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 Spring 2025, orientation will take place from January 12th to January 17th.
Save the Date
Arrival Date: Sunday, January 12th
International Orientation: Monday, January 13th - Friday, January 17th
Start of Classes: Tuesday, January 21st
Next Steps for Spring 2025
- Review your Pre-Arrival Guide.
- Accept your offer of admission. More information can be found on the Office of Admission's website.
- Register for your NET-ID.
- Take the online Introduction to Iowa State Course. (Available 10/23)
Pre Arrival Planning:
Temporary Housing:
Arriving before your permanent housing is available?
ISSO recommends that students in need of temporary housing upon their arrival to Ames make reservations at the Gateway Hotel.
To Make a Reservation:
- Call the Gateway Hotel at 515-292-8600
- Use the code "International Students and Scholars Office"
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 University Transportation Services to provide all incoming international undergraduate students a FREE Iowa State Shuttle from the Des Moines International Airport to Ames, Iowa.
This free ride from University Transportation Services is only available to new ISU international students.
Booking instructions can be found on page 5 of your Pre-Arrival Guide.
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 our orientation and pre-arrival team will be happy to assist you!