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

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.
Old Capitol

Life in Iowa presents Old Capitol Museum Scavenger Hunt

Thursday, June 27, 2024
Join Life in Iowa at the Old Capitol Museum for a scavenger hunt on Saturday, August 17, 2024. Explore the history of the State of Iowa, the University of Iowa, engage with other students, and win prizes.
Meng first poster presentation

Pioneering wildfire monitoring at NASA: Iowa informatics alumnus Meng Zhou shares his story

Friday, May 31, 2024
Meng Zhou, originally from China, earned his PhD in informatics from the University of Iowa and has embarked on a new role as an assistant scientist at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

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!

Multicultural Showcase

Friday, November 15, 2024 7:00pm
Iowa Memorial Union (IMU)
All are welcome to attend the University of Iowa 2024 Multicultural Showcase, part of the University of Iowa’s (UI) annual celebration of International Education Week (Nov. 18–22).
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

Follow ISSS on social!