The Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) office works to improve the retention of multicultural students with an emphasis on academic success and student leadership development. MSA establishes partnerships with Iowa State University departments and related organizations in an effort to promote continuous improvements that respond to the needs of multicultural students.

Through its learning communities, academic enrichment programs, leadership opportunities, classes, workshops and community activities, MSA connects multicultural students to university and community resources that can assist in their persistence and graduation at Iowa State University. Not only does MSA provide specific programs and services that impact the retention of multicultural students but it also supports multicultural students as they acclimate to the university.