Welcome
This section of our website is designed to provide information to staff, faculty, and university offices serving international students and scholars. If you have questions related to these topics, please contact International Student and Scholar Services.
Resources
This section assists those who work with international students in an academic capacity, including professors, instructors, and academic advisors.
Employment and International Students
F-1 and J-1 students or scholars and their F-2/J-2 dependents are subject to limitations on their ability to work in the U.S. This resource serves as a guide.
Cultural Training for UI Departments
International Student and Scholar Services, in conjunction with UI Learning & Development, offer workshops on skills and insights useful to faculty and staff as they seek to educate and serve our international community.
Learn about eligibility and host department responsibilities.
Student, Staff, and Faculty Recognition
International Student and Scholar Services would like to recognize UI staff, faculty, and students who have completed any of our several certificate programs.
ISSS Department Listserv
Ideal for those who interact with international students and scholars in F-1 or J-1 status.
Student/Scholar Distinctions
F-1 Student
The F-1 nonimmigrant category was created by 101(a)(15)(F) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. An F-1 student is a nonimmigrant who is pursuing a full course of study to achieve a specific education or professional objective at an academic institution in the United States [U.S.]. International students in F-1 status make up the majority of international students in most academic and language programs at the University of Iowa and in the U.S.
J-1 Student
The J Exchange Visitor category was developed to "increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by means of education and cultural exchanges." Students in J-1 are often part of an exchange agreement, or may be participating in a program funded by the U.S. government, foreign government, or international organization.
J-1 Scholar
The UI hosts nearly 400 J-1 scholars annually, who come to the university for research, teaching, observation, and other professional activities. Note that the University’s J-1 program does not allow participants to undertake medical residencies or other advanced formal medical education. Individuals interested in such activities should contact Graduate Medical Education, which has responsibility for foreign medical residents and fellows at UIHC.
Faculty and research professionals who wish to pursue eligibility for longer term temporary worker immigration status should contact Faculty and Staff Immigration Services which processes applications for temporary H-1B, O-1 and TN immigration statuses as well as permanent residence for faculty and professional employees.
Assessments and Surveys
View the results from various assessments and surveys conducted by ISSS and other entities regarding our international students.
ISSS Advising Hours
Students will see the advisor on duty on a first-come, first-served basis. We ask that faculty and staff not direct students to come speak to specific ISSS staff members. The advisors on duty will assess the situation and provide assistance or involve other staff if necessary.