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Welcome New Students!

We are delighted that you will be joining our international community and want to make your transition to life here as smooth as possible. Now that you have been admitted to the University of Central Arkansas for your academic program, there are steps you should take care of including applying for your student visa and planning for your arrival.

Next Steps

1. Pay your SEVIS Fee & Obtain a Visa

New international students are subject to the SEVIS I-901 fee. Once you receive your I-20, visit the SEVIS I-901 fee payment website to make this payment. The process can seem complicated, so please use our helpful step-by-step guide on our Visa Application webpage.

2. Login to myUCA

myUCA is your direct connection to everything at UCA. You will use this portal to apply for housing, pay your university bill, register for classes, and communicate with your professors. Tip: Make sure to write down your new password once you change it! myUCA Portal Sign-In 

3. Learn about Global Welcome Orientation

New incoming international students are REQUIRED to attend our orientation program, Global Welcome, prior to the start of their first semester. Learn more on our Global Welcome webpage.

4. Book your flight to Arkansas, USA

New students arriving for Global Welcome must arrive at Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, Arkansas by the designated Check-In Day for their first semester with UCA. Check out our Global Welcome webpage for those specific dates. 

5. Apply for Housing & Meal Plan

All incoming freshmen are required to live on campus. The housing application can be accessed through the myHousing portion of your myUCA account. Apply as early as possible for maximum consideration of your residence hall preference and roommate selection! Visit UCA’s How Do I Apply for Housing webpage to learn more about this process.

Meal plans allow you to pay for meals around UCA using your Bear Card. There are many meal plans to choose from, so make sure to look at all your options. Visit UCA’s Meal Plan Options webpage to learn more.

6. Obtain Immunization Records

Two MMR shots are needed. If you do not have these, you will receive your necessary shots during Global Welcome orientation once you arrive on campus. Visit our Immunizations and Health Care webpage for more information.

7. Learn about UCA's Health Insurance

All international students are automatically enrolled in LewerMark Student Insurance upon arriving at UCA. Review our LewerMark Student Insurance webpage for plan details.

Students also have the option of requesting a waiver to use an alternate health insurance policy. Check out our Alternative Insurance Requirements webpage to see if you qualify.

8. Know What To Pack!

We know it is easy to over-pack for a trip. We want to make sure you bring everything necessary for your trip home away from home. Learn about our easy packing list here! View our Packing List webpage for help.

If you have any questions about the pre-arrival process, you can contact us at international@uca.edu