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.
Complete Immunization Compliance Requirements
Immunizations
All students at Northwestern must meet state immunization requirements by submitting proof of immunizations through the Northwestern Personal Health Portal (PNC) prior to the Deadline for Immunization Records set by the Immunization Compliance Team at Northwestern University
Failure to meet these requirements may result in a late fee. Visit Immunization Requirements for deadline details and submission instructions. If you have questions concerning the immunization requirements, immunizations, or related issues, please send an email message to: immunizations@northwestern.edu or call Immunization Compliance at 847.491.2117
Health Insurance
All degree-seeking international students on J-1 or F-1 visas must maintain NU-SHIP coverage throughout their studies, as alternative plans often lack necessary benefits and can lead to financial or visa-related issues. We encourage students to review their coverage early and enroll between July 1 and Oct. 1 to ensure uninterrupted access to benefits. For more details, visit the Student Health Insurance website. If you have questions concerning health insurance requirements, you may contact the student health insurance team directly by emailing student.insurance@northwestern.edu