Our International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) team welcomes all new international students and scholars to our flagship campus, serving as the touchpoint for all of your questions about immigration, transitioning to the U.S., and making on-campus connections. We aim to provide a welcoming environment to promote and facilitate a successful educational, professional and personal experience for our international community.
Have an emergency?
If you're experiencing an issue with your immigration status ISSS is here to support you. Contact ISSS Director, Susan-Ellis Dougherty at (301)314-1713 or send us a message at isss_inquiry@umd.edu. You can also contact the UMD Police Department at (301)405-3333.
Please note that this emergency phone line is exclusively for urgent matters and should not be used for inquiries regarding OPT or CPT.
For the latest news and updates on visas and immigration, visit our Immigration News and Updates page.
New to Maryland? Start here.
Upcoming Events
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February 9, 2026 - to May 4, 2026Language House Language Chats
Everyone is welcome to practice, improve or maintain language skills in a casual setting with drinks and snacks. The program meets every Monday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at St.
View Event Details for Language House Language Chats -
February 19, 2026 - to April 30, 2026
International Coffee Hour
International Coffee Hour, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services, takes place on Thursdays from 2:30pm - 3:30 p.m. at various locations around our beautiful campus.
View Event Details for International Coffee Hour -
April 15, 2026
International Terp Career Development: Managing Stress During a Job Search
This webinar will provide you with practical strategies to help navigate the emotional ups and downs of the job search process. Learn how to manage uncertainty, stay motivated, and maintain your well-being while pursuing career opportunities.
View Event Details for International Terp Career Development: Managing Stress During a Job Search
Global Maryland News
From Seoul to San Juan: A Graduate Student's Vision for More Inclusive Study Abroad
Daniel Lee knows what it feels like to arrive somewhere unfamiliar and find your footing. As an international graduate student from South Korea pursuing a Master’s degree in higher education, student affairs and international education policy, he came to the University of Maryland carrying what he describes as "a little bit of imposter syndrome."Lee’s experience navigating U.S. higher education, and learning how to see his international perspective as an asset helped shape global learning at UMD and who it is designed for.
Engineering the Future While Learning from the Past: A Winter in Germany
Studying abroad in Germany gave this engineering student a firsthand look at how a city can honor its past while engineering its future. | Daniel Prins, UMD-Winter: Germany
From Bali to Policy: Lessons in Language, Culture and Community-Led Change
“When I committed to the Indonesian study abroad program, I started learning Indonesian and I’m so glad I put in the effort to learn and use some of the language…I unlocked a unique connection to whoever I'm interacting with that goes beyond typical tourist behavior.“ | Jillian Mikutsky, UMD Winter: Indonesia
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Engaging our international community is our top-priority:
Maryland's commitment to staying ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving field of Information Systems, through its cutting-edge curriculum and interdisciplinary approach, provides me with the tools to turn over a new leaf and transform my passion for technology into a flourishing career.