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.

International student on campus walking and talking

Current Students (F-1)

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

person teaching at front of classroom

Scholars (J-1)

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

students on UI campus with arms around each other

Exchange Students (J-1)

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

students smiling with Herky holding bubble te

 

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

hands in front of laptop

Life in Iowa presents OPT workshop

Monday, July 22, 2024
The virtual Optional Practical Training (OPT) workshop, sponsored by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), takes place on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, from 5 - 6:30 p.m. (CDT).
Coffee Hour

Life in Iowa to host weekly coffee and conversation hour starting Aug. 29

Thursday, July 18, 2024
Starting August 29, 2024, Life in Iowa, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE), invite international students and scholars at the University of Iowa to join them for a weekly coffee hour every Thursday from 2 to 3 p.m. (CT) at T.Spoons coffee shop in the University Capitol Centre.
Akondy graduation photo

Public health alumnus Akondy acknowledges Iowa for support and professional development

Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Sri Chaitanya Krishna Akondy (Master of Public Health '23) was drawn to the University of Iowa for its reputation and high rankings, and believed Iowa would be the perfect place to deepen his knowledge and skills.

Events

Life in Iowa: Museum Scavenger Hunt promotional image

Life in Iowa: Museum Scavenger Hunt

Saturday, August 17, 2024 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Old Capitol Museum
Join Life in Iowa for a scavenger hunt at the Old Capitol Museum to explore Iowa's history, win prizes, and connect with fellow UI students!
Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour

Thursday, August 29, 2024 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting August 29, 2024, Life in Iowa, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE), invite international students and scholars at the University of Iowa to join them for a weekly coffee hour.
Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting August 29, 2024, Life in Iowa, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE), invite international students and scholars at the University of Iowa to join them for a weekly coffee hour.
View more events

Student Listserv

Don't miss out on ISSS activities 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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