International Student Services recognizes international students as a vital part of UW–Madison. We are committed to educating and empowering students to make informed decisions and working with them to advocate for a globally inclusive community. We support this through four strategic areas: advising, compliance, operations, and global engagement.
Please explore our website for answers to many international student questions. On, Wisconsin!
Student Quick Links
Travel
Advising Services
Get Involved with ISS
Check the Event Calendar to find activities you can get involved!
Optional Practical Training
What is OPT and how can you apply? F-1 students can learn more here.
Program Extension
If you need more time to complete your program of study, you need to extend your immigration document.
Announcements
Federal Immigration Update: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) 8/25/26
The following message was shared with all current F-1 students on August 25, 2026: We know how incredibly valuable hands-on, experiential learning opportunities—like internships and co-ops—are to your academic journey and career goals. It is …
August 25, 2026Consolidated visa services in Africa
Effective August 1, 2026, consular services throughout Africa will be consolidated to 20 regional hubs in 19 countries. Read the State Department’s announcement. Students with previously scheduled visa appointments will likely receive a cancellation and …
July 23, 2026Changes to the “Duration of Status” Rule for International Students and Scholars
July 17, 2026 The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued a federal rule change July 17 that ends the longstanding “duration of status” (D/S) rule for international students and scholars. The rule is effective …
July 17, 2026- More Main Page Announcements posts
