Orientation Information

Graduate Orientation programs vary by entry semester. Please reference the upcoming entry terms below for information on specific orientation programs.

Mandatory Arrival Date:

You are required to arrive in the U.S. by no later than the program start date listed on your I-20. For Spring 2027, the program start date is Wednesday, January 13, 2027.

Upcoming Pre-Arrival Webinars:

ISSO hosts a series of pre-arrival orientation webinars for incoming international graduate students.

Spring Orientation:

ISSO's Spring Welcome Program has not yet been scheduled. More information coming soon.

Pre-Arrival Tasks

Orientation Housing and Dining


If you are arriving to Ames early for departmental orientations or to start a graduate assistantship, you may need to access early arrival housing and dining options. Please review the options below for more information.

Interim Housing - Only Available for Fall Entry Students


International students who arrive early to participate in International Student Orientation can request early move in.

To request early move in, please log into Cystart and complete an Early Arrival Request. Early Move-In Requests become available in Mid-September.

For Spring 2027, you can request early move in for January 10 and 11.

Hotel Options

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 or email isorient@iastate.edu to request the direct booking link.
  • Use the code “International Students and Scholars Office” to get the reduced rate

Currently, the ISSO reduced rate is $109 per night.

Reservations are dependent on hotel availability. The “International Students and Scholars Office” reduced rate does not apply during ISU home football games and graduation.

If you are unable to book at the Gateway Hotel, ISSO recommends booking at the Best Western or Radisson Hotels located nearby, as these hotels are near to campus and located on an easily accessible bus route.

Students Living Off Campus

If you are contracted for an off campus apartment or other living situation, you will need to contact your leasing office directly to learn about early move in options or contract begin dates.

Information regarding spring early meal plans will be available in mid-September.