that Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) is a wonderful place to continue your education. At SFA you can get a great college education in a beautiful, small-town Texas environment. We believe that SFA offers international students a number of advantages. We are small enough to be able to offer individual support to our students. Many professors are happy to meet with you one-on-one to discuss your classes. The library offers many tutoring and help sessions where you can study with fellow students. The Office of International Programs provides services such as a bus to the airport each term, a bus each week to take you shopping, and monthly coffee hours and an international friendship program to help you meet new people. You will have the support that you need to be successful at SFA.
With about 12,000 students on campus, you will have lots of opportunities to meet new friends - both Americans and international students. Currently we have about 150 international students from 35 different countries. International students are very active on campus, participating in fashion shows, food festivals and other cultural events.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. We look forward to helping you to realize your educational goals.
Heather Catton, Interim Director of International Programs
Pre-Arrival Welcome Packet
The Office of International Programs and SFA understand that the transition to a new school and a new culture can be difficult; however, with the right tools and support, our office can help make your transition as easy as possible.
Below you will find a Pre-Arrival Welcome Packet for new international students. Please read the forms carefully.
Fall 2012 Welcome Letter - this letter will give you a brief overview of the information you will receive in this packet.
Fall 2012 Transportation Letter - this letter will provide you with information regarding how and when to register for free transportation to SFA from Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
Fall 2012 Housing Letter - this letter will provide you with information regarding on-campus living requirements and as well as how to apply for housing.
Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination Requirement - this letter will further explain the law that was passed by the State of Texas (SB 1107) that requires all first-time students as well as returning students to have a vaccination against bacterial meningitis at least 10 days prior to enrollment at SFA.
International Student Health Insurance- this document provides details on SFA's health insurance policy for international students.
How to Obtain a U.S. Visa- This document provides information on the process for obtaining a U.S. Visa. The information provides in this document will be valuable in scheduling your visa appointment a U.S. embassy/consulate.
Housing Application (Paper Format) - this form will serve as an alternate means for students to apply for on-campus housing should they be unable to complete the application via internet. Note: All students with internet access are required to complete this process online.
Housing Contract (Paper Format) - this form will serve as an alternate means for students to sign their housing contract, should they be unable to complete it via internet. Note: All students with internet access are required to complete this process online.
Housing Deposit Payment Form - this form will serve in conjunction with the Housing Application. Should any student be unable to apply for houisng online, they may use this form along with the paper Housing Application in order to make a deposit payment to the Business Office. Note: If you have internet access, you will apply and pay your housing deposit online.
Fall 2012 Confirmation of Attendance - this form is used to help SFA and the Office of International Programs prepare for you arrival and make accomidations in regards to new student orientation.
SFA Campus Map - please use this map to help you find your way around your new campus. The office of International Programs in highlighted for you. We are located in the Vera Dugas, Liberal Arts North Building, on the 4th floor, room #402. We look forward to meeting you.