Life in Iowa is a program designed to assist international students and scholars in adjusting to life and the academic system here at the University of Iowa. It includes cultural events and academic sessions, as well as career series.

*All times on schedule are U.S. Central Time. For more information about these events, email isss-peer@uiowa.edu.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Shuhui Lin in advance at 319-335-0335.

Demah AlGheithy jumping for joy on graduation day in front of UI flags

Upcoming Events

Free Coffee Hour: Share-A-Book

Friday, January 30, 2026 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Enjoy free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and start the semester off with fun and fast-paced conversations!

Free Coffee Hour: Shrinky-Dink Keychains

Thursday, February 26, 2026 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Take a break, treat yourself, and enjoy free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate on us! Join us for a relaxing session where you can create shrinky-dink keychains with friends!

Free Coffee Hour: DIY Drink Coasters

Thursday, March 26, 2026 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Enjoy free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and catch up with others after spring break! Plus, make your own drink coaster to take home!

Free Coffee Hour: Pipe Cleaner Flowers

Thursday, April 23, 2026 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Enjoy free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and catch up with others after spring break! Plus, make your own drink coaster to take home!

Join us for the last coffee hour of the semester and enjoy free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate! We’ll spend time hanging out making pipe cleaner flowers you can use to decorate your dorm/apartment/house for the spring.
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Resources

Employment Options

Find employment related resources for F-1 students here.

Mental Health Resources for International Students

Access information specific to your needs.

Video Resources

Optional Practical Training

Applying for Curricular Practical Training

Income Tax Basics

Recurring Events

These events are held yearly.  Keep an eye on the event calendar to see when they are offered. 

  • Applying for Curricular Practical Training (CPT)/Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • Trip to Cedar Rapids
  • Football 101
  • Work Visa Options After Graduation
  • Culture Shock and Reverse Culture Shock