for students
- See Steps for Newly Admitted Students
- Read about the process to request a Form I-20 or DS-2019
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.
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, virtual advisement and scheduled appointments
News & Events
Events
Oct
3
2023
Make-up International Student Orientation (Virtual)
3:00 PM
This program is intended for newly arrived F-1/J-1 international students who were unable to participate in the in-perso...
Oct
4
2023
Open Office Hours with HR Foreign Tax Team
12:00 PM International Student and Scholar Services, 630 Dartmouth Place
International students and scholars employed by Northwestern University or those receiving a scholarship/fellowship fro...
Oct
11
2023
Open Office Hours with HR Foreign Tax Team
12:00 PM International Student and Scholar Services, 630 Dartmouth Place
International students and scholars employed by Northwestern University or those receiving a scholarship/fellowship fro...
News & Announcements
Northwestern's most diverse undergraduate class ever!
September 19, 2023
The Class of 2027 is Northwestern’s most diverse class ever, and one of the most international. President Michael Schill and University leaders offer words of wisdom and encouragement to new students as the new school year begins. Read the full story.
News from SEVP - Sign and send the Form I-983 electronically now!
September 29, 2023
As of 9/18/2023 the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) updated the Form I-983, “Training Plan for STEM OPT Students,” to remove language requiring wet signatures. Students and employers may continue to physically sign the Form I-983 or input their own electronic signature. Read the full story with details of accepted electronic signature format.