Skip to main content

International Students

Northwestern welcomes students from around the world.

Our International Community

Our population of 9,500 international students and scholars come from more than 120 countries around the world. They are engaged in scholarship at all levels, from undergraduate degree-seekers to PhD candidates.

Accessible copy of International Students Country of Origin and Degree Distribution pie chart

international-chart.jpg

Why Northwestern?

Each year, hundreds of international students choose Northwestern.

In fact, one in 10 undergraduates is from outside of the US. Explore some of the reasons that students choose Northwestern over other institutions.

World-Class Education

campus aerial

US News and World Report ranks Northwestern 9th overall among US institutions. Our top-ranked programs include:

  • Executive and Part-Time MBA: #3
  • Law School #3
  • Materials Science #4
  • Chemistry #6
  • Economics #10

Keep Exploring

Welcome and Supported

International students are included in every part of the Northwestern community. Many University offices provide guidance, assistance and events for international students. Start exploring their offerings and resources.

Office of International Student and Scholar Services

Our Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS) supports students and scholars with visa assistance, help with tax requirements, employment and more. Don't miss OISS's International Student Orientation, a chance to meet other international students, learn about via requirements and get settled on campus. Other OISS events, including lectures, outings, and workshops, help students navigate American culture and take advantage of all the University and area have to offer.

Office of International Student and Scholar Services

Multicultural Student Affairs

Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) fosters cultural engagement and self-expression within Northwestern's diverse student population. In addition to sponsoring heritage celebrations and workshops, MSA connects students to one another through student groups. Explore dozens of undergraduate and graduate student groups that range in focus from professional training to political advocacy to performing arts.
Multicultural Student Affairs

Ask a Global Wildcat

Global Wildcats are current international students who are excited to share their experiences with prospective international students. Connect with a Global Wildcat today.

Student Voices

Why do international students take a Northwestern Direction? Hear from a current student on her journey.

At every step there is an opportunity to push yourself. You can take advanced classes designed for undergraduates, like the MMSS program or MENU program, and you can explore different fields with your distribution requirements. I have taken Russian literature, the philosophy of ethics, advanced linear algebra and computer programming all in one quarter.”

Shreya Goel, Economics and Mathematical Methods in Social Sciences double-major from Delhi, India
Student Shreya Goel

Apply to Northwestern

Wildcat Welcome
Use Northwestern's admissions websites to learn about application deadlines, financial aid and more. Or, attend an information session closer to you; admission officers travel around the world to meet with students and families at public information sessions, high schools and college fairs.

Keep exploring: