Dear student,

We hope that your semester is going well.

We are pleased to provide you with the following resources that we hope you find beneficial.

Scholarship Information: International Student and Scholar Services Office is currently accepting applications for the Jack and D’Ann Burke International Scholarship and the Cecelia Eichenberg Memorial Scholarship. These scholarships are basically identical, so only one application form is needed. Applications are being accepted through March 27, 2021, for the 2021/2022 academic year. Additional information regarding these scholarships, along with the scholarship application can be found on our website.
For additional information regarding other scholarships offered through the University of Houston, please visit the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.

Tax information: It is important to be aware that as a non-resident student in the U.S., you are legally required to file a tax return if you received U.S. income during 2020. And even if you did not work or receive income in the U.S., you are still obliged to file a form 8843 with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The University of Houston has arranged free access to Sprintax Tax Preparation software for you. This software will guide you through the tax preparation process, arrange the necessary documents, and check if you are due a tax refund.

All you need to do is:

• Register and follow the simple instructions
• Complete the online questionnaire
• Enter your unique code: SpR20UOHS1201F in the box on the 'Review your order' page
• Sprintax will complete your tax return. Finally, once you complete the preparation process using the Sprintax software, you must print, sign and mail your documents to the IRS. Please be sure to keep copies of your tax documents for your records.

The University of Houston-Downtown is offering tax assistance with the virtual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. VITA offers free assistance to people who make $66,000 or less and who would like assistance in preparing their tax returns.

Virtual Spring 2021 Employment Seminar for International Students and Scholars: This seminar will provide you with information regarding employment options and procedures for F-1 and J-1 visa holders. UH Career Counselors will join ISSSO to provide you with tips on better resume writing and interview skills. An immigration attorney will present information on work visa and immigrant visa options. Event info: Friday, February 19, 2021; 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Please mark your calendar and click the link to register: https://www.bigmarker.com/uh-isss/UH-ISSSO-Spring-2021-Employment-Seminar

Financial Workshop: This workshop will connect you with financial aid opportunities available to international students. You will also learn tips for success in applying for scholarships and information on how to access bank services.
Event info: Friday, February 26, 2021; 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Please mark your calendar and click the link to register: https://www.bigmarker.com/uh-isss/UH-ISSSO-Financial-Aid-Workshop-Spring-2021

Please feel free to reach out to our staff at isssohlp@central.uh.edu with any questions that you might have.

Have a great semester!

ISSSO