International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides leadership in international education and intercultural learning through services to international students and scholars, their dependents, the University, and the surrounding community. 

ISSS is more than the "immigration" office.  Although helping international students and scholars with immigration issues is a significant part of our work, with nearly 9,000 in-person visits to advisors each year and thousands of electronic forms processed, we are also heavily involved in intercultural and adjustment programming for students and scholars, providing cultural competency and intercultural awareness training for staff and faculty, and supporting the Iowa City area community to be a welcoming place for international visitors.

Appointments

Meet with an ISSS advisor during our virtual and in-person advising hours.

Federal Updates on Immigration Regulations

Review any changes that may affect international students in F or J status.

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Current Students (F-1)

Stay informed on current policies and procedures related to maintaining status, travel, inviting family to the U .S., and more.

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Scholars (J-1)

Find information to make it easier for you to focus on your intellectual pursuits.

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Exchange Students (J-1)

If you are participating in an exchange or sponsored program, check out this information specific to your needs.

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New to University of Iowa?

Find information that is geared towards you.  View pre-departure webinars for new international students, learn how to get here, and discover the many academic and cultural resources available to you.  

Get new student information

ISSS News

What intercultural training certificate programs are teaching UI students, faculty, and staff

Friday, August 21, 2026
The University of Iowa’s International Student & Scholar Services offers three intercultural training programs that help students, faculty and staff build the awareness, communication skills and empathy needed to navigate cultural differences and create a more inclusive campus.
Aishani Kundu

Aishani Kundu awarded Peace, Charlie One World Scholarship

Tuesday, May 26, 2026
International Programs at the University of Iowa is pleased to announce that Aishani Kundu, a rising fourth-year double majoring in psychology and English and creative writing, has been named a recipient of the Peace, Charlie One World Scholarship.
dean making a speech on stage with crowd sitting at tables in venue with black and gold balloons

International students recognized for leadership and academic excellence at Iowa

Tuesday, May 19, 2026
International students at the University of Iowa were recognized for their impact on campus during an annual celebration that brought together students, faculty, and staff.

Events

BGC: Introduction to Building Our Global Community promotional image

BGC: Introduction to Building Our Global Community

Wednesday, September 23, 2026 10:00am to 12:00pm
Virtual
This introduction class will introduce the Building Our Global Community program and share an overview of the international student and scholar population at the University of Iowa. Participants will have opportunity to learn about the cultural adjustment experienced by international students and strategies to assist with the transition.
Level Up Your Financial Readiness promotional image

Level Up Your Financial Readiness

Thursday, September 24, 2026 5:30pm to 7:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Join Life in Iowa and International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) for a comprehensive virtual Optional Practical Training (OPT) workshop to learn about eligibility, application steps, and key timelines.
Free Coffee Hour: Career Conversation promotional image

Free Coffee Hour: Career Conversation

Friday, September 25, 2026 1:30pm to 2:30pm
University Capitol Centre
Join us for a free coffee and an informal conversation about career exploration.
View more events

ISSS Monthly Newsletter

Don't miss out on ISSS notices, activities, and opportunities for students and scholars.

Department Listserv

For UI staff and faculty who work with international students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas

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