Bringing the World to UT Dallas—And UT Dallas to the World
The International Center expands global access and opportunities for the UT Dallas community, fostering international education that enriches students, faculty, and staff alike. Through strategic partnerships at home and abroad, we support the success of international students and scholars while creating safe, meaningful ways for the UTD community to engage with peers and colleagues worldwide.
The UT Dallas International Center is composed of five key offices: the Office of International Education, the International Students and Scholars Office, the Office of Immigrant and Citizenship Services, the Passport Office, and International Initiatives. Together, we empower global connections, academic excellence, and cross-cultural understanding.
The International Center is fundraising for 4 key initiatives:
- The UT Dallas International Student Emergency Fund (UTDISEF)
- The Gift of Travel Fund
- The Comet Care Fund (CCF)
- International Education
The UT Dallas International Student Emergency Fund (UTDISEF)
The UT Dallas International Student Emergency Fund (UTDISEF) provides limited financial assistance to UT Dallas international students facing unforeseen circumstances that threaten their ability to remain enrolled and continue their education. This fund addresses financial needs that, if unmet, could impede a student’s educational journey, immigration status, immigration benefits or delay their path to graduation.
Our immediate funding priorities:
- Continue to fund 100% of the USCIS application costs for all students applying for humanitarian relief, including Special Student Relief and Severe Economic Hardship work authorization, as well as USCIS application fees for reinstatement of immigration status.
- Fund the cost of OPT application fees for graduating students who would otherwise not be able to afford it and would miss the valuable opportunity to apply the knowledge they learned in their degree via U.S. work experience.
- Continue to provide assistance to students facing unexpected medical expenses, students facing short term food insecurity, tuition and fee support to prevent dropped courses due to non-payment, and support for students who have been victims of scams and other crimes.
Your support will keep students on track toward graduation and strengthen the international community at UT Dallas so that international students may focus on their goals and contribute to the campus in meaningful ways.
The UT Dallas International Student Application and Scholarship Fund (UTDISASF)
The UT Dallas International Student Application and Scholarship Fund (UTDISASF) provides limited financial assistance to support high-achieving prospective and current international students facing financial hardship when applying to and attending UT Dallas.
This financial support is crucial—many international students struggle with up-front application fees or face difficulties making payments due to international banking challenges. Additionally, access to scholarships is limited, as departmental funds are often restricted. This fund helps remove financial barriers and ensures students have a stronger foundation as they prepare to attend UT Dallas.
The Gift of Travel Fund
The Gift of Travel Fund provides financial assistance to UT Dallas students seeking their first U.S. passport, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of global opportunities. A passport opens doors to study abroad, career development, personal growth, and even reconnecting with family abroad.
Our immediate funding priorities:
- Cover 100% of the $165 application and execution fees for eligible students facing financial hardship.
- Remove financial barriers that prevent students from studying abroad and gaining global experiences.
- Empower students with resources and guidance to help them take the next step in their international education journey.
Our fundraising goal is to fully cover passport application costs for up to 20 students who would otherwise be unable to afford this essential travel document. This support enables students to embrace new opportunities, enrich their education, and broaden their horizons.
Give the gift of travel and help students take their first step toward a world of possibilities.
The UT Dallas OICS Comet Care Fund (CCF)
The UT Dallas OICS Comet Care Fund (CCF) provides financial assistance to immigrant students facing hardships related to their immigration or citizenship status. This fund ensures that students have the support they need to continue their education and succeed at UT Dallas.
Our immediate funding priorities:
- Cover critical immigration application fees for students seeking permanent residency, work authorization, or other legal protections.
- Provide emergency financial assistance to students facing unexpected hardships that threaten their ability to stay enrolled.
- Offer support for students navigating legal or financial barriers related to their immigration or citizenship status.
This fund serves as a lifeline for immigrant students, allowing them to focus on their education and contribute to the UT Dallas community. Your support can make a lasting impact—help us ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Help UTD Students Study Abroad
Studying abroad significantly enhances UTD students' personal and academic growth, and fosters adaptability, language skills, and global awareness.
The Office of International Education is raising funds for these opportunities is essential to make them accessible to all students, regardless of financial background. Investing in international education benefits both the individual and the broader community.
