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 adviser during our virtual and walk-in advising hours.

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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

A couple stands together in a large, open plaza with a historic building and wide staircase in the background under a clear blue sky.

From communist Poland to Iowa City: 2024 International Parents of the Year

Friday, November 15, 2024
International Programs is proud to announce Zbigniew and Dorota Brzus of Bodaczów, Poland, as the 2024 International Parents of the Year. They are being recognized for their extraordinary journey from a small village in communist Poland to becoming successful entrepreneurs and pillars of their community while supporting their son Michal’s dreams of studying and swimming at Iowa.
a sunset over a building

In the news: International photo contest highlights global education at Iowa

Thursday, November 14, 2024
An international regatta on the Grand Canal. A stunning sunset viewed from the Taj Mahal. A professor reciting the Iliad during a visit to an ancient theater in Greece. These are just some of the winning photos of this year's photo contest.
four students standing together holding plates of food

UI to host Fall Break Meal for international students and community members

Monday, October 28, 2024
Join International Programs for a festive Fall Break Meal on November 25, welcoming community members and international students for this shared meal. From 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (CST), attendees can enjoy a traditional holiday feast featuring turkey, vegetarian options, and classic sides in 1117 University Capitol Centre. This annual event fosters a sense of community, allowing diverse voices to come together and share in U.S. holiday traditions. Space is limited, so participants are required to register for their preferred time slot.

Events

Building our Global Community: Developing Your Intercultural Insight (Part 2) promotional image

Building our Global Community: Developing Your Intercultural Insight (Part 2)

Tuesday, December 10, 2024 10:30am to 11:30am
Virtual
Instructors: Pauline Beazer James, Senior Advisor, International Student and Scholar Services, and Shuhui Lin, International Education Program and Student Affairs Advisor, International Student and Scholar Services.      Description: In this two-part interactive class, participants will learn about developing their intercultural insights by exploring the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). The IDI generates an individual profile of “worldview orientation to commonalities and differences...
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Student Listserv

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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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