Life in Iowa is a program designed to assist international students in adjusting to life and the academic system here at the University of Iowa. It includes cultural events and academic sessions, as well as career series.

*All times on schedule are U.S. Central Time. For more information about these events, email isss-peer@uiowa.edu.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Shuhui Lin in advance at 319-335-0335.

Demah AlGheithy jumping for joy on graduation day in front of UI flags

Upcoming Events

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, January 22, 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.
International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, January 29, 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.
International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, February 5, 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.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Workshop promotional image

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Workshop

Thursday, February 6, 2025 5:30pm to 7:00pm
Virtual
Join Life in Iowa and International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) to learn basic information about Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and how to apply for CPT as a graduate or undergraduate student.
International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, February 12, 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.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) Workshop promotional image

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Workshop

Thursday, February 13, 2025 4:30pm to 6:00pm
Virtual
Join Life in Iowa and International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) for a workshop designed to help you understand the Optional Practical Training (OPT) process.
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Resources

Employment Options

Find employment related resources for F-1 students here.

Mental Health Resources for International Students

Access information specific to your needs.

Video Resources

Optional Practical Training

How to create a LinkedIn profile 

How to connect with alumni via LinkedIn

Recurring Events

These events are held yearly.  Keep an eye on the event calendar to see when they are offered. 

  • Applying for Curricular Practical Training (CPT)/Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • Trip to Cedar Rapids
  • Football 101
  • Work Visa Options After Graduation
  • Culture Shock and Reverse Culture Shock