On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas, and other academic restrictions specifically for F-1 students. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026 and will affect members of the international community in different ways. As OISS gathers more information and communicates specific guidance to individuals and groups, we ask that members of the international community refer to the DHS Rule on Admission and Extension webpage as an up-to-date resource. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.
Northwestern’s Commitment to an Inclusive, Global Academic Community
To members of the Northwestern international community,
In light of the U.S. government’s recent proclamation on the suspension of entry "of certain students and researchers from the People's Republic of China," we want to express Northwestern University’s commitment to being an inclusive, global academic community.
This is essential to fulfilling our mission and to addressing our world’s most urgent challenges. Our Chinese students, scholars and faculty are deeply valued members of our community and full partners in these efforts, bringing important new ideas and perspectives to Northwestern.
The Northwestern Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS) stands ready to support and advocate for all our international students and scholars. We encourage all members of our community with concerns regarding their status to reach out to their OISS advisor.
Again, we want to emphasize our ongoing commitment to our Chinese students and researchers and to all our international scholars, whose presence and contributions enrich our entire academic community.
We will continue to work with our partners to advocate for our international scholars and to ensure that all members of our community can pursue their work as full and equal members of the university.
Best regards,
Kathleen Hagerty
Interim Provost and Professor
Milan Mrksich
Vice President for Research