Study abroad programs typically focus on cross-cultural experiences in a location different from the student’s own environment. U.S. agricultural and life sciences students participating in study abroad programs typically prefer short-term programs in Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, or Asia. Few students participate in study abroad in Sub-Saharan Africa and fewer in immersion programs. When students participate in global service-learning, their educational learning through critical reflection and community service is enhanced. Iowa State University’s (ISU) College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has partnered since 2006 with Makerere University (MAK) and two nongovernmental organizations in Uganda to offer a binational, experiential, undergraduate service-learning program in a rural community where students are immersed in the community. Community service includes agriculture and related activities and additionally implements a school garden model. Lessons learned that increase the success of immersion programs include that local partners are essential for community engagement of medium-term immersion programs of at least six weeks or a semester. Enhanced practices also include predeparture orientation and pre-reflection, reflection during immersion, and reflection and sharing of learning upon completion, with all activities embedded in credit-bearing courses required for student participation. Course-based structures increase faculty engagement since faculty recognition occurs with course offerings. Students sharing experiences in university seminars and poster sessions upon return showcases student learning and transformation. Fundraising can emphasize students and their community engagement, increasing an academic foundation’s ability to garner scholarships to offset program costs. Safe facilities and transportation are essential, and local partners can help facilitate student safety and reduce risk. Since 2006, over 400 ISU and MAK students have participated in medium- and longer-term immersion global programs emphasizing service learning in rural Uganda. Connections among university partners can facilitate exchange, and over 30 MAK participants completed or are in graduate degree programs at ISU.