COVID-19 Updates
New and continuing international students and scholars should consult the COVID-19 FAQs for the latest requirements and protocols.
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.
3400
International Students
127
Countries Represented
1300+
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 10 AM to 4 PM Monday through Friday. We continue to provide services via online and phone.
News & Events
Covid-19 Updates
January Return to Campus Data, Testing and Webinar
January 7, 2022
from COVID-19 and Campus Updates website
Information about current testing data, on-site and at-home testing, new guidance on masking, updated city mitigation expectations and more
News & Announcements
Winter Quarter Online OPT Workshops
January 4, 2022
Check the OISS Event Calendar for upcoming OPT Workshops. Or, view the slides from the OPT workshop.
Document Pick-up and Drop-off
January 4, 2022
The OISS is open for document pick-up in Evanston Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 4 PM.