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 in-person advising hours.

Federal Updates on Immigration Regulations

Review any changes that may affect international students in F or J status.

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

Group of international student graduates

International Programs to host inaugural celebration honoring international student success

Monday, March 30, 2026
International Programs at the University of Iowa will host the inaugural Celebrating International Student Success event on Friday, May 1, 2026, at ReUnion Brewery in Iowa City, honoring the achievements and contributions of international students and scholars.
Fu-Ching Hsiao and Shu-Mei Chang International parents 2025

2025 International Parents of the Year announced

Monday, November 17, 2025
International Programs is proud to recognize Fu-Ching Hsiao and Shu-Mei Chang of Changhua County, Taiwan, as the 2025 International Parents of the Year.
four students standing together holding plates of food

UI to host Fall Break Meal for international students and Iowa City residents

Monday, November 3, 2025
Join International Programs for a festive Fall Break Meal on November 24, welcoming community members and international students for this shared meal. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (CST), attendees can enjoy a traditional holiday feast featuring turkey, vegetarian options, and classic sides at Old Brick. Space is limited, so participants are required to register for their preferred time slot.

Events

BGC: Mental Health Concerns of International Students and Ways to Support International Students promotional image

BGC: Mental Health Concerns of International Students and Ways to Support International Students

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 10:00am to 11:50am
Virtual
This class highlights how concerns unique to international students impact their mental health.
SCAMO  promotional image

SCAMO

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 5:30pm to 6:30pm
University Capitol Centre
The University of Iowa will host SCAMO, an interactive bingo-style presentation designed to help international students and scholars recognize and avoid common scams.
International Student Hangout: Conversations that Matter promotional image

International Student Hangout: Conversations that Matter

Thursday, April 16, 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...

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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

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