International Wildcat Welcome (IWW)

On Sept. 14, 2026, a federal judge in Massachusetts issued a nationwide preliminary injunction indefinitely postponing the effective date of the new U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rule intended to establish a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that would impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas, and other academic restrictions specifically for F-1 students. Northwestern is monitoring this case and any further developments, and we will continue to provide updates as appropriate.
International Student Orientation is an opportunity for students to learn about Northwestern including meeting their OISS Advisor, learning about immigration compliance requirements, preparing for the academic year, and making connections with other international students. During international student orientation, students will also receive guidance on how to complete the Arrival Checklist, which is necessary to activate or validate one’s SEVIS record.

