As an international student, you will feel right at home as you contribute your perspective to the varying viewpoints that make up the Harris community.

Half of our student population comes from outside the U.S. hailing from 36 countries and speaking 38 languages. Our network of students, faculty, staff, and nearly 4000 alumni worldwide are passionate about doing good—for Harris and the world.

Before You Join Harris

See what other international student experiences are like at Harris through the following:

• Virtual Tour
   
• Admissions Blog
   
• Student Profiles 

Transition Resources

There are a lot of things you need to do before the first day of class. The Office of International Affairs (OIA) offers many resources to help make your transition as easy as possible, including:

• Admitted students information

• Student visa information

• Information for spouses, partners, and family members

• Checklist for international students coming from abroad (PDF)

• SEVIS transfer

• Changing your immigration status in the U.S.

Visa Requirements

The University is able to sponsor full-time students in F-1 or J-1 status (when eligible).

The visa application process typically begins in the Spring. OIA offers detailed information about obtaining your visa as well as the application process for admitted students. In addition, the OIA staff can answer most questions related to immigration issues, visa requirements, and travel restrictions.

Family Members

If you have a spouse or family that will be joining you, they may qualify for a dependent visa. If so, you may be able to add them to your F-1 or J-1 visa. In some cases, they may qualify for their own visa. Again, the OIA staff can answer most questions related to visas for your family.

Funding Options for International Students

Since scholarship funding at Harris is limited, we encourage international students to consider a number of different options when it comes to funding their education. 

Most international students utilize one or more of the following funding options: 

• Education loans
   
• Third party funding
   
• Part-time on campus employment
   
• Employer or local government sponsorship

Not sure where to start?

Check out our 6 Funding and Financial Aid Tips for International Students. 

Campus Life

You will find numerous living options, a rich campus life, and a university committed to welcoming international students. The Harris Office of Student Affairs as well as OIA will be your resources to the numerous services that respond to the unique needs of international students.

Welcome Session

During the summer, Harris will host a virtual welcome session for all international students on Tuesday, August 3rd from 8:30-10:30am Chicago Time. The session will include an overview from Harris staff, the Office of International Affairs, information on getting to know the campus and a space for students to get to know each other.

More information about the session and an RSVP link will be available in July.