About ISSO

Students at computer

Thousands of international students and hundreds of international faculty, staff, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scholars come to the ISU campus each year to learn, teach, and conduct research. Since the first international student enrolled at ISU in 1878, the university has provided programs and services to help international students and scholars achieve their goals and fulfill their dreams.

The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) employs staff with many years of experience in the U.S. and abroad. Staff members provide courteous and timely service, apply a broad range of immigration expertise, and deliver informative programming for international students, faculty, staff, postdocs, visiting scholars, and their families.

ISU is located in Ames, a city with a population of approximately 66,000. You will find Ames in the heart of the state of Iowa in the middle of the United States. Ames is 50 kilometers from Des Moines, Iowa’s capital and largest city, with approximately 212,000 residents. Ames is a safe and beautiful city with many parks, excellent public schools, and friendly people. The long cooperation between ISU and the city of Ames helps maintain a high quality of life for both communities. Ames has been designated an All-American City and was recently ranked as one of the top one hundred best places to live. Awards such as these recognize Ames as a livable, well-managed city with cultural, recreational, educational, business, and entertainment opportunities in a strong community. The Ames city motto is, "The Smart Choice." We think you will agree.

Please contact us if you are considering joining us at Iowa State University or have questions regarding university-related immigration. We look forward to meeting you.