Welcome Home to the University at Albany
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) works to help international students and scholars achieve their educational goals and make the most of their time at the University at Albany. We provide resources and information to new and current international students and visiting scholars. Here you'll find information on immigration, life in Albany and in the United States, administrative and academic requirements, employment, housing, insurance and more, plus timely announcements to help you call the University at Albany "home."
You can visit our advisors during walk-in hours without an appointment. Walk-in advising hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 1-3:30pm in Science Library G-40.
Our International Students, By the Numbers
The University at Albany is committed to providing a top-tier learning experience for students worldwide. It's no surprise that so many international students and scholars come to the University at Albany to reach their educational ambitions. The numbers speak for themselves.
Announcements
View our latest newsletter.
Don't Be a Victim
To avoid becoming a victim of a fraud or scam, NEVER provide bank information, credit card details, or payment by unsolicited email or over the phone. US government agencies do not conduct business this way. For more information on how to protect yourself, visit our Don't Be a Victim page.
Applying for Post-Completion OPT?
Students who are graduating and planning to apply for Post-Completion OPT Work Authorization should complete the following steps to apply:
- Watch the required OPT workshop
- Review all instructions on the OPT Request EForm website, including the Supplemental Forms and Instructions
- Submit the EForm to ISSS to request a new I-20 recommending you for post-completion OPT
- File with DHS-USCIS within 30 days of receiving the new I-20 from ISSS recommending you for post-completion OPT
If you have questions please speak with an ISSS advisor.
Meet Our Team
The staff of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) brings nearly five decades of experience to the job of helping international students forge a path to success through higher education. They're here to help you realize your dreams by earning a degree from the University at Albany. Meet the team!
Help an International Student Succeed
International students and scholars fund their studies and research at UAlbany with grants, scholarships and assistantships, or with their own money and financial support from their families.
In a few cases, however, through no fault of their own, excellent international students and scholars who are part-way through their programs at UAlbany find themselves unable to graduate or complete their research without a new infusion of financial support.
These funds are intended to provide emergency help in moments of crisis. Examples of crises include a sudden illness not covered by insurance; the death of a child, parent or financial sponsor; and an economic collapse, natural disaster, or coup d’etat in their home country.
Learn more about various ways you can donate via the mail or by phone, or make your contribution online.
To donate online, please designate your gift to International Students and Scholars 20-50001-00.