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Alert

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.

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Secure Housing

On-Campus Housing

Information about Northwestern student housing is available through Northwestern Residential Services.

  • Undergraduate Students

    • The Fall 2026 move-in date for international students is Sept. 13. Undergraduate students registered for International Wildcat Welcome do not need to apply for Early Arrival. Students who wish to move in to University housing earlier than Sept. 13 should submit an Early Arrival request to Residential Services between 9 a.m. Aug. 10 and 11:59 p.m. Aug. 21. The earliest arrival option is 8 a.m. Sept. 9. If the request is approved, students will be charged $50 per night for housing, plus an additional $55 daily fee if the optional meal plan is selected. University financial aid cannot be applied to the housing and dining fees for arrival before Sept. 13.

    • Undergraduate students are required to live in University housing for the first two years of their program. View the Residential Services Dates of Note page to learn about housing options, important dates, and deadlines.

  • Graduate Students

Off-Campus Life

The University provides resources to help students find local housing options. Below are links to the Off-Campus Life website, the Off-Campus Housing website, and a guide created specifically for international students.