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.
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
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.