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 virtual and walk-in 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.

View Life in Iowa events
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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. 

Get involved today!
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Guide to Living in Iowa City

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

View guide
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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.

Learn about the programs

Upcoming Events

BGC/BUILD: An Introduction to Federal Regulations Affecting International Students promotional image

BGC/BUILD: An Introduction to Federal Regulations Affecting International Students

Wednesday, September 27, 2023 10:00am to 12:00pm
Virtual
Immigration laws regulate many aspects of international students' lives, including entry to the United States, the conditions under which they may remain in this country and re-enter after traveling abroad, and eligibility for immigration benefits. This session will provide an introductory overview of the application and visa process, foundations of U.S. student immigration law, ISSS responsibilities to the Department of Homeland Security and to the student, and the basic rules that international students must follow to remain in status while studying in the U.S.
Life in Iowa and ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

Life in Iowa and ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour

Friday, September 29, 2023 2:30pm to 3:30pm
Stanley Museum of Art
Starting Aug. 25, Life in Iowa (part of International Student and Scholar Services) and International Student Support and Engagement invite international students and scholars at the University of Iowa to join them for a weekly coffee hour every Friday through Dec. 1!
EAC: Introduction to Engaging Across Cultures promotional image

EAC: Introduction to Engaging Across Cultures

Wednesday, October 4, 2023 3:30pm to 5:00pm
Virtual
This introduction session will introduce the Engaging Across Cultures certificate program and share an overview of the international student population at the University of Iowa. Participants will have opportunity to learn about culture and the cultural adjustment experienced when living in a new culture. Participants will examine their own cultural lens and how it influences their interactions.
Life in Iowa: Work Visa Options After Graduation promotional image

Life in Iowa: Work Visa Options After Graduation

Thursday, October 5, 2023 4:00pm to 5:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Would you like to learn about games in U.S. culture and get to know others in the international student community at Iowa? Join us for game night, which will also include a fun ice breaker, trivia, and pizza!
View more events

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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