Iowa State is home to more than 30,000 students and hundreds of organizations, services and resources across campus. For students new to campus, understanding what resources are available can help make the transition to college easier.
Academic support
The Academic Success Center provides individualized and group support for academic skills, grade improvement and course-specific learning. Students can also meet with academic advisors to plan their coursework and connect with university resources.
Other resources are available for specific academic needs. Student Accessibility Services coordinates accommodations for students with disabilities. Parks Library offers study spaces, technology, textbooks and access to librarians who can assist students with research and coursework.
For students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields, WiSE (Women in Science and Engineering) provides programs, resources and connections for women pursuing STEM education and careers.
Visit the ISU academic support resources webpage for more assistance.
Health and well-being
The Thielen Student Health Center provides medical care for students and includes an on-site pharmacy, which can fill prescriptions from both Thielen providers and outside providers.
For mental health, Student Counseling Services offer individual, group and virtual counseling options. Students can also access Student Wellness, which provides programs and resources focused on areas such as basic needs, substance use recovery and bystander intervention.
Beyond medical and counseling services, recreation services provide opportunities for students to stay active on campus. The department operates three recreation facilities as well as outdoor fields and other recreational spaces.
Visit the ISU mental health and well-being resources webpage for more support.
Financial support
The Office of Student Financial Aid administers grants, scholarships, loans and student employment programs. Grants and scholarships are considered gift aid and generally do not need to be repaid, while student loans must be repaid. Students seeking need-based aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
For students looking for financial guidance beyond financial aid, the university also provides financial success resources through the Office of Student Financial Success. The Office of Student Financial Aid lists financial success as a resource for students seeking assistance with financial questions and planning.
Student employment is another option for students looking to earn money while attending ISU. All students can search and apply for on-campus jobs through CyHire, and students do not have to qualify for work-study to work on campus. Work-study is a need-based financial aid program in which eligible students earn money through part-time employment and are paid through the university payroll.
Visit the ISU financial aid support resources webpage for more information.
Getting involved
Iowa State offers students a variety of ways to get involved outside of the classroom. The university has more than 1,000 student organizations, covering academic, cultural, professional, recreational and special-interest groups.
Fraternity and sorority life is another option for students interested in joining a Greek organization. ISU has fraternities and sororities representing different councils and offers recruitment and membership opportunities throughout the year.
For students interested in sports without joining a varsity team, Intramural Sports offers recreational leagues and competitions. Beyond student organizations and sports, there are events and activities throughout the year. These include programs hosted by student organizations, university departments and campus partners, giving students additional opportunities to participate in activities outside of their classes.
Visit the ISU student organization resources webpage for more information about activities.