The International Studies Office (ISO), a division of UVA Global, is a University-wide resource which contributes to UVA's global mission through activities, programs and services designed to support the development of a globally aware, culturally diverse education and research environment. Through the International Students and Scholars Program, UVA Education Abroad, the Lorna Sundberg International Center, and the Center for American English Language and Culture (CAELC), the ISO provides expertise and infrastructure to help expand and sustain global education at the University of Virginia.

International Students and Scholars Program staff:

• provide advice and counsel to the international student and scholar community
• serve as a resource in support of international initiatives
• provide programming and services to support the adjustment and integration of international students and scholars to the U.S. and the university community

Education Abroad staff:

• guide and advise students, scholars and faculty on education abroad
• provide information about study abroad opportunities and promote cross-cultural and safety awareness
• facilitate and ensure access to education abroad for all UVA students
• collaborate with University leaders, faculty, staff, and others to increase student participation in education abroad
• assist faculty and administrators in setting up study abroad programs

Lorna Sundberg International Center staff and volunteers:

• offer programs and services to enhance the experience of UVA's international students, scholars, faculty and families
• provide opportunities for intercultural enrichment for the University and the local community

Center for American English Language and Culture (CAELC) faculty and staff:

• provide leadership on issues related to ESL/intercultural communication
• help members of the UVA community attain the level of linguistic and cultural proficiency needed for success at a research university in the United States
• manage the VISAS: English Language Volunteering program and services, MOVE: Volunteer Translating program, Workplace English program, and the TESOL Certificate Program
  
   

The ISO is funded through the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost. The Director reports to the Vice Provost for Global Affairs, Stephen D. Mull. The ISO is advised by the Schools of the University, the University Risk Management Committee for Education Abroad, and the International Students and Scholars Advisory Council. In addition to the College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and the professional schools of the University, the ISO regularly collaborates with the Division of Student Affairs, Office of Summer and Special Academic Programs, University Housing and Dining Services, University Registrar, Student Financial Services, Office of Risk Management, Office of the General Counsel, Public Affairs, University Career Services, Center for Global Inquiry and Innovation, Task Force on Global Engagement, and student associations.

The operations of the ISO are informed by the University’s Statement of Purpose and Code of Ethics and core values of honor and ethics, faculty excellence, innovation and collaboration in the pursuit of knowledge, and leadership for the public good and education for freedom. The ISO also endorses the University's Sustainability Plan and is a member of UVA's Green Workplace program, is committed to 100% zero-waste and carbon neutral events, invests in offsets for all ISO staff travel and student travel organized by the ISO, and works with faculty program directors and local partners to lower the carbon footprint of education abroad programs.

The ISO endorses the Statements of Ethics, Professional Competencies and Principles for Programs and Services developed by NAFSA: Association of International Educators and the Standards of Good Practice adopted by the Forum on Education Abroad.