International Student Orientation
Presented by Northwestern's Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS), the online International Student Orientation (ISO) will provide international students with essential information and advice on such matters as immigration, medical insurance, and acclimating to US academic culture and life in Evanston.
Registration for ISO is through the Wildcat Welcome Information Form (due July 1). The online ISO begins when you receive your invitation to the ISO Canvas page on August 31, and live online events start on September 11. Students participating in ISO move into their campus residence on September 11. After ISO, all international students participate in Wildcat Welcome.
Request your I-20/DS-2019 no later than August 1
Visit the OISS website to review the steps and requirements for new international students including how to prepare to request your immigration documents prior to obtaining your student visa at a U.S. Consulate. Request your immigration document (form I-20 for F-1 international students) in the OISS Portal by clicking on “New Students.”
Please submit this request as soon as possible to allow yourself the most time to obtain your visa and arrange travel plans.
Summer Communications
Over the summer, check the OISS Orientation website frequently and be sure to read OISS's New to NU: A Guide for New International Students monthly emails, which will include up-to-date information concerning health and safety guidelines. Students who are registered for ISO are assigned to an international peer adviser group that starts interaction in July via email, Canvas, and social media.
Health and Safety
As of May, CDC guidelines require all international travelers to quarantine upon arrival in the United States. If the requirement remains in effect through September, OISS will work to ensure that your quarantine will be as comfortable as possible and include provisions for all of your basic needs. Along with CDC requirements, OISS constantly monitors travel restrictions and will adapt ISO accordingly.
The safety of our students is our top priority. Dates and details are subject to change as Northwestern follows local, state, and federal health directives and guidelines. Students will be notified of changes via Purple Prep emails throughout the summer.