New International Student Orientation
International Student Orientation Overview
The Global Engagement Center (GEC) welcomes all new international students each semester with a required orientation. This program is delivered in two parts:
Part 1: Virtual Orientation – Blackboard Modules To help you prepare before arriving, you’ll complete a series of orientation modules on SHSU’s virtual learning platform, Blackboard. These modules open 15 days before the in-person orientation and must be completed by the day of orientation to avoid a registration hold.
Part 2: In-Person Orientation Join us on campus to connect with other students, ask questions, and learn about life at SHSU. Lunch is provided!
Accessing the Virtual Orientation in Blackboard
- Log in at shsu.blackboard.com using your SHSU username and password.
- .Under "My Organizations," click "SHSU New International Student Orientation." Don’t see it? Email gec@shsu.edu.
- Click on the "Modules" tab on the left menu.
- Start with Module 1, watch the video, and complete the quiz at the end.
- You must score 80% or higher to unlock the next module.
- Complete all 12 modules and quizzes before the deadline.
Tip: You can complete the modules at your own pace—just finish them by the deadline to stay on track!
Register for Orientation
Date: In-person orientation will occur January 12, 2026, 9:00am-12:00pm
Please Register for Orientation!
Location of Orientation: Sam Houston State University (main campus), Farrington Building Room 105, 1908 Avenue J Huntsville, TX 77341.
Bring these documents to Orientation: Passport with visa, Initial I-20, I-94 record (find here after you enter the U.S.)
Note: Failure to check-in at orientation with your documents may result in termination of your SEVIS record and F-1 status.
Date: To be determined.
Registration will open once date is confirmed.
Location of Orientation: To be determined.
Bring these documents to Orientation: Passport with visa, Initial I-20, I-94 record (find here after you enter the U.S.)
Note: Failure to check-in at orientation with your documents may result in termination of your SEVIS record and F-1 status.
Register
Important Reminders for Incoming International Students
Secure Your Housing Early
Housing in Huntsville fills quickly! We recommend securing housing for Fall 2025 or Spring 2026 as early as possible.
- Apply through the MySam portal
- View on-campus housing and meal plan rates here
- Explore off-campus options here
- Questions? Contact Residence Life or Angela Kizzee at akizzee@shsu.edu / 936-294-1762
Health Requirements
- Submit TB Questionnaire: Will be completed in the Patient Portal if needed
- Fill our Bacterial Meningitis Form (Students under the age of 22): Will be completed in the Patient Portal
- Review SHSU’s health insurance
For any questions regarding either form or the student health insurance plan, please call the Student Health Center at 936-294-2549 or email shc@shsu.edu.
Advising & Enrollment
Schedule your academic advising appointment to remove holds and register for classes.
- Undergraduate: 12 credit hours (max 3 online)
- Graduate: 9 credit hours (max 3 online)
Orientation Requirements
- Bearkat Orientation is required for freshmen and recommended for transfers. Questions? Email orientation@shsu.edu
- New International Student Orientation is mandatory for all F-1 and J-1 students
Contact Us
Visit Us
Physical Address
1908 Avenue J, Farrington Building Office 116 Huntsville, TX. 77341
Google Map Link
Email & Phone
Email Address
gec@shsu.edu
Phone Number
936.294.4737
1908 Avenue J, Box 2150 Huntsville, TX 77341