International Student Services

Let the Diversity & International Student Success office know your flight information and if you need a ride from the airport. Complete this arrival form every semester 2-3 weeks prior to your flight.

Flight tickets should be booked well in advance. The nearest airport is the Eastern Iowa Airport. It is a small, regional airport, so flight options may be limited.

Also, check the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Travel Recommendations for info on Covid-19 and international travel.

Make changes to your visa on the US Student and Exchange Visitor Program Portal. Contact the Designated School Official (DSO) Amir Hadzic with visa questions or to get an updated I-20.

The Study in the States website also has helpful information on the I-20 and other necessary paperwork.

If you need a ride to the social security office, please let Danielle Rudd know one week in advance.

To work on-campus, international students will need a social security card. Then contact the Financial Aid Office for a list of open campus employment opportunities. Also check with each department individually to see if they need student workers, such as admissions, student services, and events.

Curricular Practice Training (CPT) allows students employment related to their field of study such as an internship required for your major.

Optional Practice Training (OPT) allows students employment related to their field of study either during or after obtaining their degree. 

To apply for CPT or OPT:

1. Contact Amir at ahadzic@517b2b.com to begin the process
2. Get a job offer for a job in your field of study/major
3. Work with Amir to complete form CPT/OPT form
4. Submit an application and receive an updated I-20 form

Volunteer Opportunities: The Mission and Ministry department provides volunteer opportunities in sustainability and mentorship.

Social Justice Research and Community Engagement Program: Gain experience in advocacy and enhance research skills through AmeriCorps’ Campus Compact program.

Clubs and Organizations: All international students are designated in the International Club. International students are encouraged to join a career, interest, identity, or leadership focused club as well.

Athletics: Find information on games and links to resources for current student-athletes.

About Cedar Rapids: Learn about the athletic, art and cultural events in Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities.

Mount Mercy University’s Graduate School and the University of Iowa’s Graduate School accept international students, among others. Discuss your graduate school plans with Diversity & International Student Success for additional guidance and support.

Green State Credit Union: Allows students to open an account without a social security card while waiting for it to arrive.

Contact: Simon Mejia

Email: simonmejia@greenstate.org

Phone: 319-731-2771

US Bank: Has an ATM on campus on the 1^st floor of the UC.