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

International Student Hangout: Conversations that Matter promotional image

International Student Hangout: Conversations that Matter

Thursday, February 12, 2026 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Iowa Memorial Union (IMU)

This conversation-based hangout is designed for international students who want to connect and share experiences and perspectives on topics shaping our world and campus life. There are three hangouts in this series, and all offer a welcoming space to practice asking thoughtful questions, to engage in respectful dialogue, and learn from each other’s experiences.

Whether you want to speak, listen, or simply be part of the discussion, you’re invited to join us for meaningful conversations in a...

Optional Practical Training (OPT), work authorization session for international students promotional image

Optional Practical Training (OPT), work authorization session for international students

Thursday, February 12, 2026 5:00pm to 6:30pm
Virtual

Join Life in Iowa and International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) for a comprehensive virtual Optional Practical Training (OPT) workshop to learn about eligibility, application steps, and key timelines. The event will kick off with an introduction to what OPT is and a live Q&A segment with ISSS Senior Advisor Kevin Roiseland.

Whether you’re a first-year student or heading toward graduation soon, we invite all international students to join this event.

This link to join will become active the...

Life in Iowa: Field Trip to UI Museum of Natural History

Saturday, February 21, 2026 10:30am to 12:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History

New to Iowa or curious about its natural history? Come explore the University of Iowa’s Natural History Museum with Life in Iowa, International Student and Scholar Services, and the Graduate Success Center!

Travel back 500 million years to discover what Iowa was like long ago and visit galleries featuring plants and animals from around the world. Feeling adventurous? Complete a scavenger hunt for a chance to win a prize! And don’t forget to snap a photo with Rusty, Iowa's famous giant sloth.

This...

Free Coffee Hour: Shrinky-Dink Keychains promotional image

Free Coffee Hour: Shrinky-Dink Keychains

Thursday, February 26, 2026 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Take a break, treat yourself, and enjoy free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate on us! Join us for a relaxing session where you can create shrinky-dink keychains with friends!
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Employment Tips for International Students

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

View employment tips

Mental Health Resources for International Students

Access information specific to your needs

View resources

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