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Students at the Multicultural banquet

International Students

Northwestern hosts students from around the world. Our institution is intentional about serving the academic and spiritual needs of all students regardless of origin. Learn more about F-1 visas, important dates, and cost of attendance.

Northwestern is intentional about serving the academic and spiritual needs of all students regardless of origin. An international student who desires to attend the university in the U.S.A. without maintaining residency or citizenship can do so with an F-1 visa. Due to the extensive process required to become an international student, we recommend you contact us today!

We want to ensure you have a smooth transition with your international relocation. The process may take about a year to complete so having a knowledgeable guide can help alleviate stress. In addition to Northwestern, other entities you’ll be working with include various financial institutions, your country’s embassy, and the Department of Immigration and Naturalization Services. We encourage you to start the process early and to complete Step 1 as soon as possible.

International FAQs

Northwestern hosts numerous international students every year. Here are the most frequently asked questions...
Chinese student at the compuer
Chinese Students

Are you the parent or guardian of a Chinese student and want to connect with a counselor? Learn more about...
Graduate International Students

Are you an international student who is interested in taking graduate courses at Northwestern? Our school is...
International Student Enrollment Process

Looking to attend Northwestern's traditional undergraduate program as an international student? The process...

Do I Need an F-1 Visa?

Generally, an F-1 Visa accommodates people who are: not U.S. citizens, not legal permanent residents or refugees, or dual citizens who completed their secondary schooling abroad. You are considered an international student if you decide to study under a non-immigrant visa status.

NOTE: If you are a U.S. citizen living abroad, please apply as a first-time or transfer student. In the past, the average amount international students such as yourself have needed to supply is approximately 75% of the total cost to attend Northwestern. For the 2019–2020 school year, tuition, room and board, and other necessary expenses will be approximately $44,430. Therefore, 75% of that figure is $33,322. International students have paid these expenses through personal funds, sponsorships and outside scholarships.

Important Dates


Fall 2020 Semester:

  • July 1: Student has all paperwork completed and deposit paid
  • August 1: Final remaining balance paid
  • August 16: Arrival to MSP/UNW
  • August 17-18: Settle into dormitory/shopping/bank set-up etc.
  • August 19: International Student Orientation
  • August 21: General Orientation

Spring 2021 Semester:

  • December 1: Student has all paperwork completed and final remaining deposit paid
  • December 15: Visa must be secured
  • January 7: Arrival to MSP/UNW (Flight arrival should be during the day)
  • January 8-10: Orientation
  • January 11: Classes start

*Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, these dates may change at any time. Please be in communication with your admissions counselor for the most up-to-date information.

Fall Semester 2201 Deadlines - TBD


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We look forward to welcoming you back to Northwestern as we plan to resume on-campus, in-person classes for the fall 2020 semester.

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