Northern Illinois University
International Student and Scholar Services
Division of International Affairs

The New International Student Orientation (NISO) is a series of pre-arrival modules and webinars (online), and post-arrival orientation/welcome events and workshops (in-person). All are designed to prepare new international students for life on NIU's campus and to orient them to the range of available student support resources.

Please review the information below, make note of the dates and required items, and continue to check back as the start of the spring semester approaches. We will add more in-person events as arrangements are made.

Before You Arrive

F-1 Pre-arrival Module (Required)

• What: A series of short videos to introduce the International Student and Scholar Services office, provide you with vital information about maintaining immigration status in the U.S., and next steps.
• When: At your convenience, but must be completed by the end of the first week of classes
• How: You will receive an email inviting you to access the ISSS System. The email will contain login instructions and next steps to complete the modules and submit your Certification of Completion.

Informational Webinars

Follow links to register. Please register only one time. If you have already registered, there is no need to submit a second registration

• International Graduate Students: Are you prepared for the spring semester?
  Wednesday, December 6, 2023, from 9-11 a.m. (Central Daylight Time)
• International Undergraduate Students: Are you prepared for the spring semester?
  Thursday, December 7, 2023, from 9-11 a.m. (Central Daylight Time)

After You Arrive

Check In (Required)

• What: Verify your arrival and submit copies of your immigration documents to the ISSS office
• When: Must be completed by the end of the first week of classes
• How: In the ISSS System. Follow instructions in the F-1 Pre-Arrival Module to submit your Check-in Form.

In-person Orientation (Now Virtual Due to Weather)

• What: A session to welcome you and introduce you to NIU campus resources!
• When: Tuesday, January 9, 2024, from 9 a.m. - noon
• Zoom login information has been sent by email
• Register using the form below

Welcome Back Event

• What: Play games and make friends with new and returning international students
• When: Friday, January 12, 2024, from 3-6 p.m.
• Where: Location to be determined

Register for Jan. 9 In-person Orientation