On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas, and other academic restrictions specifically for F-1 students. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026 and will affect members of the international community in different ways. As OISS gathers more information and communicates specific guidance to individuals and groups, we ask that members of the international community refer to the DHS Rule on Admission and Extension webpage as an up-to-date resource. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.
Housing
On-Campus Options for Students
Information about Northwestern Housing for students is available on the Residential Services website. Undergraduate students are required to live in university housing for the first two years of their program.
Off-Campus Housing
The university provides various resources to assist members of the Northwestern community in finding housing. See Northwestern's Off-Campus Life webpage for useful information including resources on finding housing, subletting and finding roommates.
Standard Procedures
When applying for an apartment, a landlord may require an application fee and a credit check (which may require a Social Security number or ITIN), as well as proof of income. Also, when signing a lease, a landlord may require a deposit (usually equivalent to one month's rent) in addition to the first rent payment.