International Students and Scholars
Office of International Students and Scholars Services
The ISSS provides advising services to CMU students and scholars on F-1, J-1 and other non-immigrant visas. We also provide programming and events for new student orientation, cultural awareness and student success.
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About the ISSS team
Our mission
The International Student and Scholar Services unit (ISSS) within the Office of International Affairs and Graduate Recruitment is here to support and guide international students, scholars, faculty and staff. We work hard to make sure international students and scholars have a smooth transition to life at CMU.
Our dedicated staff provides personalized advising appointments to help with immigration questions, supports visiting scholars and faculty and connects you to our vibrant international community through cultural programs and events.
ISSS provides advising services to students and scholars at CMU on F, J and other nonimmigrant visas. In addition to advising on immigration matters, we provide programming and events for new student orientation, cultural awareness and student success.
We provide:
- Immigration advising.
- Visiting scholar or professor advising.
- New student orientation.
- Oversight for international student organizations.
- Cultural programs and events.

CMU by the Numbers
students guided by our office
countries’ students call CMU home
alumni advancing their careers through OTP
EXEC DIR/GRADUATE & INTERNATIONAL RCMT
Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment
DIR/INTERNATIONAL STDT/SCHOLAR SRVS
Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVISOR
Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment
During business hours
(Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.)
- Contact the ISSS Front Desk at (989) 774-4308 and ask to speak with an advisor.
- Contact an ISSS Advisor via email at isss@cmich.edu (this is the best option if you have Wi-Fi access on a flight and cannot make a phone call)
After business hours
If you experience one of the immigration emergencies outlined above after business hours, contact the CMU Police at (989) 774-3081. Let them know that you have an emergency and need to speak with an ISSS advisor.
Emergency contacts
For medical emergencies or if you feel that your safety or the safety of others is at risk, please call 911. This number works anywhere in the United States and will connect you with local public safety officials.
The following are immigration emergencies which require immediate attention:
- Being denied entry into the United States.
- Being otherwise detained at a U.S. Port of Entry.
- Being arrested for any reason while in the United States.
If you experience any of these issues, please follow the steps below depending on the time of day.