New International Student Orientation

📋 Overview

The Global Engagement Center (GEC) holds international student orientation each semester for incoming students. This orientation is required and is separated into two parts:

• Virtual modules on Blackboard (to complete before arrival)
• In-person session on campus (with lunch provided)

Please read the details below to prepare for both parts.

📅 In-Person Orientation

Date: August 22, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Location: Sam Houston State University (main campus), Farrington Building Room 105, 1908 Avenue J, Huntsville, TX 77341.

📌 Please Register for Orientation HERE!

Bring these documents to orientation:

• Passport with visa
• Initial I-20
• I-94 record (access here after entering 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.

💻 Blackboard Orientation Modules

Blackboard module access will be available starting August 1, 2025. Complete all modules by August 20, 2025.

These virtual modules provide essential information and must be completed before attending the in-person session.

• Log in to SHSU Blackboard using your SHSU username and password. (Tip: Take the Blackboard tour!)
• On the Blackboard home page, find the section titled "My Organizations" and click on "SHSU New International Student Orientation".
  If you do not see this, email gec@shsu.edu.
• On the left-hand menu, click the tab labeled "Modules".
• Select Module 1 and watch the video (5–15 minutes).
• At the end of each module, complete the quiz. You must score at least 80% to proceed to the next module.
• Continue through Modules 2 to 12, completing the associated quizzes.

Note: You do not need to complete all 12 modules in one sitting. However, failure to finish them by August 21 will result in a registration hold on your account.