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Office of International Student 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.

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:

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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

News & Events

Events

Apr
2
2023

Tax Workshop for International Students & Scholars

1:00 PM
This online tax workshop will provide general tax information specific to Northwestern international students and schola...
Apr
6
2023

OPT Workshop for F-1 International Students

12:00 PM
This workshop is for F-1 international students interested in pursuing work authorization in the U.S. through Optional P...
Apr
7
2023

Tax Workshop for International Students & Scholars

12:00 PM
This online tax workshop will provide general tax information specific to Northwestern international students and schola...

News & Announcements

Are you interested in Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

March 14, 2023

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a 12-month work authorization available to F-1 international students who have been full-time students for at least one academic year and plan to seek employment in the United States in their fields of study.

Review the OPT webpage for full details on eligibility, how to apply, when to apply, FAQs, and more!

All interested students are encouraged to attend the next OPT online workshop on March 24th.

To help keep campus safe, make sure Northwestern can reach you in the event of an emergency...

February 16, 2023

In the wake of Michigan State shooting, Northwestern students, faculty and staff urged to review campus security protocols.

To ensure Northwestern can quickly and effectively warn students about a threat on campus, the University urges everyone to verify emergency messaging contact information in CAESAR or  myHR and make relevant updates as needed. Emergency communications sent by text message are often issued the fastest. Learn how to update your emergency contact info and read about Northwestern safety protocols and resources.
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