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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 this page.

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! Log in here →

3. Learn about Global Welcome Orientation

New incoming international students are REQUIRED to attend our orientation week, Global Welcome. To register, please submit your arrival information (flight tickets, date and time of your travel, etc.) Learn more →

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 appropriate Check-In Day, which is listed here. Learn more →

Free transportation may be arranged for students who provide their arrival information with us. Reserve your spot here! Submit Arrival Information →

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! Apply here →

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. 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. Learn more →

7. Learn about UCA's Health Insurance

All international students are automatically enrolled in LewerMark Student Insurance upon arriving at UCA. Learn more →

Students also have the option of requesting a waiver to use an alternate health insurance policy. Request here → 

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! Packing List →

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