Office of International Students and Scholar Services
Advising and supporting Northwestern’s international students, faculty, staff and scholars
By the Numbers
International students make up 20% of Northwestern's student body and enrich the academic experience of all students by contributing to the cultural diversity of our campus. Each year, Northwestern also hosts hundreds of international scholars, who contribute to more than 20 disciplines.
4020
International Students
124
Countries Represented
1082
International Scholars
Getting Started
Learn about visa options and the application process.
all student resources
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, telephone and scheduled appointments
OISS is open from 12 - 4 PM Monday through Friday. We continue to provide services via online and phone.
News & Events
Events
Jul
13
2022
OPT Workshop
12:00 PM
This workshop is for F-1 international students preparing to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a 12-mo...
Jul
18
2022
J-1 Orientation
12:00 PM
Regulatory and resource orientation for new J-1 Exchange Visitors. If you have any questions, please email Ryan Radebaug...
Aug
17
2022
OPT Workshop
2:00 PM
This workshop is for F-1 international students preparing to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a 12-mo...
News & Announcements
Student COVID-19 Updates for Summer
June 16, 2022
from COVID-19 and Campus Updates website
In a university announcement issued June 16, 2022, Northwestern provides an update on the University approach to COVID-19. As the world adapts to the long-term nature of this pandemic, Northwestern will do the same. Even as we adjust our guidelines and resources this summer to match the current health landscape....
Fall Orientation
June 16, 2022