Penn State Mark Penn State Mark

International Students and Scholars

International Student and Scholar Advising (ISSA) offers advising, immigration services, and training to support our international students, scholars, and faculty.

Male student and female student sitting in a classroom

International Students

We assist incoming and enrolled international students including those from other schools on practical training with U.S. visa and immigration matters and provide advising on status throughout Penn State enrollment.

Faculty member speaking with a male student in his office

International Scholars

We're here to guide J-1 scholars through compliance with all federal rules and regulations.

Students at a whiteboard with a faculty member

International Faculty

We're here to advise and assist in the preparation of both temporary and permanent employment based applications in compliance with University policy and federal regulations.

Two students, one male and one female, seated at a desk meeting with a faculty member

Faculty & Staff Resources

ISSA can help you support, advise, and maintain the status of your students, scholars, and international faculty.

The Nittany Lion mascot serving icecream to students seated at an outdoor patio

Life at Penn State

We have resources to help you find your way around; from housing and transportation to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Events

more events

News

Let's hear a 'We Are!' for these Penn Staters — Feb. 19

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 15:5

As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 20 Penn Staters who have gone above and beyond what’s asked of them in their work at the University.   

Applications now open to faculty for Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program for 2026-27

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 15:0

The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program's 2026-27 competition is now open, featuring over 375 awards offered in more than 140 countries. The awards cycle is open until 5 p.m. on Sept. 15.

Penn State awarded highest honor for campus internationalization

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 09:5

Penn State has been named a recipient of the 2025 Senator Paul Simon Award for Campus Internationalization, the highest recognition in the field of international education, awarded by NAFSA: Association of International Educators. NAFSA is the largest nonprofit association dedicated to international education and exchange.

more news