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Our Mission & Role

The OISS Mission

The mission of the Office of International Student and Scholar Services is to enrich the academic, research and cultural experience of Northwestern's international students, visitors, employees and families. 

  • We achieve this by advising and supporting the university’s international community and by collaborating with campus partners.  
  • We advocate on behalf of our populations on campus, in the community, and with relevant government agencies.  
  • We strive to increase the visibility of the international community and promote educational and cultural exchange.  

Office Vision and Values

Vision

The OISS aspires to increase the visibility of international students, employees, visitors and families to enrich the broader campus community.

Values

  • Accuracy and consistency
    We follow processes and provide advising services consistently, thoroughly, and accurately.
  • Diversity and inclusion
    We respect cultural differences and the multiple dimensions of our populations’ identities and cultivate an inclusive environment.
  • Communication
    We provide a clear, unified, and accurate message to our constituents.
  • Professionalism
    We provide development opportunities to create excellence, increase competence, and establish each team member as a valued asset.
  • Collaboration
    We establish ties among the Northwestern community in pursuit of common goals.
  • Accountability
    We believe in individual responsibility and organizational accountability to achieve expected results and outcomes.
  • Service
    We provide the highest quality of service to equip our constituents for overall success.
  • Ethical practices
    We fairly and impartially apply all university policies and state and federal regulations.