UNT International Affairs — Local services in Denton

DisClaimer: I feel sorry to leave a negative review, because I am usually a quite positive person and I always give people the benefit of the doubt.

However, I feel the need to let international students (who plan to come to UNT) know that the international center here is terrible, and you’ll need to prepare for the worst.

First, most requests will not be on time; prepare for them to ignore you and/or mistake information. For example, I recently requested an I-20 extension. Not only did the front desk lady told me the wrong steps (which caused rejection and waste of time), one of the forms that I uploaded was somehow missed by the staff - I’ve already uploaded the proper form only to receive their email asking for the same thing. Oh, of course that email was send right at the time it was closing for the day.

Second, communication is difficult. Usually, no one will pick up the phone - prepare to go there in person. There were other online request that was simply ignored by them, and I’ve seen the front desk people being offended if students question their negligence or misinformation. I have witnessed arguments in the office.

Third, most information is not up to date. For example, during Covid, the international center did not send out proper announcement regarding travel restrictions. I had to figure everything out though governmental websites or the international center websites from other institutions.

Overall, be prepared to encounter some sort of difficulty every time you go there (it honestly is surprising to me in the sense that this place has a superpower of making mistakes on a regular basis); be very patient and always make sure you have more than enough time to do every little thing. Emergency service and time-sensitive situations will not work...

Worst department. No communication between department people, they are confused themselves, they make you confused too. Wouldn’t pick up call. No sense of accountability whatsoever. Telling me to ask for an i20 by December 8 (deadline) on December 23. If other person gets frustrated they have this excuse, “Ohh, we have to deal with so many people.” Then hire more people, or only accept number of people you can handle each...

I recently graduated. International affairs have been great throughout the journey! I see that others have had their bad experiences based on the reviews. I do know that complications can occur with all the paperwork, however the international center is always there do give you a helping hand and support, but at the end you have to be vigilant and smart enough to do your own tasks. Thank you UNT for being such...