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The Texas A&M University student population is a diverse group numbering more than 45,000 individuals.  Nowhere is this diversity more evident than among the international student population.  There are approximately 3,700 students from nearly 130 nations attending the University.  Their presence and integration into academic, community, and student life is essential to the overall vision of International Programs:  Ensuring that all Texas A&M graduates have the experience and skills to excel in the global environment of the 21st century.  As part of this vision, the mission of International Student Services (ISS) is to facilitate the international student’s transition to life in the United States and at Texas A&M, promote interactions between the US and international populations, and provide services necessary to meet the special needs of international students. 

International students begin their studies at Texas A&M wanting guidance as they overcome cultural barriers and gain an understanding of the requirements under which they are pursuing their educational objectives.  They have many questions about US customs and values, government and university regulations, academic issues, campus and community facilities, medical care, banking, shopping, and entertainment.  ISS responds to these questions and serves as an information resource for all partners in the international education process, those both on campus and off campus.

Responding to the needs of international students also means serving as a liaison between the many partners involved in the international education process. ISS staff assists US and foreign government officials, family members, businesses, and faculty and staff from Texas A&M and foreign institutions in coordinating the academic and support services for international students.  From simple activities (such as assisting with money shortfalls through loans and scholarships, or helping faculty members understand how immigration laws impact a Texas A&M international student taking an extra class at Blinn College) to complex situations (such as helping students make contact with family members during civil unrest or return home during emergency situations), ISS links all these partners and provides a support network for them.

Services Available 

The services necessary to accomplish the office mission are as diverse as the student population itself. However, there are six general areas of services available:

• Immigration Services and Advising
• Personal Advising
• Liaison for International Students
• Community and Campus Outreach Activities
• Special Programs for International Students
• Administration of Scholarships, Grants and Loan Programs exclusively for International Students