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Preparing for Arrival

Prepare for your move by acquiring housing, necessary immunizations and health requirements, and more. Explore all of our pre-arrival resources. 

Before You Leave

Take the steps to obtain on-campus or off-campus housing and fulfilling health requirements, including getting immunizations and student health insurance. 

COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement

Northwestern University requires COVID-19 vaccinations for all students who come to campus. Northwestern currently does not require a booster dose to be compliant with the COVID-19 vaccination requirement. However, we strongly recommend boosters for those who medically are able to obtain them. Learn more about Booster availability and guidelines.

Students must report vaccination

All students are required to fill out the COVID-19 Student Vaccination Disclosure Form to report their vaccination or request an exception.

Report your Vaccination

  • Students who have already received a full WHO/FDA-approved COVID-19 primary vaccine series, should attest to vaccination status by completing the COVID-19 Student Vaccination Disclosure Form in order to register for classes.
  • Students must have proof of their vaccination or approval for an exception on record in order to register for classes. 
  • Students who are partially vaccinated or have not had access to an FDA- or WHO-approved vaccine before arriving on campus must submit a request for a temporary exception immediately in order to remain compliant for the month necessary to complete the full vaccination series.

Please visit the COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement webpage for more information or contact vaccine@northwestern.edu with questions.

Plan Your Arrival

F-1 and J-1 students may not arrive to the U.S. more than 30 days before the start date listed on the F-1 I-20 or the J-1 DS-2019.  This requirement, as well as the student check-in and orientation dates, will need to be considered when arranging travel. Lean more about: