International Admitted & Current Students SAU Tech

Welcome to SAU Tech

Congratulations on your admission to Southern Arkansas University Tech. We are excited to welcome you to our campus community. Now that you’ve been accepted, it’s time to begin the important process of preparing for your arrival and transition to college life in the United States.

For More Information: Call us at 870-574-4558 or email us at admisofc@sautech.edu.

Next Steps for Admitted International Students

To ensure a smooth and successful start to your academic journey at Southern Arkansas University Tech, it's important to begin preparing well in advance of your arrival on campus. As an international student, there are specific requirements and responsibilities you must fulfill to maintain your visa status and make the most of your time at SAU Tech. The checklist below will guide you through the essential steps you need to take, from obtaining your visa to securing housing and registering for classes. ⬇

Steps To Prepare For Attending SAU Tech

Please follow these steps to prepare for attending SAU Tech:

  • Step 1

    Pay SEVIS Fee


    Before you can schedule a visa interview, you will need to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee. You will use the information from your I-20 to pay the SEVIS fee.  Pricing information can be found here.→

  • Step 2

    Complete Your Visa Application


    To schedule your visa interview, you will need to fill out the visa application. Then contact the US embassy or consulate in your country to schedule an interview.

  • Step 3

    Prepare and go to Interview


    Make sure to check the embassy or consulate’s website to see what documents you need for the interview. Also, make sure you are natural, comfortable, and confident during your interview. EducationUSA offers some great advice on how to prepare for your interview.


    Being denied a visa is a possibility and the reason for your denial can be confusing sometimes. Make sure you ask and understand why you were denied a visa.

  • Step 4

    Notify SAU Tech of Interview Results


    When you know your results from your interview, contact the Primary Designated School Official to let us know. If you were approved, we can start processing your student data and make sure everything is ready for your arrival. If you were denied, you may be able to schedule another interview and provide more proof to help support your visa request. Make sure you understand why you were denied.

  • Step 5

    Submit Immunization and Health Insurance Documents


    Immunization records showing proof of two MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) shots are required for all students. Before leaving your country, try to get one or both MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) immunizations. During your first semester at SAU Tech, you will be required to have two, so getting one or both before you arrive will make the process easier for you. Make sure to bring a copy of your immunization records in English with you or send them in advance to the DSO. Expect the costs to be approximately US$20-30 for all shots if you must have both here.


    You will also be required to have a Tuberculosis (TB) skin test upon arrival. Depending on the results of the TB skin test, a second test might be given or a chest x-ray may be scheduled. Any subsequent treatment will be handled by the local health department.


    International students are required to have health insurance to help cover unexpected medical costs that might arise while you are in the U.S. SAU Tech’s international students will be required to purchase insurance through Lewermark for an affordable rate.

  • Step 6

    Submit Placement Scores


    Provide placement exam or placement scores recognized by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ACT, SAT, Accuplacer, ASSET, or Compass) OR be prepared to take a placement test upon arrival. Scores may be faxed, mailed, or scanned and emailed to the DSO.

  • Step 7

    Submit Travel Information


    Once you have your travel information, fill out the International Transportation Arrival Plans Form


    Upon arrival, you will meet with your advisor and register for classes. You must comply with all immigration regulations and carry a program of at least twelve (12) on-campus semester hours each semester of the regular academic year.

  • Step 8

    Register for Classes


    Upon arrival, you will meet with your advisor and register for classes. You must comply with all immigration regulations and carry a program of a least twelve(12) on-campus semester hours each semester of the regular academic year.



  • Step 9

    Payment for Tuition and Fees, Insurance, and Housing Balance (if applicable)


    Full payment for tuition and fees must be made by the first day of classes. SAU Tech offers payment options through eCashier in MyCollege on the SAU Tech website. Payment in full OR a payment plan set up through eCashier is required by the payment due date or you will be dropped from classes.


    Because traveling with large amounts of money is not very safe, tuition and fees can be paid in full by wire transfer or credit card by contacting the Business office or by bank draft made payable to Southern Arkansas University Tech and mailed to the Business office. It is very important to make sure your name and the school-issued student identification number is listed on the information wired to us so that the Business office knows whose student account to deposit the money.

  • Step 10

    The faculty and staff of SAU Tech are pleased with your decision! We look forward to meeting you soon. Please read the information in the International Student Pre-Arrival Handbook and the Parent’s Guide. This information will help you prepare for your arrival in the United States.

More Information

Call us at 870-574-4558 or email us at admisofc@sautech.edu.