Life in Iowa is a program designed to assist international students and scholars 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 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!
International Student Hangout: Conversations that Matter promotional image

International Student Hangout: Conversations that Matter

Thursday, March 5, 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...

Free Coffee Hour: DIY Drink Coasters promotional image

Free Coffee Hour: DIY Drink Coasters

Thursday, March 26, 2026 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Enjoy free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and catch up with others after spring break! Plus, make your own drink coaster to take home!

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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

Applying for Curricular Practical Training

Income Tax Basics

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