Lori Meadows
International Student Services (ISS) are the services, support, and programming available to undergraduate and graduate international students. They are provided by the institution at which the students are studying. These services have been developed to meet the specific needs of international students during their post-secondary studies. ISS offices are usually located within the institution's international office or international centre, or by student affairs professionals from other departments. They provide support to international students on a range of topics, including immigration, visas, academic and language support, financial aid, employment, and health and wellness.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who provides the services | The institution at which the students are studying |
| Who are they for | Undergraduate and graduate international students |
| Type of support | Orientation programming, immigration advising, academic and language support, financial aid support, employment services, health and wellness support, residence and housing support, social programming, and post-graduation planning support |
| Who delivers the services | Student affairs professionals who often work within the institution's international office or international centre, or by student affairs professionals from other departments |
| How to access the services | In-person or virtual |
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What You'll Learn
Immigration and visas
International Student Services (ISS) are the services, support, and programming available to undergraduate and graduate international students. They are provided by the institution at which the students are studying. These services have been developed to meet international students' specific needs during their post-secondary studies. One of the most important services provided by ISS is immigration advising.
ISS offices are dedicated to serving and supporting international students during their journey of studying in a foreign country. They are a valuable resource for students, helping them navigate the complex maze of immigration policies and legal terms. ISS staff are well-versed in immigration issues and can provide information and support on obtaining and maintaining non-immigrant student status. They can also advise on how to derive the maximum benefits from this status. This includes information on how and when students can apply for a post-graduate work permit and how to become a permanent resident of the country in which they are studying.
ISS offices also provide support with visa issues. In the US, for example, international undergraduate students mostly use the F-1 visa, while in the UK, they need a Tier 4 visa. ISS staff can help international students navigate the process of obtaining and maintaining the correct visa for their studies. They can also provide broader support with academic, cultural, social, and personal concerns.
ISS offices often work in tandem with other departments, such as career services or wellness centres, to develop and deliver services for international students. They may also collaborate with other student services departments to involve both international and domestic students in social and cultural programming. This helps to create a globally inclusive community and foster connections between students from different backgrounds.
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Academic and language support
International student services are the support systems and programming offered to undergraduate and graduate international students by the institution they are attending. These services are designed to meet the unique needs of international students during their post-secondary studies. Academic and language support is a critical component of international student services, ensuring that students receive the necessary assistance to succeed in their academic pursuits and effectively overcome language barriers.
Academic support for international students can encompass a range of services. Many institutions offer tutoring services to international students, helping them navigate the academic demands of their new educational context. This may include assistance with course selection, study skills, and academic advising to ensure students are on the right track with their studies. Additionally, international student services may provide mentorship programs that pair experienced students or faculty members with international students, fostering a supportive environment for academic and personal growth.
Language support is another vital aspect of international student services. Recognizing that language barriers can impact a student's academic performance and overall adjustment, institutions often offer language assistance. This may include language courses or workshops specifically tailored to international students, helping them improve their proficiency in the language of instruction. Additionally, language support can extend beyond the classroom, focusing on practical language skills needed for everyday life, such as communicating with landlords, opening bank accounts, or navigating healthcare systems.
International student services also play a crucial role in bridging the gap between international students and their host institution's faculty. They facilitate academic and language support by offering guidance on academic writing, research skills, and effective communication with professors and teaching assistants. This support empowers international students to confidently engage with their academic community and fully participate in their educational experience.
Furthermore, academic and language support services often collaborate with other departments within the institution to create holistic support systems. For instance, they may work with career services to help international students develop professional communication skills and navigate employment opportunities. By integrating academic and language support with other aspects of student life, these services contribute to the overall well-being and success of international students during their academic journey in a new country.
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Financial aid and employment services
International Student Services (ISS) are the services, support, and programming available to undergraduate and graduate international students provided by the institution at which they are studying. These services are designed to meet the specific needs of international students during their post-secondary studies. One of the critical aspects of ISS is providing financial aid support and employment services to international students, who often face unique challenges in these areas due to their status.
Financial Aid Support
International students may encounter financial challenges due to varying currency values, higher fees, and a lack of access to domestic scholarships or financial aid programs. ISS offices play a crucial role in helping students navigate these difficulties. They can provide information on scholarships, grants, and loans specifically for international students, helping them secure funding for their education. Additionally, ISS advisers can offer guidance on managing finances, budgeting, and understanding the cost of living in the host country.
ISS offices often maintain close connections with various departments on campus, enabling them to provide comprehensive support to international students. For instance, they can collaborate with the financial aid department to stay informed about any financial aid opportunities that may be open to international students. This includes keeping students updated on scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and other forms of financial assistance offered by the university itself.
Employment Services
Employment services are a vital component of ISS, as many international students seek part-time work during their studies or aim to secure employment after graduation. ISS advisers can provide guidance on work permits, visa requirements, and job-hunting strategies. They help students understand the regulations surrounding international student employment, including the number of hours they can work and the types of jobs that are permissible.
ISS offices often organize employment workshops, career fairs, and networking events to facilitate connections between international students and potential employers. They may also offer resume and cover letter assistance, interview preparation, and guidance on adapting to the host country's work culture. Additionally, ISS can support students in exploring internship opportunities, which can be a valuable stepping stone towards future employment.
Post-Graduation Planning Support
ISS offices also assist international students in planning their next steps after graduation. This includes providing information on how and when to apply for post-graduate work permits, as well as guidance on becoming a permanent resident of the country in which they studied. ISS advisers can offer support with the complex processes involved in obtaining the necessary visas and permits, helping students make a smooth transition from student life to employment or further education.
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Health and wellness support
Studying in a foreign country can be overwhelming. International students can access support programs and resources to help them navigate the healthcare system in their host country.
University Health Services
University Health Services (UHS) is available to all enrolled students, regardless of their health insurance coverage. For example, at the University of Notre Dame, international students are automatically enrolled in university-sponsored insurance. The university is committed to investing in the well-being of its faculty and staff through its Wellness Center and Pharmacy, which offers healthcare and pharmacy services for eligible university members.
Health Insurance
It is important for international students to have appropriate health care coverage, as medical care can be expensive. Even with health insurance, not all medical expenses will be covered, and students may need to pay any remaining costs. There are various insurance providers that cater specifically to international students, such as IMG and Compass Student Insurance, which offer plans that meet visa requirements.
University Support
Some universities may have specific support programs and resources for international students. For example, the University of Virginia offers international students access to the UVA Student Health Plan network of providers, as well as providers in Student Health and Wellness who can directly submit claims to the UVA student health plan. Students should contact their institution to find out what services are available to them.
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Social programming
International student services are provided by institutions to meet the specific needs of international undergraduate and graduate students during their post-secondary studies. Social programming is an important aspect of these services, fostering a sense of community and inclusion for international students.
One example of social programming is the "buddy system", where domestic students assist international students in settling into their new campus and city. This system pairs international students with domestic peers, fostering friendships and providing practical support during the transition period. It helps international students navigate their new surroundings, make social connections, and adapt to cultural differences.
International student services offices also organise social events, trips, and activities to encourage social interaction and a sense of belonging. These events may include cultural outings, social mixers, international food festivals, or collaborative projects between international and domestic students. Such initiatives create opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to connect, fostering a global community within the institution.
Additionally, international student services may facilitate cross-cultural workshops, language exchange programmes, and cultural mentorship schemes. These initiatives enhance cultural understanding, promote language learning, and provide international students with insights into the local culture and customs. By participating in these programmes, international students can develop their social skills, broaden their perspectives, and form meaningful connections with their peers.
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Frequently asked questions
International student services are the services, support, and programming available to undergraduate and graduate international students provided by the institution at which they are studying. These services aim to meet the specific needs of international students during their post-secondary studies and can include orientation programming, immigration advising, academic and language support, financial aid support, and more.
International student services are typically provided by student affairs professionals who work within the institution's international office or international centre. These professionals often collaborate with other departments, such as career services or wellness centres, to develop and deliver services tailored to the needs of international students.
International student services are funded by the institution offering the services. As international students often pay higher fees for their education, these offices are becoming increasingly common on campuses. The services provided by these offices are designed to support international students throughout their academic journey and beyond.
