Prior to arrival, you will likely receive many communications from ISSO with information regarding pre-arrival information and upcoming orientation programs. If you have missed an email or would just like to review, you can find already sent communications below.
Hello International Cyclone!
If you are an International Graduate Student that will NOT be attending Iowa State University, please let us know so that we can remove you from these communications.
The Spring 2026 semester is fast approaching! Have you looked through your Pre-Arrival Guide yet? Before arriving on campus, please review your Pre-Arrival Guide carefully as missing a step could delay your enrollment at Iowa State. It is in your best interest to work through the listed steps as soon as possible to ensure you have enough time to complete all the required activities and tasks as new international students!
You will likely need to plan for temporary housing accommodation once you arrive in Ames. ISSO recommends students make a reservation at the Gateway Hotel or nearby hotels as there is bus access to campus from this area.
To make a reservation at the Gateway Hotel, please use the Gateway Hotel Reservation Link. (please email isorient@iastate.edu for this link)
Alternative and independent arrangements can be made through Airbnb or Hotels in Ames.
Spring 2026 meal plans begin on Friday, January 16. As you will be arriving prior to the contract begin date, you will need to plan on making alternate arrangements until your contract begins. Please Note: ISU Dining is now cashless, payment by card is required.
Dining Dollars can be purchased through your ISU Dining account and are accepted at all ISU Dining locations. You can begin using any Dining Dollars on your account once you’ve collected your University ID Card.
Open Dining Locations can be found here.
ISSO Airport Shuttle
ISSO collaborates with University Transportation Services (UTS) to provide a one-time complimentary shuttle for incoming international students. For Spring 2026 entry students, we can provide this shuttle for the entire entry period, with one restriction. UTS cannot transport dependents under 18 years of age. If you are traveling with dependent children, please refer to the other options section.
To request a shuttle, please submit the following form:
Request Your Shuttle (please email isorient@iastate.edu for this link)
Please submit this form at least 3 business days prior to your arrival, so we have adequate time to arrange your shuttle or assist you with other options.
Other Transportation Options
Private car options from the Des Moines International Airport are also available.
Please contact shuttleservices@iastate.edu for assistance with additional transportation options.
Important Reminders:
You need to arrive in Ames, Iowa by your mandatory arrival date of Wednesday, January 14, 2026. However, ISSO recommends you arrive at least 1 week early to complete all orientation activities, placement examinations, and any requirements set by your academic department. If you have an emergency and are unable to arrive in Ames by January 14, you must gain approval from your academic department and contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@iastate.edu to receive a late arrival later.
If you have any questions, please email us at isorient@iastate.edu.
We look forward to meeting you on campus!
Go Cyclones!
Hello International Cyclone!
If you are an International Graduate Student that will NOT be attending Iowa State University, please let us know so that we can remove you from these communications.
Congratulations on your acceptance to Iowa State University! We are excited to welcome you to campus and support you as you begin your journey as a Cyclone. As you prepare for life in Ames, one important step will be deciding where you will live during your time at Iowa State.
On-Campus Housing
• Managed by the ISU Department of Residence with halls, suites, and apartments.
• Convenient access to campus, CyRide, and student services.
• Spaces are limited—apply early.
• Explore options: Halls and Apartments
• Sign your contract: New Student Contracts
Note: The most popular on-campus housing options for graduate students are Frederiksen Court, University Village (UV), and Schilletter Village (SV). UV and Frederiksen Court are student housing, with UV mostly unfurnished. SV is designated family housing, and the waitlist can be long, so apply as soon as possible. Please look at the Housing Website for further details.
Off-Campus Housing
• Apartments, duplexes, townhomes, and rental houses in Ames.
• Popular areas: Campustown, Downtown, South Duff.
• Students sign leases directly with landlords; ISU does not endorse properties.
• Student Legal Services can review your lease for free.
• Off-Campus Student Support Office provides rental guidance, roommate connections, and resources for living off-campus.
Important reminder: You need to arrive in Ames, Iowa by your mandatory arrival date of Wednesday, January 14 that is listed on your Form I-20. However, ISSO recommends you arrive at least 1 week early to complete all orientation activities, placement examinations, and any requirements set by your academic department. If you have an emergency and are unable to arrive in Ames by January 14, you must gain approval from your academic department and contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@iastate.edu to receive a late arrival later.
ISSO is here to help make your transition to Iowa State as smooth as possible. We will be sending you reminders and more information in the coming weeks. If you have any questions or concerns, please email isorient@iastate.edu
Safe travels and welcome to Iowa State!
Hello International Cyclone,
If you are an International Graduate Student that will NOT be attending Iowa State University, please let us know so that we can remove you from these communications.
Congratulations on your acceptance to Iowa State University! On behalf of the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO), we are excited to welcome you to the Cyclone community this Spring 2026 semester. We look forward to meeting you and assisting you on your academic journey as a new Cyclone!
In the months ahead, you will receive important emails from us with guidance and resources to help you prepare for a successful start and adjust to your new life in Ames.
The International Graduate Pre-Arrival Guide is a comprehensive manual that ISSO has compiled to help you get started on your journey to Iowa State. Inside you will find all the items you need to complete to finalize your enrollment at Iowa State and plan your arrival in the United States, including:
• What to do after receiving your I-20
• Getting started on your visa application process
• Making travel arrangements both to the U.S. and to campus
• Making permanent housing arrangements
• Temporary Housing arrangements for early arrival
• Information regarding placement exams
• Immunization records and health screenings
• Information about Graduate Student Orientation
Please review your Pre-Arrival Guide carefully as missing a step could delay your enrollment at Iowa State. It is in your best interest to work through the listed steps as soon as possible to ensure you have enough time to complete all the required activities and tasks as new international students!
Important reminder: You need to arrive in Ames, Iowa by your mandatory arrival date of Wednesday, January 14 that is listed on your Form I-20. However, ISSO recommends you arrive at least 1 week early to complete all orientation activities, placement examinations, and any requirements set by your academic department. If you have an emergency and are unable to arrive in Ames by January 14, you must gain approval from your academic department and contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@iastate.edu to receive a late arrival later.
ISSO is here to help make your transition to Iowa State as smooth as possible. We will be sending you reminders and more information in the coming weeks. If you have any questions or concerns, please email isorient@iastate.edu
Safe travels and welcome to Iowa State!
As part of pre-arrival preparations ISSO hosts pre-arrival webinars in the months prior to arrival. Below you can find a schedule of upcoming webinars and videos from previous sessions.
In this webinar, join two ISSO International Advisors as they go over information surrounding your student visa status and the work authorization process, especially for those with graduate assistantships and a University Human Resources Coordinator who will go over the requirements of the University's Students and Scholars Health Insurance Program.
As this webinar has already taken place, please send any questions you may have to isorient@iastate.edu.
In this pre-arrival webinar, join representatives from both the Department of Residence and our Off-Campus Student Support options as they discuss available housing options for incoming students. Then join one of our International Advisor as they go over information around traveling with F-2 dependents.
As this webinar has already taken place, please send any questions you may have to isorient@iastate.edu.
