Make-up International Student Orientation (Virtual)

New Students - Did you arrive late or miss in-person orientation for some other reason? We've got you covered! Attend the virtual condensed Make-up Orientation on Tuesday, October 3rd from 3:00 - 4:00 PM (CT). See full details including the zoom link at https://planitpurple.northwestern.edu/event/604539

Attention Graduate Students

G-ISA Welcome Event - Tonight at 5:00 PM

The Northwestern Graduate International Student Association (G-ISA) invites all graduate level international students to the G-ISA Welcome Event 2023.

When:  Oct 2nd, 5 pm - 7 pm
Where: OISS backyard, 630 Dartmouth Pl, Evanston, IL 60208
What: Deep dish Chicago style pizza, games, and laughs
RSVP: G-ISA Welcome Event (google.com)

Learn about OPT

The next online Optional Practical Training (OPT) workshop will be held Tuesday, October 11th  from 2:00 - 3:30 PM.  OPT eligibility requirements, application timelines and application requirements will be covered in detail during this virtual workshop. All F-1 international students interested in applying for OPT are encouraged to attend.

See the OPT Event for more details and zoom link to join.

What is a "travel signature" or "travel endorsement"?

A travel signature (also called travel endorsement) is relevant only to F-1 students or J-1 students and scholars (and their dependents) who are planning to travel abroad and return to the U.S. in F or J status. This includes alumni who remain in F or J status for post-graduation F-1 OPT or J-1 AT.

• You must have an unexpired travel signature on the date you re-enter the U.S. 
• The "travel endorsement" signature on page 2 of the I-20 or on the bottom right corner of page 1 of the DS-2019 is valid for 12 months for CONTINUING students.

Below is an image of the "Travel Endorsement" section on a Form I-20. This document does NOT have a travel signature, so a continuing student traveling abroad would NOT be able to re-enter the U.S. with this I-20.

• Learn more including how to request a travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019 on the F-1 & J-1 Travel webpage.

Wondering about places of worship on campus?

Find your community with Northwestern University Religious and Spiritual Life. Learn about places of Worship for different religions and religious student organizations.

Important On-Campus Safety Reminders

Safety is a shared responsibility.  Being mindful of yourself, those around you and your surroundings can truly make a difference. The following information is from Northwestern University Police and Northwestern Administration:

• The most common crime on campuses is theft of property such as wallets, laptops and cellphones. Please do not leave your personal belongings and valuables unattended.
• Review the updated building access protocols. Community members should carry their Wildcards and remain vigilant when entering buildings through secured doors. Please do not prop open exterior doors.
• Be aware that phishing attempts offering part-time jobs and other financial investment opportunities are often sent to defraud you.
• Register your bike and receive a free helmet and light. Review our bike resources, including information for how to purchase a bike lock.

Quick links for community safety resources

• NUhelp – guide for students navigating Northwestern's safety and wellness resources.
• NUGuardian – free peer-to-peer smartphone application for Northwestern students to enhance their personal safety by designating phone contacts as “guardians” who walk (virtually) with them.
• Safe Ride – Student Affairs service available to Northwestern students as a safe and free alternative to walking alone after dark.
• Free shuttles – transportation provided to the Northwestern community on both the Evanston and Chicago campuses well into the night.
• Wildcats Aware Reporting Form – reporting tool for the Northwestern community to report if they become aware of someone displaying threatening behavior.
• Safety & Security website – complete guide further describing our services to the University community.

OISS Calendar of Events

Oct 3 @ 3:00 PM - Make-up International Student Orientation (Virtual)

Oct 11 @ 2:00 PM - OPT Workshop

Oct 13 & Oct 27 @ 3:00 PM - "Coffee Talk" for International Students & Scholars
Location: In-person at OISS (630 Dartmouth) or attend virtually via Zoom.

Every Wednesday afternoon - Virtual international student advisement for quick questions; 12 - 4:00 PM - See Web-in-Wednesdays for details.