for students
- See Steps for Newly Admitted Students
- Read about the process to request a Form I-20 or DS-2019
On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026. While Northwestern analyzes this complex rule, we are working to update our website and communicate guidance as quickly as possible. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.
Office of International Student and Scholar Services
Advising and supporting Northwestern’s international students, faculty, staff and scholars
By the Numbers
Our nearly 5,000 international students enrich the academic experience of all students. Additionally, Northwestern hosts hundreds of international scholars each year, who contribute to more than 20 disciplines.
4913
International Students
142
Countries Represented
1609
International Scholars
Getting Started
Learn about visa options and the application process.
for faculty, staff & scholars
- Compare visas using the Visa Options Guide
- Explore Legal Permanent Residence
for host departments
- Read the General Hosting Guide
- Access Host Department Forms
Student Employment
OISS helps students apply for off-campus work authorization (permission) during their academic programs (CPT) and after completing their degrees (OPT).
Learn more about eligibility, application procedures and processing times for:
Living in the US
Find guidance and resources as you adjust to life at Northwestern and the United States.
How can we help?
Advisors are available via email, virtual advisement and scheduled appointments
News & Events
Events
There are no upcoming events at this time.
Newsletters and Updates
Update on new immigration restrictions
December 17, 2025
The White House announced a travel ban that will stop nationals from 20 countries from entering the United States. The policy, which includes heightened restrictions on an additional 19 countries, will take effect at 12:01 a.m. EDT on Thursday, January 1.
Click the link above for the complete list of countries and the OISS update.
State Department's new criteria for visa applicants
June 23, 2025
Late last week, the U.S. Department of State announced new screening and vetting criteria for visa applicants. According to the announcement, “all applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas will be instructed to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media profiles to ‘public.’”