Medical Services
The Northwestern University Health Service offers full outpatient medical care to Northwestern students. There are branches on each campus:
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.
Health Insurance and Services
Health Insurance
All international students are required to purchase the Northwestern University Health Insurance Plan, and maintain coverage for the duration of their academic program. All J-1 Exchange Visitors and their J-2 dependents are required to have insurance coverage. Exchange Visitors paid by Northwestern are eligible for NU benefits. Exchange Visitors not paid by Northwestern must have Visiting Scholar Health Insurance. See links below for additional information.
Health Services on Campus
Northwestern provides medical and psychological services to students on campus.
Mental Health Services
Northwestern Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) serves as the primary mental health service at Northwestern University with offices on both the Evanston and Chicago campuses.
To learn more about CAPS, watch their intro video in English or Mandarin!