The regulations do permit students to study abroad and/or conduct research away from the University, provided that students continue to maintain their registration with the University of Iowa and make academic progress.  Due to rules regarding travel outside of the U.S., these students are advised to discuss their plans with ISSS prior to departure.

• Students who are studying outside of the U.S. in the Spring/Fall semesters must be studying through an official program recognized by Study Abroad and must be administratively registered for that semester full-time i.e. 12 hours for undergraduate students or 9 hours for graduate students.  Students who choose to study through a non-UI program should consult with Study Abroad.  It may be possible to arrange enrollment in a 0 s.h. course under the agreement that the student will transfer in the required amount of hours at the close of the term.  These students should ask to complete a verification form with their Study Abroad advisor who will submit that form to the ISSS.
• Graduate students conducting research abroad or in-absentia from the University of Iowa must maintain full-time enrollment or be authorized for a reduced courseload by ISSS each semester they are absent.  The form should be submitted to the ISSS no later than the second week of the semester.

Note: Occasionally students would like to “study abroad” in the U.S.  This is a gray area in the regulations, and these students must consult with ISSS before finalizing their plans.