Dear International Students,
The University of Texas Permian Basin is aware of the decision made by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to modify the regulations related to online courses permitted by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Guidance provided in spring 2020 allowing online courses has been voided. International students may only take one 3-hour online course, and the rest must be face-to-face or hybrid courses. At this time UT Permian Basin plans to offer online, face-to-face, and hybrid courses for the fall 2020, but it is important to note that this could change if local public health conditions shift or if there are new directives from the UT System or state and local officials.
We value the international students in our Falcon community. You are leaders, athletes, and scholars at UTPB, and we are glad you are here. Please know that your progress toward earning your degree at UT Permian Basin is important to us. Currently there are more than 80 UTPB students who are on F-1 visas and an expected additional 35 starting this fall. We will work individually with each of you so that all F-1 visa federal requirements are met with your course schedule.
Campus leaders are analyzing the impact of these temporary regulations on the University’s academic and operational plans for fall semester. In addition, The University of Texas System is working on a coordinated plan and response. We will announce specific plans to address the impact of this new regulation on current international students and outline specific solutions for our students in the coming days.
Our priority is providing accurate information in a timely manner. If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach out to International Student Support Services at 432-552-3602 or by email at international@utpb.edu.
