Studying Abroad as a Non-U.S. Citizen

Non-U.S. citizens are welcome to participate in TTU Study Abroad programs, but proper planning is necessary to address the unique concerns that apply to this group of students.  Make sure to start exploring and researching 9 – 12 months before you plan to go abroad to ensure you can get accurate answers for your questions.  

You must verify whether participating on a study abroad program will affect your:

• U.S. student visa status
• U.S. immigration status
• Eligibility to re-enter the U.S. after your program 

The following steps will guide you to the answers you need related to studying abroad with Texas Tech.

• Schedule an appointment with a Study Abroad Counselor and share the following information with them:
  • Your current citizenship status and country of origin
  • Your desired study abroad destination
  • The duration of your preferred study abroad program and the classes you want to take
• Schedule an appointment with your International Students and Scholar Services Office (ISSS) Counselor and complete the following steps:
  • Verify whether studying abroad will affect your U.S. visa/immigration status
  • Confirm all requirements, restrictions, and/or deadlines
  • Ensure that you know about all required documentation you will need to bring with you while studying abroad
  • Please note: Texas Tech University is legally unable to advise current Permanent Residents but we encourage you to seek out an immigration attorney. Additional resources can be found at the USCIS website.
• Verify and prepare to follow any academic requirements while studying abroad.
  • For example, maintaining full-time student status (12 U.S. credits for semester or 6 U.S. credits for summer)
• Research student visa requirements and deadlines for the host country of your study abroad program as well other countries you plan to visit. 
  • Some countries require you to renew your U.S. visa before you can obtain their student visa
  • Renewing your U.S. visa may require returning to your home country either before or after your study abroad program