for students
- See Steps for Newly Admitted Students
- Read about the process to request a Form I-20 or DS-2019
Office of International Student and Scholar Services
Advising and supporting Northwestern’s international students, faculty, staff and scholars
By the Numbers
International students make up 25% of Northwestern's student body and enrich the academic experience of all students. Each year, Northwestern also hosts hundreds of international scholars, who contribute to more than 20 disciplines.
4913
International Students
142
Countries Represented
1609
International Scholars
Getting Started
Learn about visa options and the application process.
for faculty, staff & scholars
- Compare visas using the Visa Options Guide
- Explore Legal Permanent Residence
for host departments
- Read the General Hosting Guide
- Access Host Department Forms
Student Employment
OISS helps students apply for off-campus work authorization (permission) during their academic programs (CPT) and after completing their degrees (OPT).
Learn more about eligibility, application procedures and processing times for:
Living in the US
Find guidance and resources as you adjust to life at Northwestern and the United States.
How can we help?
Advisors are available via email, virtual advisement and scheduled appointments
News & Events
Events
Jun
10
2025
Web-In Quick Question Advising for International Students
12:00 PM
Join OISS advisors on Zoom on Tuesdays from 12pm-3pm and Fridays from 11 am-1pm to ask an international student advisor ...
Jun
13
2025
Web-In Quick Question Advising for International Students
11:00 AM
Join OISS advisors on Zoom on Tuesdays from 12pm-3pm and Fridays from 11 am-1pm to ask an international student advisor ...
Jun
17
2025
Web-In Quick Question Advising for International Students
12:00 PM
Join OISS advisors on Zoom on Tuesdays from 12pm-3pm and Fridays from 11 am-1pm to ask an international student advisor ...
News & Announcements
Welcoming Sara Thurston, PhD, as the New Director of the Office of International Student and Scholar Services
August 8, 2024
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Sara Thurston, PhD, as the new Director of the Office of International Student and Scholar Services. She brings more than 25 years of experience supporting international students and scholars to our community. Learn more about Sarah's impressive background and experience here.
USCIS announces fee increase to certain immigration benefit requests to go into effect April 1, 2024
February 21, 2024
USCIS has announced that certain fees, including the I-765 application fee for Employment Authorization and I-539 application fee to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant status, will increase on April 1, 2024. Learn more and see the new fee schedule from USCIS.