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. Our students hail from 36 countries and speak 26 languages. Half come from outside the U.S. Our network of students, faculty, staff, and nearly 3000 alumni worldwide are passionate about doing good—for Harris and the world.

Before You Arrive in the Fall

We encourage all admitted students to visit campus, but we understand this may be a challenge for international students. If you were unable to join us in March, be sure to check out our virtual tour and read our Admissions Blog and Profiles to see what other international student experiences are like at Harris. 

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 and partners

• Checklist for international students coming from abroad

• Checklist for transferring your SEVIS record to UChicago

• Checklist for 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 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.

If you have a spouse or family that will 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.

Third Party Sponsorships

Many of Harris' international students are sponsored by a third party organization.

Students sponsored by a third party organization outside of Harris can process the payments via direct billing from the University. In order to be invoiced, the sponsors should complete a Third Party Contract with the University. The contract should be accompanied by your award letter for processing of your payments. The UChicago Bursar's Office has more information as well as the appropriate form. You can also contact Harris financial aid advisor Milvia Rodriguez.

Other Funding Options for International Students

While you must be a US citizen/national or a permanent resident to be considered for Federal Financial Aid, a wide variety of funding sources may still be available to you, depending upon your area of study, home country, and other factors. These include Alternative Loans and Student Employment.

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.

Admissions Blog Post

Estela Garcia Rosello on Moving to Chicago

Estela Garcia Rosello, the wife of a Harris student, writes about her experience moving to Chicago from Mexico City.
 

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