The IAHL was structured as a "circuit of mutual convenience" with eight teams in two divisions, scheduled to play a 48 game season. The IHL formed the West Division, and the CAHL served as the East Division. The Buffalo Bisons, whose home arena collapsed with nine days left in the 1935—36 season, were forced to suspend operations on December 6, 1936, due to financial woes.
The F. G. "Teddy" Oke Trophy was carried over by the West Division from the International Hockey League, and was awarded to the Syracuse Stars as West Division champions. The Syracuse Stars also won the inaugural Calder Cup by defeating the Philadelphia Ramblers for the championship.
Final standings
Note: GP = Games played; W = Wins; L=Losses; T = Ties; GF = Goals for; GA = Goals against; Pts = Points;