International Students
One of the best things about UAB is the amazing diversity of its students — we are one of the most diverse campuses in the United States. We want you to have every opportunity to succeed in your course work and college life. Here are some tips for you to follow:
- Visit the UAB International Student and Scholar Services website. They have all sorts of forms, guides, and helpful links to make your life easier.
- Don’t be shy. Let your instructors know that English is your second language.
- Take advantage of class study groups. They let you go over material at your pace.
- Record lectures (with your instructors’ permission). Transcribe your recording to notes.
- Meet regularly with your advisor/professors. They are experts and can help!
- Visit the UAB English Language Institute. They will give you assistance with both oral and written English.
- Visit the UAB Writing Center. They have tutors and instructional workshops.
- Consider taking supplemental Graduate School classes for professional development.
- Make friends with fellow graduate students and work in your campus office.
- Frustrated and out of options? UAB counselors are there for you.
Are you an international student interested in studying at UAB?
We invite you to explore all of the programs and services offered to international students. International Student and Scholar Services will be able to advise you about how to apply and who to contact for information. Please visit their website, or send general questions to
And remember — you are not alone! There are other international students/non-native English speakers in just about every class you take! Share your stories and help each other!
Student Groups
Joining one or more student groups will augment your education and provide opportunities beyond those found in the classroom.
Student Social Work Organization (SSWO)
The SSWO's purpose is to stimulate interest in the field of social work within the University and community. We hold regular meetings, some of which feature guest speakers requested by our members. We also sponsor activities and community projects throughout the year and organize student trips to attend area social work conferences.
We invite you to join us even if you are not an accepted member of the program yet. Our officers serve as mentors for students who intend to apply for the program, as well as for students recently accepted to major status. You will get insight into upcoming classes, practicum information, and learn about other aspects of the Social Work program. SSWO publishes a newsletter to inform social work students about upcoming events.
UAB students who wish to join the SSWO must fill out and submit a membership application (PDF) (you can also find printed forms on the information table outside the Department of Social Work office, Humanities Building room 302). The membership fee is $15.00 and may be paid by check made payable to UAB Student Social Work Organization and returned with the completed application.
Please contact Ms. LaToya Melton (
Phi Alpha Honor Society
The Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society encourages a closer bond among students of social work and promotes humanitarian goals and ideals. Phi Alpha fosters high standards of education for social workers and invites into membership those who have attained excellence in scholarship and achievement in social work. UAB's chapter of Phi Alpha is Eta Beta. To qualify for induction, a student must have completed at least nine hours of social work courses and have an overall GPA that is in the top 35% of all Social Work majors in their program. Eligible students are invited to join Phi Alpha and are recognized at the Department's Annual Social Work Day and graduation for their excellence in scholarship. Ms. Quachetta Jones is the faculty advisor for Phi Alpha and may be contacted for questions about membership.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
UAB & College of Arts and Sciences Scholarships
The university and UAB's College of Arts and Sciences offer many scholarships to incoming and current students. You can explore these options and apply through the UAB BSMART scholarship system.