Welcome to Iowa State!
As an incoming international cyclone, you are required to attend ISSO's International Student Orientation. The purpose of this orientation program is to help new international students get acclimated to the campus as well as introduce you to the international community at Iowa State. For Fall 2024, orientation will take place from August 14th to August 22nd.
Save the Date
Reporting Date: Tuesday, August 13th
International Orientation: Wednesday, August 14th to Thursday, August 22nd
Start of Classes: Monday, August 26th
Current Tasks:
- Accept your offer of admission. More information can be found on the Office of Admission's website.
- Register for your NET-ID.
Pre Arrival Planning
Interim Housing
Arriving before your permanent housing is available?
On Campus Interim Housing will be available through the Department of Residence. More information will be provided toward the end of the Spring term.
To Make a Reservation
- Call the Gateway Hotel at 515-292-8600
- Use the code "International Students and Scholars Office" to get the reduced rate
The ISSO rate for the Gateway is $99 per night.
Reservations are dependent on upon hotel availability. The “International Students and Scholars Office” reduced rate does not apply during ISU home football games and graduation.
Alternative and independent arrangements can be made through Airbnb or hotels in Ames.
Transportation to Ames
ISSO collaborates with Executive Express, a local car service company, to provide all incoming international students a FREE shuttle service from the Des Moines International Airport to Ames, Iowa.
Each student can have two pieces of luggage and one lap item when traveling with Executive Express. Students will be charged $15 per bag for each additional piece of luggage. This free ride from Executive Express is only available to new ISU international students, not their family members or returning ISU students.
Booking Instructions will be released toward the end of the spring term.
Additional transportation services such as Uber and Lyft are available at your own personal expense.
Prepare Your Initial Expenses
We recommend bringing sufficient funds to cover your initial expenses for the first three months through traveler’s checks, ATM, or debit/credit cards until you establish a bank account in the U.S. Never carry large amounts of cash with you or in luggage checked in with the airlines.
QUESTIONS?
Please email isorient@iastate.edu and Orientation and Pre-Arrival team will be happy to assist you!