International Student Office

Welcome to San Antonio College!

This school is authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant alien students.

International students from around the world find a home at San Antonio College. With a reputation for academic excellence and a supportive learning environment, SAC offers several benefits for those who come here to continue their education, including:

  • Small class sizes.
  • A rigorous English as a Second Language program to prepare students for academic courses.
  • Transfer pathways to a four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree.
  • The opportunity to get one year of work experience through Optional Practical Training when completing an associate degree.

The International Student Office (ISO) is dedicated to helping students achieve their educational goals,  providing a variety of resources to meet the unique needs of international students and helping them discover all that our campus has to offer. We’re here to help you with visa and admission requirements as well as adjusting to student life and life in San Antonio and the United States.

SAC serves more than 18,000 students from its campus in the heart of San Antonio. As the seventh largest city in the United States, San Antonio offers a rich history, a culture of diversity and plenty to see and do.

Services

ISO provides comprehensive support for F-1 visa students, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations and assisting with essential student needs. Our services include:

  • F-1 Visa Compliance & Advising – Guidance on maintaining status, full-time enrollment, travel requirements, and other immigration matters.
  • SEVIS Record Management – Assistance with SEVIS transfers, I-20 issuance, program extensions, and compliance updates.
  • Employment & Work Authorization – Advising on on-campus work, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and economic hardship employment.
  • International Student Orientation – Mandatory sessions covering visa regulations, compliance expectations, and cultural adjustment.
  • Health Insurance Guidance – Information on required medical insurance options for F-1 students.
  • Official Letters & Documentation – Issuing verification letters for Social Security, driver’s licenses, travel, and other official needs.
  • Workshops & Updates – Regular updates on immigration policies, employment options, and student responsibilities.
  • Referrals & Additional Resources – Connecting students with campus services and legal resources when necessary.

Contact Us

International Student Office
Oppenheimer Academic Center (OC) 220
(210) 486-0116 or (210) 486-1720
sac-iso@alamo.edu

Patrice Ballard
International Student Office
Principal Designated School Official (PDSO)
(210) 486-1720

Nastaran Taabodi
Senior Specialist

Fall and Spring Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday (remote services) 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Summer Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday (remote services) 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.