Find the support and guidance you need

Whether you’re new to Iowa or nearing graduation, our staff are dedicated to enhancing the academic, cultural, and social pursuits of our students through exceptional immigration and personal advising. Learn how we can help support your success both inside and outside the classroom.

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F-1 Students

As an international student pursuing a full course of study at the University of Iowa, there are a lot of resources available to help you navigate your way through academic pursuits and living in Iowa. In our F-1 student section, you’ll find information related to academic and cultural resources, employment options, maintaining your status, and more. We are so happy to have you here!

J-1 Students

As a student participating in an exchange or sponsored program, you no doubt want to make the most of your experience here at Iowa. In our J-1 student section, you’ll find information on adjusting to life in Iowa, academic resources, maintaining your status, and more. Welcome!

Appointments

Meet with an ISSS adviser during our advising hours.

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Life in Iowa

This program is designed to assist you in adjusting to life and the academic system here at Iowa. Don't miss these cultural events, academic sessions, and career series.

members of the iPeer mentorship program

iPeer Network

The iPeer Mentorship Program pairs new international students (mentees) with returning international students (mentor) to provide support to new international students for their transition and personal development, as well as to empower them to become leaders on campus. 

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Guide to Living in Iowa City

This guide is packed full of good advice and recommendations for living in IC. 

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Intercultural Training

International Student and Scholar Services hosts a number of intercultural training programs, many of which are geared toward undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.

Upcoming Events

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International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, April 2, 2025 11:30am to 12:30pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting Jan. 22, 2025, 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 Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at T.Spoons coffee shop in the University Capitol Centre. Enjoy a (free!) coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and engage in casual conversations with students, staff, and campus and community...
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Mental Health Around The World

Wednesday, April 2, 2025 2:00pm to 6:00pm
Iowa Memorial Union (IMU)
Join us on Wednesday, April 2, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the IMU Black Box Theater for Mental Health Around the World: Journey Through Your Emotions! This interactive event invites you to explore diverse cultural perspectives on mental well-being, engage in meaningful self-discovery, and connect with others through global mental health practices.Kick off the day with the Mental Health Awareness Walk at 1 p.m. in Hubbard Park before immersing yourself in an afternoon of reflection, learning, and...
Engaging Across Cultures: Navigating Intercultural Conflicts promotional image

Engaging Across Cultures: Navigating Intercultural Conflicts

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 3:30pm to 4:30pm
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 session, participants will explore the four intercultural conflict styles using the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory (ICS). The ICS is an 18-item assessment that measures individuals’ core approaches to communicating about differences...
Building our Global Community: Mental Health Concerns of International Students and Ways to be an Ally to International Students promotional image

Building our Global Community: Mental Health Concerns of International Students and Ways to be an Ally to International Students

Wednesday, April 9, 2025 10:00am to 11:50am
Virtual
Instructors:  Huan-Chung Scott Liu, PhD, Staff Psychologist at University Counseling Service (UCS) and Tianyi Xie, PhD, Staff Psychologist at University Counseling Service (UCS) Description: This session highlights how concerns unique to international students impact their mental health. These concerns can affect international students’ transition to the University of Iowa, their functioning on campus, and their broader adjustment to the United States. We will explore how the forbearance...
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Employment Tips for International Students

The Pomerantz Career Center has a special page dedicated to international students. 

View employment tips

COVID-19 FAQs

Get answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19, specifically as it relates to international students and scholars.

Read FAQs

Mental Health Resources for International Students

Access information specific to your needs

View resources

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