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.

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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. 

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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

Engaging Across Cultures: Introduction to Engaging Across Cultures promotional image

Engaging Across Cultures: Introduction to Engaging Across Cultures

Wednesday, October 1, 2025 3:00pm to 4:30pm
Virtual
Instructor: Brandon Paulson, Associate Director, International Student and Scholar ServicesDescription: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...
Free Coffee Hour: Self-Care DIY promotional image

Free Coffee Hour: Self-Care DIY

Friday, October 3, 2025 1:30pm to 2:30pm
University Capitol Centre
Take a break, treat yourself, and enjoy free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate on us!
Building our Global Community: An Introduction to Federal Regulations Affecting International Students promotional image

Building our Global Community: An Introduction to Federal Regulations Affecting International Students

Wednesday, October 8, 2025 10:00am to 12:00pm
Virtual
Instructors: Pauline Beazer James, Senior Advisor, International Student and Scholar Services, and Kevin Roiseland, Senior Advisor, International Student and Scholar ServicesDescription: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 such as employment and extension of stay. This session will...
STS/BGC: Supervising International Students promotional image

STS/BGC: Supervising International Students

Tuesday, October 14, 2025 9:30am to 11:00am
Virtual
Instructors: Shuhui Lin, International Education Program and Student Affairs Advisor, International Student and Scholar Services, and Brandon Paulson, Associate Director, International Student and Scholar ServicesCross-listed with Supervising Today’s StudentsDescription:Will you be supervising international student employees? If so, this course if for you. International students are a tremendous resource to our campus. Awareness of both the benefits and challenges of cross-cultural supervision...
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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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