About OISS
The Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) provides a variety of services and programs to the nearly 2,500 international students and scholars who are members of the University of Iowa community.
As a unit of International Programs under the Office of the Provost, OISS plays a vital role in the globalization of the UI campus through ensuring that cultural and legal barriers to study and research are minimized for these participants in educational exchange.
Mission Statement
The Office of International Students and Scholars of the University of Iowa provides leadership in international education and intercultural learning through services to international students and scholars, their dependents, the University, and the surrounding community.
We enhance the academic, cultural, and social pursuits of our students and scholars through exceptional immigration and personal advising as well as outstanding cross-cultural programming and training.
Student and Scholar Advising
A significant role of the Office of International Students and Scholars is providing information on the legal rights and responsibilities of international students and scholars, as well as assisting them with the inevitable adjustment to the culture of the United States.
OISS assists students and scholars in maintaining the requirements of their immigration status through one-on-one and group advising sessions, workshops, and regular communications on legal issues. This office is also responsible for interaction and reports to SEVIS, the U.S. government’s student/scholar database.
OISS staff members also work with students who are having adjustment challenges, helping them negotiate the complex emotions and anxieties which relate to study in a new culture. Whether it is finding a source of familiar food, assisting students in gaining comfort in the English language, or guiding them through the stages of culture shock, OISS advisers provide this individual support to our community.
Programming and Outreach
Related to the needs addressed by personal advising are the outreach and programming activities of the Office of International Students and Scholars. Both international and domestic students are provided opportunities to share experiences and gain cross-cultural understanding.
Global Buddies pairs new international students with returned study abroad participants and other domestic students for friendship and learning. Café Central, which is co-sponsored with several student organizations, offers relaxing cultural entertainment and refreshments on Friday afternoons. OISS also supports many nationality student organizations in their activities and outreach.
Other specific programming is offered to assist students and scholars in their transition, such as “Life in Iowa,” our on-going orientation program. Workshops on employment, trips to cultural sites in the Midwest, and other activities complement the educational pursuits of international students and scholars.
The reach of OISS extends into the community, working with local organizations such as Friends of International Students and the International Women’s Club who provide extensive services to UI international students, scholars, and their dependents.
Advocacy
Ensuring others understand the value of our international community is on ongoing responsibility of the Office of International Students and Scholars.
A faculty/staff program, Building Our Global Community, provides education on topics that help build comfort level and skills needed to work in today’s multinational environment.
Staff members take leadership roles in organizations such as NAFSA: Association of International Educators, adding a University of Iowa voice to national attempts to advocate for fair and positive government policies. Ongoing communication with elected leaders helps them understand the value of international education for all Iowa citizens.
Most importantly, OISS keeps the University community informed of the impact that international students and scholars have on the academic and social lives of all UI students and helps advocate for a welcoming and supportive campus for all.